Screening of platinum group metals from automobile catalysts in soils of Ostrava City

Abstract

Automobile catalysts are sources of platinum group metals (PGM) emissions into the environment. Since their introduction, the increase of PGM concentrations in different environmental matrices has been observed. This, together with the information about toxicity of Pt, Pd and Rh, raises concerns about possible health risks. To obtain input data on potential exposure to PGM, soil sampling methodology was developed and screening of PGM in soils was provided in the city of Ostrava at locations with different traffic load, including sites with potential exposure of children. The screening indicates that in immediate proximity to high traffic, increased Pt, Pd and Rh concentrations are observed.