Physico-chemical characterization of total suspended particles (TSP) analysis by sem-eds

The work describes the use of Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) combined with dispersive X-RAY spectrometer (EDS) to characterize inorganic atmospheric particles samples collected on glasses filters from three zones within the city of Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico . Specimens were initially processed by separating the collected particles from the filters by means of submersing a 2 cm² section of each filter into isopropilic alcohol within a test tube for 5 minutes. The different elements found amongst individual particles were Al, Ba, Br, Ca, Ce, Cl, Cr, Cu, Fe, K, Mg, Si, Ti, W, Zn and Zr. Based on EDS results, these particulate matter was primarily composed of W (AT% 12.53), Na (AT% 10.57), Al (AT%9.94), Fe (AT% 9.67), Si (AT% 7.28). The results obtained from the characterization of the particles captured by TSP filters, showed that are usually related with litophilic sources, such as agricultural activities, areas of soil free of anthropogenic impact, paved streets and construction sites These particles morphology and chemical composition, illustrate an abundance of natural elements within the zone. However some of these elements present are directly related with human activities, and are of much interest for the public health and environmental perspectives.