Analysis of atmospheric deposition in the territory of the Republic of North Ossetia-Alania by biomonitoring data

Abstract

Attention to the tourism potential of the Republic of North Ossetia-Alania is increasing with the attendant need to monitor and control atmospheric air pollution.Aim. The assessment of the possibility of using mosses as biomonitors for determining the content of heavy metals and other trace elements in the atmosphere of the territory of the Republic of North Ossetia-Alania.Material and Methods. The green mosses Hylocomium splendens and Pleurosium schreberi were used as bioindicators. Multi-element chemical analysis of mosses was carried out using X-ray fluorescence and the morphology and composition of dust fallouts on the moss surfaces was studied using a scanning electron microscope equipped with an X-ray energy-dispersive spectrometer.Results. The maximum concentration of Pb, Zn, Cr, As, Sn, Sb, Ba, Cd, Cu, Ti, Ce, As, Fe, Sr is observed in mosses in areas of the territory with a high aerotechnogenic load. The analysis of biomonitor moss in the area of the Fiagdonna tailing dump indicates that recultivation measures had been effective. Toxic elements fall on moss surface in form of fine particles as large as 1 micron and pose a danger to human health.Conclusions. The abnormally high content of Zn, Pb, Cd, Cu, Ce, As, Fe, Sr, Ti, Ba in the composition of biomonitor mosses was registered in the zone of influence of mining and processing enterprises (in the area of the Unal tailings dump) and metallurgical industries in Vladikavkaz (JSC Electrozinc and JSC Pobedit. The base source of toxic elements was determined to be fine aerotechnogenic particles that accumulate on the surface of mosses, thus confirming the high efficiency of their use for monitoring. The territory near the village of Dur Dur can be recommended as a background for ecological and geochemical research.