Chemical footprints of harmattan dust and traffic corridor particulates monitored at two environmentally distinct geopolitical zones in Nigeria.

Harmattan dust and traffic-related pollution have been a serious environmental concern in the West African sub-region. In order to further contribute to the understanding of ambient levels of atmospheric pollution and chemical composition in the region, this study monitored harmattan dust and traffic-related particulate matter at four locations across southwestern (Ile-Ife) and north-western (Zaria) geo-political zones of Nigeria. The collected samples were characterized for their chemical composition using Energy-Dispersive X-Ray Fluorescence spectrometer equipped with an optimized secondary target x-ray excitation conditions (Al, CaF, Fe, Ge, Zr, Mo, Ag, AlO).