Composition Of Dust Research Articles

Calculation model of enjoyment of dust particles by swirking flow in gas flowes

An analysis of the reasons for the formation of deposits in the flue ducts of aspiration systems was carried out. Problems have been noted in removing deposits with compressed air. The purpose of the work is to solve the problems of aspiration systems and reduce the formation of dust deposits in gas ducts. This is possible due to the swirling of the compressed air flow when purging the gas duct. Despite significant pressure losses when organizing flow swirl, compressed air consumption is reduced by 20–40%. A computational model of the entrainment of dust particles by a swirling flow in gas ducts is presented. To describe the physical model of the movement of a dust particle in a swirling gas flow flowing in a gas duct with a circular cross-section, polar coordinates are used. Dependencies have been deter-mined to determine the value of the average axial velocity of the swirling flow required to move a particle along the gas duct. A diagram of the coordinate axes and forces acting on the particle is presented. The forces acting on the dust particle and its connections with the inner surface of the flue are replaced by the reaction of the flue wall. By decomposing the wall reaction into tangential and normal components, differential equations were obtained that describe the motion of the particle. The dust particle is significantly influenced by the forces of resistance to flow around the gas flow Fμ, the friction force on the wall of the gas duct Ffr, the weight of the particle P, the normal reaction of the wall of the gas duct N. Analysis of the fractional composition of various dusts contained in gases aspirated from the equipment of the metallurgical industry and the production of electrode materials showed that For these dusts, the optimal flow is a weak swirl of intensity W*= 0.5–0.8. This swirling intensity can be achieved by introducing a flow of compressed air when blowing at an angle of 36–48°.

The role of refractive indices in measuring mineral dust with high-spectral-resolution infrared satellite sounders: application to the Gobi Desert

Abstract. Mineral dust significantly influences the Earth's climate system by affecting the radiative balance through the emission, absorption and scattering of solar and terrestrial radiation. Estimating the dust radiative effect remains challenging due to the lack of detailed information on the physical and chemical properties of dust. High-spectral-resolution instruments in the infrared (IR) spectrum, such as the Infrared Atmospheric Sounding Instrument (IASI), have demonstrated the ability to quantify these aerosol properties. A crucial parameter for characterizing mineral dust from space is the complex refractive index (CRI), as it links the dust's physical and chemical properties to its optical properties. This paper examines the impact of six prior laboratory CRI datasets to improve the characterization of dust microphysical properties using IASI. The CRIs include older measurements obtained through the classical pellet method, commonly employed in mineral dust applications, as well as newer datasets that incorporate the latest advancements in laboratory measurement techniques for aerosol generation. These datasets are tested on IASI measurements during a dust storm event over the Gobi Desert in May 2017. We evaluate the sensitivity of IASI to different CRI datasets using the Atmospheric Radiation Algorithm for High-Spectral Resolution Measurements from Infrared Spectrometer (ARAHMIS) radiative transfer algorithm and explore the datasets' impact on retrieving size distribution parameters by mapping their spatial distributions. The results indicate that the laboratory CRI datasets decrease the total error in the covariance matrix by 30 %. In addition, we assess the ability to accurately reconstruct IASI detections and the extent to which we can retrieve the microphysical properties of dust particles. The choice of CRI significantly impacts the accuracy of dust detection and characterization from satellite observations. Notably, datasets that incorporate recent aerosol generation techniques with higher spectral resolution and samples from the case study region show improved compatibility with IASI observations. The outcomes of this research emphasize two key points: the crucial link between chemical composition of dust and its optical properties and the importance of considering the specific composition of the CRI dataset for improved retrieval of the microphysical parameters. Furthermore, this study highlights the critical role of ongoing enhancements in CRI measurement approaches, as well as the potential of high-spectral-resolution infrared sounders for aerosol atmospheric investigation and for understanding the radiative impacts of sounders.

