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Sources and elemental composition of aerosol in Pasadena, California, by energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence

Journal Article · · Adv. Environ. Sci. Technol.; (United States)
OSTI ID:6572275

Data on the elemental composition of particulate matter obtained with an automatic X-ray fluorescence spectrometer in Pasadena, California, are analyzed with special reference to the sources of nine elements consistently measurable with reasonable accuracy: Ca, Ti, V, Mn, Fe, Ni, Zn, Br, and Pb. It is found that gasoline-engine exhaust is the chief source of the Br and Pb. Particulate matter present in the gasoline-engine exhaust contributed 5.35 micrograms/cu m on the average to the aerosol mass. Soil is the main source of the Ca, Ti, Mn, and Fe and contributes 8.35 micrograms/cu m on the average to the aerosol mass during sampling. Vanadium, Ni, and Zn originate from at least three further sources not identified. All elements measured show strong concentration fluctuations (orders of magnitude) on a short (2 hr or less) time scale.

Research Organization:
Ford Motor Co., Dearborn, MI
OSTI ID:
6572275
Journal Information:
Adv. Environ. Sci. Technol.; (United States), Journal Name: Adv. Environ. Sci. Technol.; (United States) Vol. 9; ISSN AESTC
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English