Atmospheric mercury concentrations and fluxes in the Almadén district (Spain)

Atmospheric mercury levels around the world’s largest mining and refining complex (Almadén, Spain) were determined during two field campaigns (September 1993 and February 1994) using both point monitors and lidar techniques. High mercury concentrations (0.1–5 μg m-3) were measured over the village of Almadén in the prevailing wind direction. In the month of September the total mercury flux into the atmosphere was estimated to range from 600 to 1200 g h-1. An attempt was made to measure the contribution from individual mercury sources.