Vehicle-derived emissions and pollution on the road Autovia 2 investigated by rock-magnetic parameters: a case of study from Argentina

DEBORA C. MARIÉ; MARCOS A. E. CHAPARRO; CLAUDIA S.G. GOGORZA; ANA M. NAVAS; ANA M. SINITO

Studia Geophysica et Geodaetica

Springer

Lugar: Praga; Año: 2010 vol. 54 p. 135 - 152

0039-3169

In this work, we carried out a preliminary study of traffic-derived pollutants from primary sources (vehicles), and on roads (paved area), road borders and surroundings areas. The study is focussed on the identification, distribution and concentration of pollutants and magnetic carriers. The results of magnetic parameters and their analyses suggest that the magnetic signal of vehicle-derived emissions is controlled by a magnetite-like phase, and magnetic grain size estimations reveal the presence of fine particles (0.1-5 µm) that can be inhaled and therefore are dangerous to human health. Results of magnetic susceptibility (about 175 x10-5 SI) show higher magnetic concentration, magnetic enhancement, in the central area of the tollbooth line that is related to higher traffic. In addition, magnetic susceptibility on several roadside soils along 120 km were computed for generating a contour map, such 2-D mapping shows higher magnetic values (100-200 x10-5 SI) near the edge of the road indicating that magnetic particles emitted by vehicles are accumulated and mainly concentrated within a distance of a couple of meters (1-2 m) along the road. In consequence, magnetic susceptibility parameter seems to be a suitable indicator of traffic-related pollution. Non-magnetic studies show an enrichment of some trace elements such as Ba, Cr, Cu, Zn and Pb associated to traffic pollution. Furthermore, statistical correlations between content of toxic trace metals and magnetic variables support the use of magnetic parameters as potential proxies in this study area