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Mexico City aerosol study: trace element concentration and chemical composition of sulfates as a function of particle size

Conference · · Proc., Annu. Meet., Air Pollut. Control Assoc.; (United States)
OSTI ID:6028627
The objectives of this study were to determine the composition of the ionic species sulfate as a function of the aerosol size particulate, since the sulfates are found greatly in the submicrometric aerosol particles and to determine the concentration of heavy metals as a function of the aerosol size - particulate to specify which of them are found in the respirable fraction causing adverse health effects. Particle fractions collected show high amounts of sulfates and heavy metals, particularly in the particle fractions lower than 2..mu... Sulfates contained in small particles contribute greatly to the visibility degradation. Those small particles also may penetrate deeply into the human lung, and are health hazardous due to their chemical characteristics. In conclusion atmospheric aerosols in Mexico City are affecting visibility and human health -- greatly, so Mexican Government should reinforce its efforts in developing an adequate policy to protect human health and - eventually solve our increasing environmental problems.
Research Organization:
Univ. Autonoma, Metroloitana
OSTI ID:
6028627
Report Number(s):
CONF-840612-
Conference Information:
Journal Name: Proc., Annu. Meet., Air Pollut. Control Assoc.; (United States) Journal Volume: 4
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English