Magnetic particles of industrial origin in different environments——Measurements, identification and significance

Magnetic particles of industrial origin in different environments--Measurements, identification and significance

Various anthropogenic activities, in particular industrial processes based on combustion of fossil fuel, produce iron-oxides, which, being included in fly ashes, are transported through atmospheric pathways and deposited on ground. Upon deposition, they penetrate soils or water sediments, and can be easily detected due to their specific magnetic signature. In many cases, he presence of these magnetic particles is closely related to the presence of anorganic contaminants-heavy metals. This correlation is mainly due to coexistence, from the source to the deposition. Correlation with organic pollutants has been also reported, but this needs further detailed studies. In our contribution, we plan to review typical examples of such anthropogenic magnetic particles, with their source-specific features. We will highlight the methods of their identification in different environments, and laboratory characteristics.