Chemical characterization of particulated atmospheric matter PM10 in Guajira, Colombia

During 2013, a study in La Guajira, Colombia, was conducted to characterize both aqueous and respirable fractions of particulate matter PM10, result of coal mining activities that occupy nearly 30% of the territory, and to evaluate its association with natural and anthropogenic sources. Filters collection was carried out through a monitoring system that consists in fourteen stations, using a high volume sampling equipment PM10 (Thermo Scientific VFC-PM10 High Volume Air Sampler). The extraction was done with hot water and the analysis by UV-VIS spectrophotometry. The highest concentrations correspond to SO42- (0.25 mu g/m(3)), (0.19 mu g/m(3)), NH4+ (0.032 mu g/m(3)), Na+ (1.98 mu g/m(3)), Ca2+ (0.40 mu g/m(3)) and Mg2+ (0.31 mu g/m(3)). Results indicate that the main responsible sources of the chemical content in particulate matter correspond to marine aerosol, impulsed by sea currents (Cl- and Na+) from natural origin, and agricultural activities, livestock (NH4+) and mining (SO42-, Ca2+ and Mg2+) from anthropogenic origin.