Modeling, assessment and characterization of soiling on PV Technologies. Toward a Better understanding of the Relation between dust deposition and performance losses

Soiling is a critical, site-specific challenge that affects the performance and economic viability of photovoltaic power plants. This study evaluates the effectiveness of an outdoor microscopy method under the specific climatic conditions and dust composition of the Mid-south region of Morocco. Semi-empirical models were developed to correlate the Soiling Coverage Index with losses in optical and electrical performance. Additionally, a comprehensive analysis of local dust, encompassing its chemical composition, morphology, and size distribution, was conducted. Results indicate quartz as the predominant mineral in Benguerir city’s dust particles, with diameters ranging from 0 μm to 26 μm. Additionally, following a 2-week exposure with no rainfall, a dust density of 2.5 g/m2 accumulated on the deployed glass coupons, resulting in a soiling ratio of 6.9 % and a relative transmittance loss of 15.19 %. The surface coverage index, as calculated by the outdoor microscope, was 9.16 %. Furthermore, the evaluation of this metric revealed strong positive correlations (r2 = 0.95 to 0.99) with key soiling indicators such as dust density, soiling ratio, and transmittance loss. These findings underscore the efficacy of the outdoor microscope as a fast, low-cost, and reliable soiling monitoring sensor, offering valuable insights for future monitoring and mitigation efforts.

Multiwavelength high-resolution polarimetric imaging of second-generation disc around post-AGB binary IRAS 08544–4431 with SPHERE

ABSTRACT Exploring the formation and evolution of second-generation circumbinary discs around evolved binary stars, such as post-asymptotic giant branch (post-AGB) and post-red giant branch binaries, provides valuable insights into the complex binary interaction process that concludes the red-giant phase of evolution in these systems. Additionally, it offers a novel opportunity to investigate the formation of second-generation planets within dusty discs surrounding evolved stars. We present a pilot multiwavelength polarimetric imaging study of the post-AGB binary system IRAS 08544–4431 using the European Southern Observatory–Very Large Telescope/Spectro-Polarimetric High-contrast Exoplanet Research (VLT/SPHERE) instrument. This study is focused on optical V- and $I^{\prime }$-band Zurich Imaging Polarimeter (ZIMPOL) data to complement near-infrared (near-IR) H-band IRDIS data presented previously. The study aims to investigate the dust scattering properties and surface morphology of the post-AGB circumbinary disc as a function of wavelength. We successfully resolved the extended disc structure of IRAS 08544–4431, revealing a complex disc morphology, high polarimetric disc brightness (up to $\sim$1.5 %), and significant forward scattering at optical wavelengths. Additionally, we found that the disc shows a grey polarimetric colour in both optical and near-IR. The findings highlight similarities between post-AGB circumbinary discs and protoplanetary discs, suggesting submicron-sized porous aggregates as the dominant surface dust composition, and indicating potential warping within the disc. However, further expansion of the multiwavelength analysis to a larger sample of post-AGB binary systems, as well as high-resolution observations of dust continuum and gas emission, is necessary to fully explore the underlying structure of post-AGB circumbinary discs and associated physical mechanisms.

Virtual laboratories for study technologies of environmental protection

Abstract This work is devoted to the use of virtual work for teaching bachelors in technologies of environmental protection. An analysis of publications in the field of using virtual laboratories in universities was carried out. The use of virtual laboratory work supports modern approaches to education, stimulates the learning process and creates conditions for more effective mastery of the material. The article describes an example of the development of laboratory work to determine the parameters of the dispersed composition of dust. Virtual laboratory work is developed as a web application, has a user-friendly interface, all data is saved into a database. Students can work at their own pace, repeat experiments, and adapt their approach to learning. The presented virtual laboratory is relevant to use in distance learning.

Dust Pollution in Construction Sites in Point-Pattern Housing Development

Construction in cities and agglomerations is one of the main sources of air pollution in most countries in the world. Fine dust particles, PM0.5–PM10, which form as a result of construction processes, are among the most dangerous pollutants. With the increase in the volume of point-pattern housing development in cities, the task of maintaining clean air and environmental conditions becomes important. This requires research, the monitoring of dust emissions throughout the entire construction period and the development of design solutions based on the results obtained. The study examines the determination of the dispersed composition of dust generated on a construction site. A graphical representation of the dispersed composition is given by constructing integral curves on a logarithmic grid and approximating them using two-link and three-link splines. The gravimetric measurement method was used to analyze the concentration of dust in the air released during construction work near residential areas. Dust analysis at the construction site revealed significant differences in particle size that cannot be explained by statistical errors alone. The reasons for this are both working conditions and climatic factors, including humidity and wind intensity. In this regard, it is preferable to use models that take into account random processes instead of traditional deterministic methods to study the dust that shapes during construction.

Quantification of Airborne Particulate Matter and Trace Element Deposition on Hedera helix and Senecio cineraria Leaves.

