Monitoring and statistical evaluation of heavy metals in airborne particulates in Cairo, Egypt

Airborne particulate material was monitored as total suspended particles and particulate matter less than 10 μm at selected sites in Cairo. The selected sites represent heavily industrial and industrial–residential areas of Cairo, Egypt. The filters were further analyzed for lead, cadmium, zinc and nickel using ion chromatography. The chosen method was modified to improve resolution and decrease the retention time. The data obtained were treated statistically using one-way analysis of variance and correlated with the anthropological and industrial activities of the sites. The concentrations of the heavy metals are studied in terms of particle size, time dependence, and safety.