Anthropogenic trace elements (Bi, Cd, Cr, Pb) concentrations in a West Antarctic ice core

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Atmospheric Chemistry
• Paleoclimatology

Background:

• Industrialization and mining since the late 19th century have increased atmospheric toxic trace elements.
• Understanding historical pollution sources and transport is crucial for environmental management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate historical atmospheric concentrations of bismuth, cadmium, chromium, and lead in Antarctica.
• To identify sources and variability of trace element pollution over 132 years.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of two Mount Johns ice cores spanning 1883-2015.
• Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) for trace element quantification.

Main Results:

• Evidence of trace element pollution in Antarctica dating back to 1883.
• Concentration maxima observed in the early 20th century and 1970s-1990s, with recent decreases.
• Attribution of pollution to South American, African, and Australian mining/smelting, and fossil fuel use.

Conclusions:

• Antarctic ice cores provide a historical record of anthropogenic pollution.
• Trace element pollution in Antarctica is linked to global industrial activities and atmospheric transport.
• Strengthening westerlies may influence pollution patterns.