Micro-morphological analysis of foliar uptake and retention of airborne particulate matter (PM)-bound toxic metals: implications for their phytoremediation

While airborne particulate matter (PM) pollution is a serious problem for urban environments, it can be reduced through uptake by plant leaves. In this study, we investigated and compared the of PM-bound toxic metals different species. Enrichment factor (EF) correlation analyses across sample types indicated anthropogenic origins these with source signatures. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) both leaf surfaces (adaxial abaxial) suggested that micro-morphological properties surface (e.g. stomata, trichomes, epicuticular wax, epidermal appendages) control accumulation PM associated in Senna siamea leaves showed most variation as well maximum concentration metals. It was found foliar affected morphological characteristics. Our results imply speciation strategies used to help decrease pollution.