Monitoring of vehicles derived particulates using magnetic properties of leaves

Abstract

Biomonitoring of vehicle-derived particulates is conducted by taking magnetic measurements of roadside tree leaves. Remanent magnetization (IRM(300 mT)) of more than 400 Delbergia sissoo leaves was determined and IRM(300 mT) normalized for the leaf area. The normalized 2-D magnetization as shown by results is dominantly controlled by the tree's distance to the road. The spatial and temporal variations of vehicle-derived particulates were mapped using magnetic analysis. 2D-magnetizations values were higher for leaves collected adjacent to major road sections than for those from village road suggesting vehicle emissions, rather than resuspended road dust, as the major cause of magnetic particles of roadside tree leaves. Vehicles derived particulates are responsible for tree leaf magnetism, and the leaf magnetizations values fall significantly from high values proximal to the roadside to lower values at the distal side. This suggests the ability of trees to reduce particulates concentrations in the atmosphere. The rainfall produces a net decrease in the leaf magnetic dust loadings.