A combined analysis to identify airborne PM10 sources.

A two step procedure that combines an air dispersion model with a receptor model was used to identify the key sources that contribute to air levels of suspended particulate matter. The contribution to PM(10) concentrations measured at four monitoring sites in San Nicolas, Argentina, of the following sources, a thermal power plant, an integrated steel mill, motor vehicle exhaust fumes, and finally dust from paved and unpaved roads, have been analysed. Moreover, an air dispersion model was used to estimate the contribution of the thermal power plant, emissions of which have been described in depth by means of hourly fuel consumption and specific emission factors.

Monitoring trace metals in urban aerosols from Buenos Aires city. Determination by plasma-based techniques.

A study was undertaken, within the framework of a 3 years national project, to assess the content of 13 elements in airborne particulate matter collected in representative zones of the metropolitan area of Buenos Aires. The sampling strategy followed consisted in collecting simultaneously 67 samples of PM10 particulate matter in 9 sampling sites covering an area of about 30 km2 during one week. The collection was performed on ash-free fibre-glass filters using high volume samplers.