Trace element concentrations on fine particles in the Ohio River Valley

Atmospheric particles were collected from May, 1980 to Dec., 1981 at 3 sampling sites in the Ohio River Valley (ORV). The collected samples were analyzed by x-ray fluorescence (XRF) for elemental concentrations and their masses determined by beta gauging. The XRF data and associated wind trajectories were used to select a subset (200) of ORV samples in the fine fraction for further analysis by instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA). Combined XRF and INAA data provided concentration values for up to 40 elements. Trace element concentration ratios to Se did not show modal that which were previously observed in samples collected downwind from the Midwest U.S. Chemical mass balances with 11 sources are being used to fit trace-element concentrations. Most particulate S is governed by the regional sulfate component. Results suggest that the distance scale is shorter than previously thought.