Trace elements determination in lichens and in the airborne particulate matter for the evaluation of the atmospheric pollution in a region of northern Italy

摘要

Lichens as biomonitors and neutron activation analysis as analytical technique have been employed to study the distribution of trace elements (TE) in a mountain region of north Italy (Biella) characterized by settlements of wool industry. Samples of airborne particulate matter collected onto filters, different species of lichens and samples of sols have been analyzed for the calculation of the enrichment factors (Efs) of more than 25 TE. By comparison of the corresponding EFs, the most suitable lichen species (Parmelia caperata) was selected as specific TE biomonitor of the area investigated.