Chemical characterization of urban PM10 in the Tropical Andes

Complex inhalable particles have become one of the main causes to trigger health problems worldwide. While the level of concern depends on the chemical composition of these particles, some regions are poorly studied, particularly, the Andes. In this work, the chemical characterization of atmospheric PM10 filter samples, collected between January and October of 2017, was carried out for the first time in the world's highest capital, Quito, Ecuador. This study investigates PM10 relation with meteorological variables and criteria pollutants. Average PM10 concentrations ranged from 24.9 mu gm(-3) to 26.2 mu g m(-3), with some alarming peaks during the episodes of fires and New Year's celebration. The major elements at study sites were Ca, Na, S, Mg, P, K, Fe, Si and Al, while the major water-soluble ion was SO42-. Meteorology plays an important role at this complex terrain city. Factor analysis showed natural dust and soil resuspension as the main source of particulate matter. Moreover, two less urbanized sites showed evidence of industrial activities or airport emissions, while the central city site showed a very strong signal of traffic-related pollution. These results are compared with representative cities around the world. As is the case in developing countries, low-quality diesel fuel is recognized for emitting large amounts of heavy metals, resulting in higher levels of those tracers in traffic flow areas. This work demonstrates the problems facing a midsize city, such as the lack of stricter regulations and, thus compromised air quality. This may imply serious respiratory and cardiovascular health effects.