The chemical composition of airborne particles in the UK atmosphere

Published data collected over the past fifteen years relating to the elemental and ionic composition and chemical speciation of both inorganic and organic components of airborne particles collected at (predominantly urban) United Kingdom sites have been reviewed. Whilst there have been no studies of total composition and few consistent studies of major components, there are high quality long-term survey data on trace metals and some specific organic compounds. The available data are described and, where possible, a view on “typical” composition presented.