In both developed and developing countries, atmospheric pollution with particulate matter (PM) remains an important issue. Despite the health effects of poor air quality, studies on air pollution are often limited by the high costs of continuous monitoring and the need for extensive sampling. Furthermore, these particles are often enriched with potentially toxic trace elements and organic pollutants. This study evaluates both the composition of atmospheric dust accumulated during a certain timespan on Hedera helix and Senecio cineraria leaves and the potential for their use as bio-monitors. The test plants were positioned near automatic air quality monitoring stations at four different sites with respectively high, moderate and low traffic intensity. The gravimetric deposition of PM10 and PM2.5 on leaves was compared with data recorded by the monitoring stations and related to the weather conditions reported by Argentina's National Meteorological Service. To determine the presence of trace elements enriching the PM deposited on leaves, two analytical techniques were applied: XRF (not destructive) and ICP (destructive). The results indicated that only in the unpaved street location (site 2) did PM10 and PM2.5 concentrations (90 µg m-3 and 9 µg m-3) in the air exceed more than five times WHO guidelines (15 µg m-3 and 5 µg m-3). However, several trace elements were found to be enriching PM deposited on leaves from all sites. Predominantly, increased concentrations of Cd, Cu, Ti, Mn, Zn and Fe were found, which were associated with construction, traffic and unpaved street sources. Furthermore, based on its capability to sequester above 2800 µg cm-2 of PM10, 2450 µg cm-2 of PM2.5 and trace elements, Senecio cineraria can be taken into consideration for adoption as a bio-monitor or even for PM mitigation.

Spatial distribution, sources, and health risk assessment of elements in road dust (

This research delves into the spatial distribution of 17 elements (Al, B, Ba, Bi, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Li, Mg, Mn, Ni, Pb, Sr, Te, and Zn) within the < 20 μm size fraction of road dust samples collected from 177 locations within 65 grid cells (each 5×5 km2) throughout Delhi in February 2021. Notably, Fe and Al emerge as the predominant elements in the road dust samples. Using Principal Component Analysis (PCA), Absolute Principal Component Score (APCS), and Multiple Linear Regression (MLR) techniques, it is observed that crustal sources (58%), non-exhaust vehicular emissions (21%), and two distinct industrial origins (2% and 19%) are major contributors to the road dust composition. Bi and Te exhibited the highest geo-accumulation indices, indicating significant pollution levels, with notably high contamination factors, surpassing a contamination degree of 24. Elements like Cd posed the highest potential ecological risk, dominating 95% of the risk assessment. The hazard index analysis highlighted that urban populations, especially children, face the greatest risk through ingestion, followed by dermal exposure, and least through inhalation. Notably, Cd, Pb, Cr, and Ni were identified as elements posing a very high carcinogenic risk to the general populace.

Indoor dust composition of university laboratories and potential health risks in Pahang, Malaysia

Indoor dust composition of university laboratories and potential health risks in Pahang, Malaysia

Traceability and dispersion of highly toxic soluble phases from historical mine tailings: insights from Pb isotope systematics

Dispersion of potentially toxic elements associated with efflorescent crusts and mine tailings materials from historical mine sites threaten the environment and human health. Limited research has been done on traceability from historical mining sites in arid and semi-arid regions. Pb isotope systematics was applied to decipher the importance of identifying the mixing of lead sources involved in forming efflorescent salts and the repercussions on traceability. This research assessed mine waste (sulfide-rich and oxide-rich tailings material and efflorescent salts) and street dust from surrounding settlements at a historical mining site in northwestern Mexico, focusing on Pb isotope composition. The isotope data of tailings materials defined a trending line (R2 = 0.9); the sulfide-rich tailings materials and respective efflorescent salts yielded less radiogenic Pb composition, whereas the oxide-rich tailings and respective efflorescent salts yielded relatively more radiogenic compositions, similar to the geogenic component. The isotope composition of street dust suggests the dispersion of tailings materials into the surroundings. This investigation found that the variability of Pb isotope composition in tailings materials because of the geochemical heterogeneity, ranging from less radiogenic to more radiogenic, can add complexity during environmental assessments because the composition of oxidized materials and efflorescent salts can mask the geogenic component, potentially underestimating the influence on the environmental media.

