Elemental content in atmospheric particulate from Córdoba, Argentina, by synchrotron radiation total reflection (SR-TXRF)

CARRERAS, H., WANNAZ, E., PEREZ, C.A. PIGNATA, M.L.

Campinas, Brasil

Congreso; 16 Reunión Annual de Usuarios LNLS; 2006

National Synchrotron Light Laboratory

  The investigation of regional emissions and composition of atmospheric particulate is very important to understand and interpret the exposure situation. The aim of the study was to analyze the composition of atmospheric particulate collected in Córdoba and to estimate the emission sources. Another goal was to asses the lichen Usnea amblyoclada as a bioacumulator. TR-XRF was used to analyze the elemental composition on filters and lichen thalli. The variability of atmospheric particulate was explained by 4 factors associated with industrial emissions, foundries, soil dust and vehicular traffic. The same analysis performed on lichens data reveals a good correspondence with filters data. It was possible to determine the composition of the atmospheric particulate and to identify the emission sources. Besides, it was proves that the lichen U. amblyoclada can be employed in biomonitoring programs.