Variability of magnetic susceptibility and its correlation with selected heavy metals in atmospheric dust of Kerman

Dust deposition causes great difficulties for humans in urban regions. The objective of this research was to assess the temporal and spatial distribution of magnetic susceptibility (MS) of atmospheric dust deposited in Kerman. Samples were collected monthly from 35 different locations distributed over the urban area of Kerman for 7 months. Total concentrations of major heavy metals including Cu, Pb, Zn, Ni and Mn as well as the magnetic susceptibility of the samples were measured. The results showed that atmospheric deposits had the highest MS in November and the lowest one in July and August following the same trend as that of heavy metals Cu, Pb and Zn. The results also showed that the highest MS values were obtained for the dust samples from the west of Kerman where the concentration of Cu, Pb and Zn in dust was also high. Considering the role of human activities in increasing pollutants concentration in Kerman, proper management practices should be exercised to reduce air pollution resulting from various industries.