Distribution of airborne particles from multi-emission source

The purpose of this work was to study the distribution of airborne particles in the surroundings of an iron and steel factory in southern Finland. Several sources of particulate emissions are lying side by side, causing heavy dust loading to the environment. This complicated multi-pollutant situation was studied mainly by SEM/EDX methodology. Particles accumulated on Scots pine bark were identified and quantitatively measured according to their element content, size and shape. As a result, distribution maps of particulate elements were drawn and the amount of different particle types along the study lines was plotted. Particulate emissions from the industrial or energy production processes were not the main dust source. Most emissions were produced from the clinker crusher. Numerous stockpiles of the industrial wastes and raw materials also gave rise to particulate emissions as a result of wind erosion. It was concluded that SEM/EDX methodology is a useful tool for studying the distribution of particulate pollutants.