Levels, Composition And Origin Of Particulate Matter (PM10 And TSP) In A Former Mining–industrial Site At The City Of Lavrion, Greece

Abstract

Levels and composition, with respect to heavy metals and metalloids, of PMIO and TSP were measured in the atmosphere of a former mining site, at the city of Lavrion, Greece, A historical metallurgy complex is re-used for establishing the Lavrion Technology and Cultural Park (L.T.C.P.). A serious problem in this direction is the severe soil contamination, resulted from the intensive mining and metallurgical activities that took place in the broader area for the last 3000 years. Among other consequences, surface polluted depositions, rich in heavy and toxic metals, are loose and easily wind eroded, resulting in transportation of particulate matter in the surrounding atmosphere. Moreover, the presence of several industrial plants in the vicinity of the site potentially deteriorates air quality. PMIO samples were collected during two periods, one during late winter (February - March 2000) and one during late summer (July - August 2000). TSP samples were collected during summer period, along with the PMIO summer sampling period, when higher particulate concentrations were expected. Samples were analyzed regarding their concentration in heavy metals and metalloids (Pb, Cd, Ni, Fe, Zn, Mn, As, Cr, Cu), Furthermore, there was an attempt to verify the pollutants origin, utilizing enrichment factors and statistical correlation. Results show that PMIO and elements concentrations are low during winter, while PMIo, TSP and elements concentrations are relatively high during summer. Elaboration of results shows that Pb, Fe, Mn, Zn and Cu may be considered of soil origin, while As, Cd, Cr and perhaps Ni present significant enrichment with respect to contaminated soil origin, indicating another possible source.