Inorganic chemical composition of particulate matter at urban area

Particulate matter (PM₁₀ can be easily inhaled and pernetrated to bronchi of lung. Recent epidemiological study has shown that exposure to particulate matter can worsen health conditions escpecially the condition of chronic respiratory and cardiovascular disease. This study had been conducted at two different urban locations namely Bayan Lepas. Penang and Kota Bharu, Kelantan. Total of 48 samples were collected from January 2010 to December 2010 at the begining and end of each month. Inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (1CP-OES) was used to determine the target trace metals concentrations which were Al. As, Ba. Ca, Cr, Cu, Fe, Hg, K, Mg, Mn. Na. Ni. Sr and Zn. It was found that the mean concentration of PM10 was higher in Bayan Lepas. Penang compared to Kota Bharu. Kelantan. The concentration of trace metals were found high in Bayan Lepas, Penang were Ba. K. Na and Zn. The concentration of trace metals were found high in Kota Bharu. Kelantan N\ ere Ba. Na and Zn. Both Bayan Lepas. Penang and Kota Bharu. Kelantan were found to have similar contributors of trace metals to the atmosphere using Principal Component Analysis (PCA). They were from mineral or crustal source. vehicle source and also industrial source. The scarcity of data or available information is the main problem for current study which unable comparing of result with other researchers. Therefore, the present study will help to provide the quantitative measurements of PM₁₀ and its associated trace metals in the study sites and help to assess the air quality of urban area.