Chapter 5. Secondary formation of toxic nitropolycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons promoted on mineral dust aerosols

Abstract

Atmospheric dust transported from desert areas contains large amounts of mineral particles that are known to adversely affect human health. Although the chemicals associated with dust have been recognized as a possible cause of negative health impacts, more research is required to pinpoint the exact underlying causes. According to the results of our monitoring studies of ambient aerosols, chemical reactions on mineral dust considerably increase the amount of nitropolycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, a major class of toxic chemicals. This suggests that surface reactions on mineral dust should be considered as an atmospheric source of toxic organic chemicals and that they may play a significant role in adverse health effects induced by mineral dust aerosols.