Total gaseous mercury in Québec (Canada) in 1998

Abstract

The main objectives of this paper were to report total gaseous mercury (TGM) concentrations at four stations along the St. Lawrence River in 1998 and to give some insights regarding their fate. The TGM network stretches from latitudes 45° N to 50° N. TGM and ozone concentrations (used as complementary pollutant) were presented. The median TGM concentrations throughout the network varied from 1.62 to 1.79 ng/m 3. Sites close to Montréal had larger TGM concentrations. Montréal surroundings appeared to be a source of TGM. The TGM concentrations were maximum in wintertime and minimum in summertime throughout the sites. However, the diurnal variations were site specific. St. Anicet and L’Assomption were more variable in terms of large concentrations, whereas Mingan and Villeroy were more variable in terms of low concentrations. Ozone and TGM concentrations were positively correlated at some sites (Villeroy, Mingan and St. Anicet) whereas they were not at L’Assomption (closest site to Montréal). Local TGM and ozone precursor sources would affect the correlation.