<p>Seasonal variability, sources, and associated health risks of trace metals (Mg, Mn, Fe, Co, Cu, Zn, and Cd) in PM<sub>10</sub> were evaluated during three climatic seasons of 2024 at two sites in southeastern Mexico located near gas and oil facilities. The relationship between aerosol optical depth (AOD) and PM<sub>10</sub> mass concentration at ground level was also evaluated, along with the morphology and elemental composition of PM<sub>10</sub>. At both sampling sites, PM<sub>10</sub> concentrations frequently exceeded the limits established by NOM-025-SSA1-2021 and WHO guidelines. Pronounced seasonality was observed, with higher metal concentrations in PM<sub>10</sub> during the Nortes and rainy seasons, underscoring the influence of climatic and seasonal factors. X-ray spectroscopy showed that the particles were distributed unevenly, including both mineral and combustion particles, which are often found in urban and semi-urban areas. The connections between Fe and Mg, and Mg and Zn, were attributed to mineral sources. In contrast, the presence of other metals suggested that they came from vehicle emissions and combustion processes. Principal component analysis (PCA) identified Cd, Co, and Mn as markers of specific sources, likely related to burning hydrocarbons and industrial activities. Wind patterns suggest that the COM site was affected by sources near industrial areas and highways. In contrast, MAV site was influenced by a combination of sources. Enrichment factors indicated contributions from both mineral (Mg) and dominant anthropogenic (Cd) sources. AOD showed clear seasonal patterns. Higher values during the rainy season were linked to more hygroscopic aerosol particles, while lower PM10 concentrations were due to the dilution effect of rain. Carcinogenic risk assessments showed that the levels of cadmium and cobalt exceeded the established safety limits. In contrast, non-carcinogenic risk assessment showed exceedances for Co and Mn in MAV and for Co in COM, suggesting potential effects from chronic exposure. The results highlight the necessity of improving PM<sub>10</sub> monitoring and control, supervising industrial flaring, and safeguarding adjacent communities.</p>

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Trace metals in PM10 of urban sites near gas and oil facilities in Tabasco, Mexico: seasonal variability, sources, and health risk

  • Rosa María Cerón Bretón,
  • Antonio García Montero,
  • Stephanie Martínez Morales,
  • Julia Griselda Cerón Bretón,
  • Alberto Antonio Espinosa Guzmán,
  • Claudia Alejandra Aguilar Ucán,
  • Carlos Montalvo Romero,
  • Rocío García Martínez,
  • María de la Luz Espinosa Fuentes,
  • Simón Eduardo Carranco Lozada,
  • Dora María Frías Márquez,
  • María Fernanda Calderón Vega,
  • Marcela Rangel Marrón,
  • Jhoanna Sílis Esquivel

摘要

Seasonal variability, sources, and associated health risks of trace metals (Mg, Mn, Fe, Co, Cu, Zn, and Cd) in PM10 were evaluated during three climatic seasons of 2024 at two sites in southeastern Mexico located near gas and oil facilities. The relationship between aerosol optical depth (AOD) and PM10 mass concentration at ground level was also evaluated, along with the morphology and elemental composition of PM10. At both sampling sites, PM10 concentrations frequently exceeded the limits established by NOM-025-SSA1-2021 and WHO guidelines. Pronounced seasonality was observed, with higher metal concentrations in PM10 during the Nortes and rainy seasons, underscoring the influence of climatic and seasonal factors. X-ray spectroscopy showed that the particles were distributed unevenly, including both mineral and combustion particles, which are often found in urban and semi-urban areas. The connections between Fe and Mg, and Mg and Zn, were attributed to mineral sources. In contrast, the presence of other metals suggested that they came from vehicle emissions and combustion processes. Principal component analysis (PCA) identified Cd, Co, and Mn as markers of specific sources, likely related to burning hydrocarbons and industrial activities. Wind patterns suggest that the COM site was affected by sources near industrial areas and highways. In contrast, MAV site was influenced by a combination of sources. Enrichment factors indicated contributions from both mineral (Mg) and dominant anthropogenic (Cd) sources. AOD showed clear seasonal patterns. Higher values during the rainy season were linked to more hygroscopic aerosol particles, while lower PM10 concentrations were due to the dilution effect of rain. Carcinogenic risk assessments showed that the levels of cadmium and cobalt exceeded the established safety limits. In contrast, non-carcinogenic risk assessment showed exceedances for Co and Mn in MAV and for Co in COM, suggesting potential effects from chronic exposure. The results highlight the necessity of improving PM10 monitoring and control, supervising industrial flaring, and safeguarding adjacent communities.