Identification of Automobile-Derived Heavy Metal(loid)s Possibly Loaded to Soils Through Air Dust Deposit

Abstract

Recently, soil heavy metal(loid) contamination has become a big issue. Literature showed that roadside soils had a higher level of heavy metal(loid)s because of contaminated air dust. This study aims to investigate which heavy metal(loid)s are related to automobile and to understand the degree of automobile impact on soil contamination. Samples were collected from each part of the automobile, floors, and windows of four auto repair shops. Soils near the auto repair shops were also collected and analyzed. The levels of Zn, Cu, and Cr were higher in the metallic alloy-related parts, such as wheels, brake pads, and internal combustion engines. Paintings and tires were mainly related to Zn and Cu discharge. Cd, Ni, and Pb were detected from the samples although they were not primary. The air dust from the floors, windows, and the soils near auto repair shops also showed high levels of these heavy metals. This supports that the elements derived from automobile discharge to the air and become a source of roadside soil contamination. Cr and Ni were reported to have a high correlation in contaminated soils, which would because they were the materials of automobile alloy, so discharged together