Characteristics of Atmospheric Particulate Matter and Metals in Industrial Sites in Korea

The distribution of metals in atmospheric particulates less than 10 µm was studied at a petrochemical refinery site and at a non-ferrous heavy metals industrial site in Ulsan, South Korea during summer and fall seasons. A high volume sampling system equipped with a 9-stage cascade impactor was utilized to collect samples, effectively separating the particulate matter into nine size ranges. Results indicated that total PM10 levels were 59 ± 14 µg/m3 in summer and 56 ± 18 µg/m3 in fall at the petrochemical site, while the non-ferrous heavy metals site recorded levels of 52 ± 14 µg/m3 in summer and 88 ± 36 µg/m3 in fall. The particle size analysis revealed a bimodal distribution, with peaks at 1.1-4.7 µm and 4.7-10 µm. Among five heavy metals analyzed, lead demonstrated size dependency, whereas zinc displayed a uniform distribution across all sizes. The data obtained are significant for evaluating pollution levels with heavy metals in industrial environments.