Evidence of human impact in Antarctic region by studying atmospheric aerosols

Air quality is a global concerning topic because of its great impact on the environment and health. Because of that, the study of atmospheric aerosols looking for harmful pollutants is rising, as well as the interest in the origin of the contaminants. Depending on the nature and size of the aerosols, some elements can be detected at a great distance from the emission source, even in Antarctica, where this study is conducted. Several samples of PM filters from 2018 to 2019 (Deception Island) and 2019-2020 (Livingston Island) campaigns have been analyzed by three powerful spectroscopic techniques: FESEM (Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy), LIBS (Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy), and ICP-MS (Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry). These techniques have allowed us to find some heavy metals in the air of the Antarctic region (Al, Fe, Ti, Ni, Cr, and Mn). Deeper studies on ICP-MS results have confirmed those results and have also provided information on their

Automated summary

This study used three powerful spectroscopic techniques to analyze air samples from the Antarctic region, revealing the presence of heavy metal elements and providing important information for further understanding atmospheric pollution in Antarctica.