Extraction of arsenic from fine dust of copper smelters by reduction roasting with natural gas

One of the current trends in the complex processing of fine dust from copper smelters is their direct leaching with sulfuric acid. As practical results show, high reliable technological parameters are not achieved due to the high content of arsenic in dust. During sulfuric acid leaching of dust, arsenic is distributed between the lead cake and the solution at a ratio of 40 and 60%, respectively. The redistribution of arsenic between leaching products significantly reduces the technological performance and leads to the accumulation of arsenic in the technological scheme. The paper presents the results of comprehensive studies of the elemental and phase composition of fine dust from one of the copper smelters in Kazakhstan. In the initial dust, along with the main phases presented in the form of lead and zinc sulfate, the following typical components were found: oxides of copper, lead, zinc and copper and zinc ferrites. Arsenic is found in two forms—As(III) and As(V). The laboratory installation and technique for conducting reduction roasting of dust with natural gas are presented. The influence of roasting duration, temperature and natural gas consumption on the extraction of arsenic from dust was studied. It has been established that almost complete, up to 99%, extraction of arsenic from dust is achieved with optimal technological roasting parameters: duration τ = 40 min.; natural gas consumption is 1.5 times higher than the stoichiometrically required amount for the reduction of As2O5, and temperature 500 °C.

The influence of cement bypass dust composition on the properties of slag-based mortars

Research on sustainable alternatives to Ordinary Portland Cement aims to reduce global CO2 emissions from cement production. Utilizing byproducts or waste materials to create sustainable binders is a promising approach. Cement bypass dust is being investigated as a potential activator of pozzolanic materials, however there is large variability in the composition of this dust and research is necessary to understand the differences for the potential application of the waste material. The objective of this work was to compare two bypass dusts where ternary and binary mortars of bypass dust (50 %, 30 %, 10 %, 0 % and by weight), cement (100 %, 80 %, 40 % and by weight), and blast furnace slag (50 %, 30 %, 10 % and 0 % by weight), were produced. Mortars were all ambient cured and a water to binder ratio of 0.6 was maintained for all mixes. The results showed that one bypass dust had a much higher free lime and chloride content, whereas the other had more calcite and sulphates. Compressive strengths of the 1:1 slag and sulphate rich bypass dust were of 18.6 MPa at 90 days, and lime rich bypass dust achieved 15.1 MPa. X-ray diffraction and thermogravimetric analysis revealed that sulphate rich bypass dust formed more ettringite, enhancing strength, while lime rich bypass dust formed more portlandite due to its lime content. Chemical shrinkage results showed volumetric expansion at early ages for both bypass dusts with lime rich bypass dust swelling up to 0.057 ml/g and sulphate rich bypass dust up to 0.015 ml/. Despite this, both bypass dust binders exhibited higher shrinkage strains over a 150-day period compared to cement, where sulphate rich and lime rich bypass dust had strain percentages of 0.225 % and 0.228 %, respectively. This work found the main differences between the composition of two bypass dusts, and it was found that these materials can be reused to fabricate cementless binders.

Multiband polarimetric imaging of HD 34700 with SCExAO/CHARIS

Abstract We present Subaru/SCExAO + CHARIS broadband (JHK) integral field spectroscopy of HD 34700 A in polarized light. CHARIS has the unique ability to obtain polarized integral field images at 22 wavelength channels in broadband, as the incoming light is first split into different polarization states before passing though the lenslet array. We recover the transition disk around HD 34700 A in multiband polarized light in our data. We combine our polarized intensity data with previous total intensity data to examine the scattering profiles, scattering phase functions and polarized fraction of the disk at multiple wavelengths. We also carry out 3D Monte Carlo radiative transfer simulations of the disk using MCFOST, and make qualitative comparisons between our models and data to constrain dust grain properties. We find that in addition to micron-sized dust grains, a population of sub-micron grains is needed to match the surface brightness in polarized light and polarized fraction. This could indicate the existence of a population of small grains in the disk, or it could be caused by Mie theory simulations using additional small grains to compensate for sub-micron structures of real dust aggregates. We find models that match the polarized fraction of the data but the models do not apply strong constraints on the dust grain type or compositions. We find no models that can match all observed properties of the disk. More detailed modeling using realistic dust aggregates with irregular surfaces and complex structures is required to further constrain the dust properties.

