Determination of inorganic ions and trace elements in total suspended particles at three urban zones in the Mexico City Metropolitan Area and one rural site

Inorganic ions and trace metals in total suspended particles were measured during the period 2006–2007 at four sites; three urban sites in the Mexico City Metropolitan Area (MCMA) and one nearby rural site in the state of Morelos. SO42−, NO3−, Cl− and NH4+ ions were analyzed by ion chromatography; Na+, K+, Ca2+ and Mg2+ by flame atomic absorption spectroscopy, and Al, Cd, Cr, Mn, Pb and V by an atomic absorption spectrometer with a graphite furnace attachment. The results indicated that SO42− was the most abundant ion. All trace elements except Mn and V showed statistically significant differences between sampling sites. Pearson's correlation applied to all data showed a high correlation among SO42−, NO3− and NH4+, indicating a common anthropogenic origin. In addition, the correlation observed between Ca2+ and Al indicated a crustal origin, as supported by the enrichment factors. Over the total sampling period, significant differences in particles and trace metals were found between sites and meteorological seasons. To gain a better insight into the origin of trace metals and major inorganic ions, a Principal Component Analysis was applied to the results for six trace metal and eight inorganic ions.