Elemental composition of ambient particulate matter collected at a heavily polluted industrial region

In the context of increasing industrialization, air pollution has emerged as a critical environmental issue, particularly in heavily populated industrial regions. The objective of this study was to investigate the elemental composition of ambient particulate matter (PM) in a specific industrial zone, analyzing the contributions of various emissions sources to trace element concentrations. Methodologically, the research was conducted through the collection and analysis of PM samples from the targeted polluted area, emphasizing the measurement of trace elements and the characterization of particulate size distribution. The results indicated significant variations in trace element levels, correlating them with anthropogenic emissions from industrial activities such as fuel combustion, chemical manufacturing, and vehicular exhaust. The findings also suggested that PM size fractions from fine to coarse exhibited different associations with toxic elements, which are predominantly found in finer particles. Additionally, a noteworthy relationship between trace element concentrations and climatic variables, such as temperature and precipitation, was observed. These results underscore the importance of monitoring air quality in industrial regions and highlight the potential health risks associated with airborne particulate matter.