Geochemistry and origin of particles PM-10 in the area of Tikveš, Republic of Macedonia

We analyzed 13 aerosol samples collected on two sites in 2012: one in a commercial-industrial area and one in a residential area of Tikveš area. Coarse (PM 10) fractions were analyzed by ICP-MS at University in Štip. Seasonal gravimetric trends are obvious with higher concentrations in winter for both sides due to bad conditions of air circulation. Three main sources are proposed: (1) a natural source (crustal-geological formations) to which Mg, Li, Th, Na, Ca, U, Sr, Ca, Ti, V are related; (2) an industrial combustion source, which carries Cu, Mo, As, Zn, Pb; and (3) and nickel smelter source, characterized by high levels of Ni, Cr, Fe, Co, Mn