The effects of particle-induced oxidative damage from exposure to airborne fine particulate matter components in the vicinity of landfill sites on Hong Kong

• Published in: Chemosphere (Oxford) Vol. 230; pp. 578 - 586
• Main Authors: Lui, K.H., Jones, Tim, BéruBé, Kelly, Ho, Steven Sai Hang, Yim, S.H.L., Cao, Jun-Ji, Lee, S.C., Tian, Linwei, Min, Dae Wi, Ho, K.F.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: England Elsevier Ltd 01.09.2019
• Subjects: Ambient air; Landfill composites; Landfills; Oxidative potential; PM2.5; Ambient air; Oxidative potential; Landfill composites; Landfills; PM2.5
• ISSN: 0045-6535; 1879-1298
• DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2019.05.079

The physical, chemical and bioreactivity characteristics of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) collected near (<1 km) two landfill sites and downwind urban sites were investigated. The PM2.5 concentrations were significantly higher in winter than summer. Diurnal variations of PM2.5 were recorded at both landfill sites. Soot aggregate particles were identified near the landfill sites, which indicated that combustion pollution due to landfill activities was a significant source. High correlation coefficients (r) implied several inorganic elements and water-soluble inorganic ions (vanadium (V), copper (Cu), chloride (Cl−), nitrate (NO3−), sodium (Na) and potassium (K)) were positively associated with wind flow from the landfill sites. Nevertheless, no significant correlations were also identified between these components against DNA damage. Significant associations were observed between DNA damage and some heavy metals such as cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb), and total Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) during the summer. The insignificant associations of DNA damage under increased wind frequency from landfills suggested that the PM2.5 loading from sources such as regional sources was possibly an important contributing factor for DNA damage. This outcome warrants the further development of effective and source-specific landfill management regulations for particulate matter production control to the city. •Diurnal PM2.5 concentration variations were observed near the landfill sites.•Landfill combustion activities were significant sources of soot aggregate particles.•PAHs, Cd and Pb showed significant associations with DNA damage.•Regional source was possibly a dominant factor of DNA damage against from landfill.