Analysis of carbon and nitrogen from atmospheric sources by bulk deposition sampling at various locations in Germany

Atmospheric deposition of particulate matter is an important indicator of air pollution and a significant factor in material surface fouling. The elemental composition of this nutrient-containing dust depends largely on the exposure region and time as well as on climate. Therefore, in this paper we report an analysis of atmospheric pollutions with a self-made low-cost bulk deposition sampler directed at sampling deposition via air transport and rainfall. We used the device in diverse environments - thus comparing an urban region, an area surrounded by forest and an area mainly dominated by agriculture. The total organic carbon (TOC) and total nitrogen (TN) amounts were selected as indicator parameters and analyzed in a biweekly rhythm for three and a half and two years, respectively. The TOC value responded to particulate matter in the urban area, especially significant were the influences of the New Year's firework in urban and pollen in the rural forest area. In contrast, the TN value was more under the influence of the nitrogen emissions in the agriculture-dominated area. However, the TN value did not correlate with the NOx values in the urban area because the atmospheric nitrogen emissions in the city might originate from various emission sources. Summarizing, the TOC and TN values of the self-made low-cost bulk deposition sampler were in good agreement with environmental events of their immediate surrounding. Moreover, the selected containers and sampling procedures are universally applicable to monitor and analyze organic as well as inorganic parameters (e.g. metal ions) of atmospheric deposition.

Research on particle size distribution and composition of road deposit dust in Xi'an: From the perspective of non-exhaust emissions

Road dust, containing tire-road wear particles, atmospheric dust, or construction-related particles, contaminates road environments and poses a health hazard when inhaled by humans. To further explore the particle size and composition of road deposit dust, this study collects these particles in Xi'an, considering various road grades, materials, service conditions, sections, and locations. The collected particles undergo electron microscopy, laser particle size, thermal, mass spectrometry, infrared spectroscopy, and inductively coupled plasma analyses. Qualitative and quantitative analysis of the particles has been conducted, leading to the following conclusions: Asphalt & tire contribute 8.5% of the road deposit dust, while wear from calcium carbonate accounts for approximately 30%. The average particle size on urban roads (392 μm) is 1.25 times that of rural roads (312 μm). The smaller particles on rural roads are more easily resuspended and inhaled, posing health risks and requiring more attention. Brake zones, which often have 1.4 times the metal content compared to mid-sections, including potentially carcinogenic chromium (Cr), should receive focused watering and adsorption due to brake zone where is also at intersections and pedestrian crossing. New roads, which generate 3-6 times more organic matter than old roads, requires continuous cleaning after opening to traffic. Surface-blocked asphalt concrete (AC) pavements, as their lack of pores can lead to easy re-suspension of deposited particles due to tire-road interaction should also be attention. This study aims to contribute to the field of traffic-related dust pollution cleaning strategies and non-exhaust emissions mitigation measures in the future.

Unraveling the composition and impact of atmospheric dust on the Taj Mahal

Unraveling the composition and impact of atmospheric dust on the Taj Mahal

Features of the chemical composition of fine suspended particles in the atmospheric air of residential and industrial zones of the city of Sibay, Republic of Bashkortostan

Introduction. Atmospheric particulate matter as a negative environmental factor can be a significant hazard depending on their size, morphometric and physicochemical characteristics. The purpose of the study. To investigate the elemental composition of finely dispersed suspended particles in the atmospheric air of the industrial zones of the mining center of the Bashkir Trans-Urals - the city of Sibay. Materials and methods. Air sampling was carried out in the industrial area of ​​Sibay using an AVA-3-240/180-01 automatic three-channel air aspirator with AFA-VP-20 filters. Microscopy of samples and determination of the elemental composition of dust emissions were carried out at the Interdisciplinary Center “Analytical Microscopy” of the Kazan Federal University (Kazan) on a universal analytical complex for scanning field emission electron microscopy Merlin (Carl Zeiss). Results. On electron micrographs, there were identified particles of various sizes, mostly round in shape with clear edges, located solitary. In the automatic mode of processing the spectra, the peaks of the elements in the spectrum were automatically recognized and identified. In addition to carbon and oxygen, the calcium, iron, silicon, potassium, aluminium, copper, sulphur, sodium and magnesium are main chemical constituents of particulate matter encountered at all sampling points. Zinc was present in dust samples at three points, scandium, titanium, cobalt, barium, and manganese – only at one point. The possibility of the relation between the content of fine particles in the air and the increased incidence of cardiovascular, bronchopulmonary diseases, including asthma, in the population of Sibay is discussed. Limitations. The study of the elemental composition of fine dust in the city of Sibay was carried out using atmospheric air samples taken at 5 points located in residential and industrial areas. Conclusion. The increased content of fine particles in the atmospheric air of the city of Sibay increases the risks of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, as well as other health abnormalities, in the population permanently residing near industrial zones. The obtained data on the parameters of dust particles are the basis for assessing the share contribution of industrial enterprises to air pollution and making management decisions to improve the environmental situation in the industrial center of the mining region.

