Assessment of metallic content, pollution, and sources of road dust in the city of białystok (Poland)

Abstract

This study used flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS) to determine the metallic content in 69 samples of street dust collected in various environments (viz., streets with heavy traffic, streets in residential neighborhoods, and streets near green areas and parks) of Białystok, Poland, during 2018. In descending order of average concentration, the measured metals were Fe (2,335 mg kg−1), Zn (68.99 mg kg−1), Mn (68.62 mg kg−1), Cu (16.37 mg kg−1), Pb (11.42 mg kg−1), Cr (9.12 mg kg−1), and Ni (5.20 mg kg−1). Only Zn and Cu exhibited concentrations exceeding the geochemical background levels for Polish soil. We mapped the metallic concentrations in the samples to evaluate the spatial distribution of these elements and identified proximity to main road junctions with high traffic as a major factor. Multivariate statistical analysis (Pearson correlation, cluster analysis, and analysis of major components) revealed an association between vehicle operation, and Zn, Ni, Cu, and Cr, as these elements were found in the most traffic-congested areas. By contrast, Fe and Mn, which were detected in potentially unpolluted areas, displayed concentrations that were similar to natural ones.