Characterisation of individual aerosol particles for atmospheric and cultural heritage studies

Abstract

Microanalysis of individual particles allows straightforward and advanced characterisation of environmental samples. The most obvious technique to study large micro-particle populations is still electron probe X-ray microanalysis (EPXMA). Recently, technical and methodological progress has been made to remedy some of the limitations of conventional EPXMA, as, for example, in the detection of low Z-elements. Recent examples of the use of EPXMA in various environmental fields are presented, namely concerning atmospheric deposition of micropollutants and nutrients to the sea, characterisation of aerosols in the context of their effect on Global Change (remote continental and biogenic aerosols) and aerosol deposition and soiling of paintings in museums.