Analysis of voltammetric data for the evaluation of seasonal changes of the Ni, Cd, Pb and Cu content in atmospheric particulate PM _2.5

In this paper, the preliminary results of a study on concentration of heavy metals in PM _2.5 (atmospheric particles with aerodynamic diameter less than 2.5 μm) fractions of atmospheric particulate matter, sampled in Milan, are presented. This work aims to develop an electroanalytical method to analyse Pb, Cu, Cd and Ni in PM _2.5 and to investigate seasonal and weekly trends in the amount of PM _2.5 and its composition for considered metals. The samples have been selected within the seasons ranging from September 2002 to November 2003 so that they represent the possible seasonal changes; the samples within this period have been chosen in order to have data relevant to both working days and holidays. The determination of Cd, Pb and Cu has been carried out by Differential Pulse Anodic Stripping Voltammetry, whereas the concentration of Ni has been determined by Differential Pulse Adsorptive Cathodic Stripping Voltammetry. The concentrations of the metals in the sampled atmosphere and in the PM _2.5 have been evaluated; through ANOVA possible seasonal or weekly variations in the above cited concentrations have been investigated.