Seasonal variation and sources of carbonaceous species and elements in PM2.5 and PM10 over the eastern Himalaya

The study represents the seasonal characteristics (carbonaceous aerosols and elements) contribution of prominent sources PM2.5 PM10 in high altitude eastern Himalaya (Darjeeling) during August 2018–July 2019. Carbonaceous [organic carbon (OC), elemental (EC), water soluble organic (WSOC)] elements (Al, Fe, Ti, Cu, Zn, Mn, Cr, Ni, Mo, Cl, P, S, K, Zr, Pb, Na, Mg, Ca, B) were analyzed to estimate their possible sources. annual concentrations computed as 37±12 ?g m?3 58±18 m?3, respectively. In present case, total carbonaceous species accounted for 20.6% 18.6% PM10, respectively, whereas trace estimated be 15% 12% Monthly variations mass also observed observational period. PM2.5, POC SOC 2.35 ± 1.06 (66% OC) 1.19±0.57 (34% OC), average 3.18 1.13 (63% 2.05±0.98 (37% ranging from 55 77% 33 45% OC contributions 51 73% 37 49% OC, positive relationship between & EC WSOC all seasons (except monsoon case PM10) indicates common enrichment factors (EFs) significant correlation Al with othe crustal (Fe, Ti) fine coarse mode indicate influence mineral dust at Darjeeling. Principal component analysis (PCA) resolved four (biomass burning + fossil fuel combustion (BB FFC), crustal/soil dust, vehicular emissions (VE), industrial (IE))