Source apportionment by positive matrix factorization on elemental concentration obtained in PM10 and biomonitors collected in the vicinities of a steelworks

Abstract

The objective of this study was to assess the impact of steelworks emissions in its vicinity through chemical element analysis. Two approaches were used: instrumental monitoring and biomonitoring using transplanted lichens. Element contents in filters and lichens were determined by k₀-INAA and PIXE and sources identification was performed by the receptor model positive matrix factorization. PM10 data indicated that the steelworks has an important impact on the air quality, having several sources associated with its processes been identified. Lichen analyses showed that this impact decrease significantly with the distance to the factory.