Characterization of the PM2.5 aerosol fraction monitored at a suburban site in south-eastern Italy by integrating isotopic techniques and ion beam analysis

Both teflon and quartz PM2.5 filters collected from January to July 2021 at the monitoring site of Department Mathematics Physics University Salento in Lecce (Italy) were analyzed by integrating different characterization techniques (Particle Induced X-ray Emission PIXE, Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometry IRMS, Accelerator AMS) CEDAD (Center Applied Physics, Dating Diagnostics) Salento. The concentration analyses allowed identify variation main characteristics as a function season day week. This last was integrated results which heavy elements their concentrations. showed presence elements, such S Zn (considered markers anthropogenic sources for PM2.5) Ca Fe (as natural sources). concentrations these significant decrease during weekend, mostly case origin, according data on temporal evolution. Using isotopic carbon nitrogen means we determined values δ 15 N between 4.5 10.6‰, are consistent with origin anthropic combustion processes secondary contribution vehicular traffic. Similarly, 13 C obtained IRMS range −24.4 −26.7‰, generally associated biomass An analysis fossil modern carried out measuring radiocarbon using IRMS-EA system connected TANDETRON accelerator AMS spectrometer. In more detail, found percentage 71.6–92.4% that indicates larger bio-derived respect period. parameters finally used input ordination methods deeper characterization.