Potentially toxic element (PTEs) related health risk assessment from air conditioner filter dust in and around Chennai metropolitan

Abstract

We report the health risk assessment of air conditioner filter dust collected from different parts of Chennai city, Southern India, using geochemistry and magnetic properties as proxy. The particle size analysis indicates dust particles range from 0.5 μm to 955 μm and the dust grains falling in the range between 30 to 40 μm. The XRD results indicate that the dust samples contain magnetite, hematite, goethite, and trace elements. The hazard index (HI) of trace elements for child and adult determined in our study shows the probable risk for elements as: Cr > Pb > Ni > Cu > Zn. The daily exposure for inhalation [carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic LDD_inh] and cancer risk for inhalation (CR_inh) were showing high risk and health impact for Cr followed by Ni. It is suggested from the study that higher ventilation rate assisted by means of a mechanical system and use of air conditioners with regular cleaning can improve the living conditions in the Metropolitan areas.