Lung deposition, health risks, and composition of PM2.5 collected in an industrial area in Southern Brazil

Abstract

Joinville contains the third-largest industrial pole in the South region of Brazil. Studies about air quality and atmospheric composition are scarce. To further the discussions on the influence of anthropogenic sources on air pollution in the city and its impacts on human health, PM2.5 samples were collected within an industrial neighborhood during wintertime. Pollutants (ions, elements, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and derivatives) were determined by gas and ion chromatography and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry techniques. Besides the composition, respiratory dose fluxes were calculated according to a model developed by the International Commission on Radiological Protection to estimate the mass of PM2.5 deposited in the lungs. Median PM2.5 concentrations surpassed (23 μg m−3) the limit recommended by the World Health Organization. Sulfate and nitrate were the most abundant water-soluble ions, indicating the importance of secondary reactions to PM2.5 concentrations. Cd, Sb, Mo, Zn, Cu, Pb, As, and Ni were enriched, and these species were associated with industrial activities and vehicular traffic. Among the PAHs, high-molecular-weight compounds were the most abundant species and were associated with fossil fuel combustion and industrial emissions. Oxygenated and nitrated hydrocarbon compounds were predominantly formed through secondary reactions. Chronic exposure to concentrations of carcinogenic elements, which showed enrichment during the studied period, may represent a moderate risk to human health. The benzo(a)pyrene equivalent index exceeded the safe limit in half of the samples. Furthermore, significant amounts of PM2.5 and components with carcinogenic and oxidative properties can reach the lungs, indicating a direct risk of exposure.