Size distribution of atmospheric aerosols in urban sites in India

Particle size distribution of atmospheric aerosols was measured at different locations in Moradabad and Bombay, India, using an Andersen cascade impactor. The size distributions of lead, cadmium, copper and zinc were found to be bimodal. The respirable fraction of the particulates (less than 4.7 microns) was calculated. The fraction of fine particles was found to be greater in Bombay than in Moradabad. The mass median aerodynamic diameter (MMAD) for lead, cadmium, copper and zinc was calculated. The atmospheric concentrations of these elements were also measured at the two locations. The analysis of samples was carried out by differential pulse anodic stripping voltammetry.