Pollution of nitrogen dioxide in Kaunas in 2008

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to assess nitrogen dioxide concentration in Kaunas city and examine its relation with meteorological conditions. We used a passive sampling method and triethanolamine as an absorbent. Sampling was carried out in 62 points of Kaunas city, 4 times per year during 2008 year period. According to measured concentration average seasonal and annual concentration in Kaunas districts and in the whole city was calculated. The study results showed that mean NO2 concentration in Kaunas city was 18.0 µg/m3. The highest mean seasonal concentration was found during spring (33,1 µg/m3) and the lowest - during summer (11,1 µg/m3). The highest NO2 concentration was in Centras (32,8 µg/m3), the lowest in Panemune - (9,7 µg/m3). Using Arc GIS software map of nitrogen dioxide pollution dispersion in Kaunas city was plotted (according annual mean of nitrogen dioxide concentration). There were classified five areas, according the threshold value concentration (TV=40,0 µg/m3). We found a negative correlation between nitrogen dioxide concentration and precipitation (r= -0,364, p= 0,006). Correlation between nitrogen dioxide concentration wind speed and temperature was non significant.