Seasonal nitrogen dioxide concentrations in atmosphere in Kaunas, Lithuania and its relation with meteorological conditions

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to assess nitrogen dioxide concentrations in Kybartai town and examine its relation with meteorological conditions. We used a passive sampling method and triethanolamine as an absorbent. Sampling was carried out in 9 points of Kybartai town, 4 times per year during 2010-2011 years period. According to measured concentrations average seasonal and annual concentrations in Kybartai town were calculated. The study results showed that mean nitrogen dioxide concentration in Kybartai town was 13,3 μg/m3 . The highest mean seasonal concentration was found during autumn (16,0 μg/m3) and the lowest - during winter (10,0 μg/m3). There were classified three areas according to measured concentrations (area of intensive transport; area of residential home; area of background pollution). The highest NO2 concentration was in the area of intensive transport (average – 14,9 μg/m3). To examine relation between nitrogen dioxide concentration and meteorological conditions coefficients of correlation were calculated. We found correlation between nitrogen dioxide concentration and temperature (r= 0,294, p= 0,031). Relation between nitrogen dioxide concentration and rainfall and between nitrogen dioxide concentration and temperature was not found.