Chemical and radioactive composition of bulk deposition in Málaga (Spain)

Chemical and radioactive composition of bulk deposition samples, which were collected monthly over a 5 year period (January 2007 until 31 December 2011) at a site located 30 m.a.l. in Málaga (4°28′ 8″W; 36°43′ 40″N) have been analysed. All samples were analysed for pH, major ions and gamma radionuclides. The average pH of bulk deposition was 6.4. Cl− and SO42−SO42− were the main anions, while Ca+ and Na+ were the main cations. Significant correlations were found in soil-derived species among Ca2+, Mg2+ and K+ and sea-salt species between Na+ and Cl−. Other relatively good correlations were also observed between acidic anions (SO42−andNO3−) and crustal-derived cations (Ca2+, Na+, K+). Sources of the major ions were assessed based on the enrichment factor method. The radionuclides present in all samples are 7Be and 210Pb and 40K appears in 50% of the samples. Relatively poor correlations were observed between the specific activities of gamma radionuclides and the major ions. The temporal variations of major ions and radionuclides exhibit similar seasonal behaviour with low values in winter–autumn months and maximum values in spring–summer months. The fluxes of major ions and gamma radionuclides have been discussed with meteorological factors controlling depositions.

► Chemistry and radioactive composition of bulk deposition.
► Seasonal variations of chemistry and radioactive composition in bulk deposition.
► Relationships between chemistry and radioactive composition in bulk deposition.
► Factors controlling the fluxes of major ions and radionuclides in bulk deposition.