Hazardous Elements in Road Dust from Petrol Stations in Rzeszów (Podkarpackie, Poland): Toxicological Assessment Using Field Portable X-ray Fluorescence (FP-XRF) as ‘White Analytical Technique’

Abstract

AbstractSamples of road dust (RD) from petrol stations (n = 20) located in Rzeszów (Podkarpackie, Poland) were analysed to find potential markers of traffic-related pollution. The level (μg/g) of: Mo, U, As, Hg, Th, Pb, Ni, Cu, Cr, Be, Sr, Zr, Zn, Mn and Fe were measured using field portable X-ray spectroscopy (FP-XRF) as a direct, rapid and ‘white analytical technique’. Our research demonstrated for the first time the utility of using FP-XRF for environmental toxicological assessment of RD from petrol stations. The qualitative and quantitative composition of the dust samples tested provides valuable research material for creating and updating regulations and finding pollution hotspots such as petrol stations. It was possible to find potential markers of traffic-related pollution (e.g., Zr and Fe forms of disk brakes or brake pads). Certain elements of the study give ambiguous signals related to fuel distribution and road traffic. They can come from various sources of environmental contamination. The adoption of evidence-based policies to minimise pollution, conserve the environment, and protect the well-being of people living or working near gas stations is anticipated to be aided by these findings for policymakers, regulatory authorities, and stakeholders. Incorporating toxicological risk assessment framework, this study pioneers the investigation of human exposure to hazardous elements in RD, an in-depth evaluation of both carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic health risks associated with such exposure including lifetime average daily dose. Our findings contribute novel insights into the environmental toxicology of urban areas, emphasising the need for tailored interventions to mitigate these risks.