The Presence of Selected Elements in the Microscopic Image of Pine Needles as an Effect of Cement and Lime Pressure within the Region of Biale Zaglebie (Central Europe)

In this study, we present the results of microscopic observations of pine needles Pinus sylvestris L. collected in the area of cement-lime pressure in the south-western part of the swietokrzyskie Mountains in the region of Biale Zaglebie. Images of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) confirm the presence of particles with a size of about 2 to 20 mu m on the surface of the needles. Analysis using X-ray energy dispersion spectroscopy (EDS) allowed, in turn, to identify lead, iron, aluminium, calcium, and silicon in particles deposited in the surface layer of assimilation organs and dispersed in the surface layer of vegetation tissue within cell structures. Chemical composition, size and shape of particles of foreign bodies on the needles' surface allow them to be identified as cement-lime dust coming from production plants located in the Biale Zaglebie. Negative influence on the condition and liveliness of Scots pine in the study area is manifested by images on which stomata is sealed, which limits the possibility of gas exchange.

Automated summary

This study presents results of microscopic observations of pine needles collected in the Biale Zaglebie region, revealing the presence of cement-lime dust particles on the surface. Chemical analysis identified lead, iron, aluminum, calcium, and silicon in the particles, impacting gas exchange and vitality of Scots pine in the area.