Prevalence of nano-sized coal mine dust in North and Central Appalachian coal mines – Insights from SEM-EDS imaging

The increasing prevalence of coal mine dust-related lung diseases in coal miners calls for urgent and meticulous scrutiny of airborne respirable coal mine dust (RCMD), specifically focusing on particles at the nano-level. This necessity is driven by expanding research, including the insights revealed in this paper, that establish the presence and significantly increased toxicity of nano-sized coal dust particles in contrast to their larger counterparts. This study presents an incontrovertible visual proof of these tiny particulates in samples collected from underground mines, utilizing advanced techniques such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). The intricate elemental composition of nano-sized coal dust identified through EDS analysis reveals the presence of elements such as silica and iron, which are known to contribute to lung pathologies when inhaled over prolonged periods. The outcomes of the statistical analyses reveal significant relationships between particle size and elemental composition, highlighting that smaller particles tend to have higher carbon content, while larger particles exhibit increased concentrations of elements like silica and aluminum. These analyses underscore the complex interactions within nano-sized coal dust, providing critical insights into their behavior, transport, and health impacts. The nano-sized coal dust could invade the alveoli, carrying these toxic elements from where they are impossible to exhale. The revelation of nano-sized coal dust's existence and the associated health hazards necessitate their incorporation into the regulatory framework governing the coal mining industry. This study lays the groundwork for heightened protective measures for miners, urging the invention of state-of-the-art sampling instruments, comprehensive physicochemical profiling of RCMD nanoparticles, and the pursuit of groundbreaking remedies to neutralize their toxic impact. These findings advocate for a paradigm shift in how the coal mining industry views and handles particulate matter, proposing a re-evaluation of occupational health standards and a call to action for protecting coal miners worldwide.

Usage of coke dry quenching dust to improve coke mean size

ABSTRACT Improving the mean size of surface coke is an important subject in coke-making process. Focusing on usage of crushed inertinite, we investigated on addition of coke dry quenching (CDQ) dust in coal blend in different compositions. The effect of addition of CDQ dust on coke quality including coke mean size, changes in size fractions and coke CSR was studied. CDQ dust acts as crushed inertinite and helps in minimizing the decrease in coke strength occurred because of small cracks generated during carbonization. These cracks are generated because of different contraction ratio of vitrinite and inertinite. After taking plant trials with varied CDQ dust composition from 1% to 3% in coal blend, 1% CDQ dust usage in coal blend revealed as the optimized percentage for achieving higher mean size.

Identification of Technosols formed from industrial dust in the area of Yazd city (Central Iran) by ground-based radiometry

Intensive industrial development in the form of metallurgical plants and quarries for mining of mineral resources in the vicinity of the city of Yazd resulted in significant dustiness of the ground layer of atmosphere and accumulation of industrial dust on the soil surface. At the locations of alloy steel production facilities, dust composition was dominated by particulate matter less than 1 μm (PM1), while near sand quarries, dust particles less than 10 μm (PM10) were predominant. The dust from these sources also differs in chemical composition (iron/silicon content ratio, pH). Registration with a pyranometer with a dark green filter with transmittance at a wavelength of 550 nanometers with a time interval of 20 seconds at a speed of 30 km/h during the movement along the specified routes allowed authors to identify zones with a stable increased content of particles of different sizes in the near-surface atmosphere. Sampling soil pits in these zones confirmed the presence on their surface of layers of dust deposits with a thickness of more than 5 cm, which allows them to be attributed to Technosols in accordance with the WRB soil classification. The soil map of the research area was compiled at a scale of 1 : 25 000 with the reflection of Technosols participation in the soil patterns. According to the map, more than three quarters of the study area are soil complexes including Technosols. Arid climatic conditions of the region lead to the accumulation of dust on the soil surface, which are practically not transformed and not removed from the soil, which results in their degradation and deterioration of the environmental conditions. Dust accumulation on the soil surface affects the state of vegetation cover of the region, which serves as a basis for indirect satellite indication of dusting zones. The method of revealing the dust layer on the soil surface based on the assessment of dustiness of the near-surface atmosphere using pyranometer can serve as a good complement to remote sensing methods.