title: Sources of anthropogenic platinum-group elements (PGE): Automotive catalysts versus PGE-processing industries.
abstract: Soil samples from the area of Hanau (Hessen, Germany) were analyzed for anthropogenic platinum-group elements (PGE). The results confirm the existence of two different sources for anthropogenic PGE: 1. automotive catalysts, and 2. PGE-processing plants. Both sources emit qualitatively and quantitatively different PGE spectra and PGE interelemental ratios (especially the Pt/Rh ratio). Elevated PGE values which are due to automotive catalysts are restricted to a narrow-range along roadside soil, whereas those due to PGE-processing plants display a large-area dispersion. The emitted PGE-containing particles in the case of automotive catalysts are subject to transport by wind and water, whereas those from PGE-processing plants are preferably transported by wind. This points to a different aerodynamic particle size. Pt, Pd, and Rh concentrations along motorways are dependent on the amount of traffic and the driving characteristics.
authors.affiliation: Institut für Mineralogie, Johann Wolfgang Goethe-Universität, Georg-Voigt-Strasse 16, D-60054, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
authors.forename: F
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Zereini
authors.forename: F
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Dirksen
authors.forename: B
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Skerstupp
authors.forename: H
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Urban