Biomonitoring of vehicles derived particulate matter using magnetic properties of Ulmus carpinifolia leaves

ABSTRACT: Biomonitoring of vehicle-derived particulates is conducted by taking magnetic measurements of roadside tree leaves. Isothermal Remanent magnetization (IRM300mT) of more than 150 U. carpinifolia leaves was determined and IRM300mT normalized for the leaf area. The normalized 2-D magnetization as shown by results is dominantly controlled by the tree’s distance to the road. The spatial and temporal variations of vehicle-derived particulates were measured using magnetic analysis. The study explains the results of an air pollution biomonitoring in Isfahan (Iran) on the magnetic properties of tree leaves from U. carpinifolia. Isothermal remanent magnetization (IRM300 mT) of U U. carpinifolia leaves determined. Data collection apparatus is a magnetometer. Eight locations in different distance of roadsides determined and the tree leaves of Elm (U. carpinifolia) from two meter height collected. Ten leaves from each trees separated. Ten repetitions achieved for each sample. Leaves placed in a special box to measure magnetic field with magnetometer. Comparison of magnetic properties of Elm tree leaves before and after washing done. Magnetic properties show that high concentrations followed in trees found in near major roadsides. For leaves from individual trees, magnetization values fall from higher values on the road-proximal side to lower values on the distal side, indicating the ability of trees to reduce particulate concentrations at respirable height within the atmosphere. The rainfall produces a net decrease in the leaf magnetic dust loadings.