Measurement and evaluation of particulate matter and atmospheric heavy metal pollution in Konya Province, Turkey

Air pollution has negative effects on human health, visibility, materials, plants, and animal health. Particulate matters are one of the most important air pollutants that may create a risk for human health. Especially particulate matters, which are composed of heavy metals and cancer-causing chemicals such as PAH, dioxin, furan, can cause serious reactions in the respiratory tract. Heavy metals are so important because of their capability of accumulation in human tissues. Almost 0.01-3% of heavy metal content may be found in particulate matter. Coarse particulate matters (PM10) which have smaller diameters than 10 microns may enter from the respiratory system and reach the lungs. In this study, PM10 concentrations and heavy metal content (Lead, Nickel, Arsenic, Cadmium) of the samples were measured and evaluated concerning present regulations and limit values for different points in Konya Province, Turkey. The samples were taken at different seasons such as winter, summer, and spring for 16 days. According to the results of this study, in the winter season, PM10 concentration of the measurement point (Directorate Building) located at the settlement area was found the highest. In the summer season, PM10 concentration of the measurement point (Sille Junction) located at crossroads was found the highest. In spring season, maximum PM10 concentration was detected on the measurement point (KOS base station) located in the industrial area. Moreover, daily average nickel (Ni) concentration measured at KOS base station was found the highest and some other station located close to the industrial area and settlement areas were detected higher than average annual limit values in the winter period. Daily average lead (Pb) value was found at least 67% and maximum 98% higher at Sille and Besyol Junctions, but below the annual average limits. Daily average cadmium (Cd) value was mostly calculated in the Directorate Building winter measurement, but it did not exceed the limit value during the measurement periods. Daily average arsenic (As) values at Directorate Building and Karkent measurement points in the winter period were found higher than the annual average limit values. Only daily average nickel concentrations were detected higher than the annual average limits for the summer and spring period at the KOS base station measurement point.

Automated summary

This study analyzed the PM10 concentration and heavy metal content in different points of Konya Province, Turkey, finding varying patterns of PM10 concentration and heavy metal content at different seasons and locations.