(47h) Quantification of Total and Insoluble Hexavalent Chromium in Ambient Particulate Matter in Aktobe, Kazakhstan

Hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) has been identified as a carcinogen and was listed among the 18 core hazardous air pollutants by the US EPA, 2004. In ambient particles, Cr(VI) exists in soluble and insoluble forms wherein the sum of the two forms is known as total Cr(VI). The release of Cr(VI) into the atmosphere due to rapid industrialization had impacted the society and the sustainability of humans and the environment. This study uses a microwave-assisted method to quantify total and insoluble Cr(VI) in airborne particulate matter. An improved chromium sampler collected particulate matter on PTFE filter membrane, filters extracted with a microwave system using 3% Na₂CO₃ -2% NaOH at 95°C for 1 hour and Cr(VI) analyzed by IC-UV at 530 nm. The total and insoluble Cr(VI) concentrations as well as the mean ratios of insoluble to soluble Cr(VI) were determined during the measurement period. This is the first report with regards to the quantification of soluble and insoluble Cr(VI) in Aktobe, Kazakhstan. The study thus provides useful information to further monitor trends over time, identify primary sources of Cr(VI) contamination, evaluate health and environmental effects, and initiate emission reduction strategies.