Sources, distribution and variability of airborne particles and hydrocarbons in La Plata area, Argentina

Total suspended particles (TSP), particulate- (ALIp) and semi-volatile aliphatic hydrocarbons (ALIsv) were measured in air sampled during the day and night over 7–8 months in industrial, commercial and residential sectors of La Plata, Argentina. TSP, ALIp and ALIsv ranges were 23–219 μg/m3, 11–447 and 12–719 ng/m3, respectively. Maximum values were recorded at a downtown site whereas the residential station showed lower levels. Concentrations were usually higher during the day and during fall and winter. Two- and three-way ANOVA were performed to evaluate the day-night, inter-station, and inter-month variability. The amount of total variability accounted by these factors was 14, 25 and 23% (p