Studies on polution of water and air dust of Benghazi using various analytical methods Pt. 1

Nondestructive neutron activation analysis has been used for the analysis of 17 elements out of 24 elements in 12 samples of air particulate matter collected from various localities in Benghazi. Both relative and monostandard methods were used. The NAA was supplemented with graphite furnace atomic absorption, so that most toxic elements could be assayed in the same sample. Thus, Cd, Cr, Cu, Mn, Ni, Pb, V and Zn could be analyzed quantitatively in most samples. It was found that contamination of the atmosphere of Benghazi with dust is largely due to heavy construction works in the city, to the action of wind on the surface of land around the city and to the release of exhaust products from vehicles and airplanes. Particular contamination due to industrial activities was not noticable. The results from Benghazi were compared with those from Prague, Munich and Sendai. (author)