Elemental and isotopic compositions in blank filters collecting atmospheric particulates

Abstract

Background The atmospheric particulates can be harmful to human health due to toxic substances sorbed onto particulates. Although the atmospheric particulates have been collected using different types of filters, few studies have reported background contents of major and trace element, and isotopic compositions in the blank filters used for collecting the particulates yet. Here, we first report background contents of major and trace elements, and isotopic compositions (Zn and Pb isotopes) in the blank filters. Then, we evaluate the best type of filter for elemental and isotope analyses in the particulates. Findings The contents of major elements are the lowest in the PTFE filter and become higher in the order of the Nylon, NC, and GF filters, indicating that either PTFE and/or Nylon filters are the most suitable for major element analysis in the atmospheric particulates. Likewise, the contents of trace elements are the lowest in the PTFE filter and become much higher in the order of the Nylon, NC, and GF filters, indicating that PTFE filter is the most suitable for trace element analysis in the atmospheric particulates. Otherwise, background elemental contents result in overestimating their concentrations in the atmospheric particulates. All δ66ZnJMC-Lyon values in two GF filters are within those from samples of the Chinese deserts and of the Chinese Loess Plateau. Likewise, their 206Pb/204Pb ratios are similar with those of samples from Xi’an and Beijing, indicating that the GF filter is not suitable for Zn and Pb isotope study in the atmospheric particulates. Conclusions This study suggests that the PTFE filter is the most suitable for elemental and isotope study in the atmospheric particulates and that the GF filter cannot be used for source identification in the atmospheric particulates using Zn and Pb isotopes.

Review of Filters for Air Sampling and Chemical Analysis in Mining Workplaces

“…Filters should have low blank levels for the targeted chemical species (<1 μg per 47 mm filter). Background contents of major and trace elements and isotopic composition for the PTFE, nylon, polycarbonate, and glass-fiber filters are reported by Lee et al [ 151 ]. Trace-element concentrations are the lowest in the PTFE followed by nylon.…”

Life-Course Health Risk Assessment of PM2.5 Elements in China: Exposure Disparities by Species, Source, Age, Gender, and Location

“…Offline methods, such as previous filter-based measurements, possess the potential to fractionate particulate elements into different bioavailable forms , and typically offer higher sensitivity, allowing for the detection of a broader range of elements compared to online techniques. However, it is important to acknowledge that offline methods, like the collection and analysis of 24-h integrated filters, come with labor-intensive processes, limited sample sizes that may not capture rapid pollution changes effectively, , and potential issues related to sampling artifacts and background residues . Additionally, a crucial step in offline analysis involves acid digestion with a microwave digestion device, which, while effective, is not a nondestructive method and may yield variable element recoveries ranging from 60% to 130%. , Furthermore, previous research has predominantly been conducted in urban settings, potentially providing an incomplete picture of PM 2.5 -bound elements in various environments.…”