Contribution of vehicular traffic and industrial facilities to PM10 concentrations in a suburban area of Caserta (Italy)

Environ Sci Pollut Res Int. 2014 Dec;21(23):13169-74. doi: 10.1007/s11356-013-2209-5. Epub 2013 Oct 18.

Abstract

PM10 levels have been recorded in the suburban area of Caserta (Italy) from February to October 2012. The daily limit was exceeded in 13 % of the determinations, with no significant difference between weekdays and weekends. Benzo[a]pyrene concentrations were in the range 0.01-0.46 ng/m(3), thus, never exceeding the National Standard. The B(a)P-eq was 0.20 ng/m(3). PM10 peaks were associated with wind from east-northeast. The same was observed for Ca concentrations, whereas no relation with wind direction was observed for organic pollutants. The results point to a local limestone quarry and cement factory as the likely major source of PM10 pollution in the area investigated.

MeSH terms

  • Air Pollutants / analysis*
  • Environmental Monitoring
  • Humans
  • Italy
  • Particulate Matter / analysis*
  • Seasons
  • Suburban Population
  • Vehicle Emissions / analysis

Substances

  • Air Pollutants
  • Particulate Matter
  • Vehicle Emissions