Size distribution, chemical characterization and health effects of atmospheric particles collected from kutahya region

Size segregated particulate matter samples were collected for 10 days periods in summer and winter seasons, by high volume cascade impactor samplers from two sampling stations Kütahya city, and Tavşanlı province - Göbel district which are affected by two thermal power plants and many other ceramic factories located very close distance to city center. Chemical characterization of particulate matter samples determined by analyzing trace elements, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), n-alkanes, carboxylic acids and levoglucosan, and detailed genotoxic properties of particulates were also analyzed for selected samples. Electron spin resonance (ESR) analyzes were carried out to determine hydroxyl radical forming potential by means of oxidative potential of particulates. By the obtained results; organic compound concentrations and also anthropogenic elements such as lead, selenium, arsenic, cadmium and Sulphur are arising by the decreasing particulate aerodynamic diameter. Increasing concentrations of anthropogenic elements and organic compounds in winter samples with respect to summer samples, and genotoxic effects, in relation. Oksidative potentials of particulate samples show significant correlations with copper, zinc, aluminium, iron and chromium.