Evaluación de la presencia de aerosoles sedimentables en el área urbana del cantón Gonzanamá

Abstract

Abstract: The Gonzanamá Canton has several productive activities within its boundaries, most notably livestock farming, a significant source of income for the area. However, these activities generate emissions of polluting gases and particulate matter. This experimental research aimed to analyze the presence of settleable aerosols in the urban area of the Gonzanamá Canton. The analysis was conducted using the gravimetric method with five collection points for settleable material within the area during the months of August, September, and October. Once the particulate matter concentration was determined, heavy metal analysis was performed using atomic absorption spectroscopy. The results, according to Ecuadorian regulations, were within the established limits, but exceeded the values recommended by the World Health Organization. Lead was not detected, yet it is one of the most lethal metals, even in small concentrations. Chromium, arsenic, and cadmium showed the highest levels in this study.