Characterization of hazardous solid waste (soot) accumulated in tailpipe of typical Indian share autos

Abstract

In this communication, accumulated soot from typical Indian share autos and buses has been characterized using FE-SEM coupled with EDS and FTIR spectroscopy for its toxicity level. Analysis reveals the size of spherical-shaped primary particles to be less than 40 nm, which agglomerate to form fractal-like structures. In share autos, average weight percentage of heavy metals such as Cr, Fe, Cu and Pt (except Zn) is higher than that in buses; trace elements include noncarbon elements. FTIR results suggest that share autos contaminate soil of paved and unpaved roadways to a greater extent and at a faster rate compared to buses.