Determination of particulate matters' elemental content

Many researchers are interested in elementel content of airborne dust particulate matters based on particle size. The latest data published by European Union Environmental Agency indicated that very fine road vehicle emissions of particulate matter (PM10 and PM2,5) still constitutes the most important resource.In this study, One of the major industrial enterprises of Turkey is found in Sakarya province. Airborne particulate matters based on particle sizes were aimed to investigate experimentally. A total of 96 samples were collected between June 2009 and November 2009 period by using Isleworth MRE 113A dust sampler in the four regions of the province of Sakarya (Campus, Cark Caddesi, Ozanlar and Yesiltepe). Fitler papers having 10 ?m and 1 ?m pore sizes were used for collection of samples. After collection, samples were treated with nitric acid and perchloric acid for 1 hour by heating at 90 0C. After acid decomposition, solutions were filtered through blue band filter paper. Then, sample solutions were analysed by Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometer (FAAS) for Mn, Ni, Cu, Al, and V elementel contenty. However, quantitative determination of Al and V elements could not be determined because of their levels were below the detection limit.According to the data obtained, the Cu, Mn and Ni showed 0,88 ± 1,40 µg m-3 11,03 ± 0,45 µg m-3 and 3,19 ± 1,40 µg m-3 respectively for PM1 in the month of November at the highest levels in Ozanlar region. In November, 21,73 ± 0,65 µg m-3 and 6,07 ± 4,55 µg m-3 were recorded for Mn and Ni respectively in PM10 particles at the highest values in Campus region. Cu element was measured as 2,09 ± 6,45 µg m-3 in PM10 particles in the month of June at the highest value in Campus region.