Evaluation of the total Cr-levels in the ambient air in Belgium

Abstract As a part of the general network for the monitoring of heavy metals in the ambient air in Belgium, total Cr-levels were measured at 14 stations distributed over the country from April 1982 until March 1985. The most important statistical results are summarized and discussed. In two regions, Liege and Genk, with important ferrous industries, elevated chromium pollution with important peak values has been detected. In the last five years, a marked increase has been noted for the Liege region, while at the other sites only small changes occurred. The relationship between chromium and the other metals measured in the ambient air is examined and discussed. On the basis of pollution data an attempt of source identification is presented.