Seasonal variations of PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations and inhalation exposure from PM-bound metals (As, Cd, Ni): First studies in Poznań (Poland)

Abstract

Results of measurements of suspended particulate matter concentrations - PM 10 and PM 2.5 (ambient particles with aerodynamic diameter not greater than 10 and 2.5 μm respectively) in Poznań, Poland in years 2010-2016 alongside the results of cancer risk assessment analysis in relation to inhalation exposure to selected heavy metals: As, Cd and Ni related to PM 10 are presented in this work. The data originated from measurements (4 sampling sites) of Voivodeship Inspectorate of Environmental Protection (VIEP). Average yearly concentrations of PM in 2010-2016 are displayed together with an analysis of its seasonal variability. In order to determine the cancer risk a methodology of risk assessment of the United States Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA) is used. Average yearly concentrations of PM 10 ranged from 21 μg/m 3 in 2010 at the measurement station on Szymanowskiego street to 39 μg/m 3 in 2016 at measurement stations on Polanka and Dąbrowskiego streets. Mean concentrations in the heating season were twice higher than in non-heating season at stations on Szymanowskiego street, Polanka street and Dąbrowskiego street. In the case of heavy metals, the highest average seasonal concentrations were: 3.34 ng/m 3 for As in the heating season of 2016 (Chwiałkowskiego street), 0.92 ng/m 3 for Cd in the heating season of 2012 (Chwiałkowskiego street), 10.82 ng/m 3 for Ni in the heating season of 2016 (Szymanowskiego street). We have shown that the presence of As in PM in Poznań is connected with fossil fuel emission from home fireplaces. Road traffic and industry were a potential source of Cd and Ni. The highest risk values for residents of Poznań were acquired for average concentrations in the heating seasons from 2012-2016 of As and they were: 24.27·10 -6 for children, 11.87·10 -6 for women and 9.94·10 -6 for men. Received risk value on an acceptable level according to US EPA is 1·10 -6