Canadian Journal of Pure & Applied Sciences

Abstract: This paper explores the link between elevated atmospheric chromium levels and the growth of home-based industries in post-apartheid South Africa. Home industries and informal commercial operations have mushroomed in the new South Africa, and contributions of such activities to heavy metal atmospheric pollution is a novel consideration. A comparison of data from the apartheid era with our recently recorded results on heavy metal distribution revealed that atmospheric Cr levels were elevated, particularly in certain areas near schools, where such informal activities are flourishing.. Six sites were selected for the investigation, and high volume air samplers were used to collect air particulates on 0.80 ?m-pore size membrane filters. Sampling was conducted on a regular basis during office hours for about ten months. The collected filters were dried and prepared for subsequent acid digestion in 1M HNO3 in a microwave digester. The resulting solutions were subjected to metal analysis by electrothermal atomic absorption (ETAA). The experimentally determined Cr levels fell in the range: 0.02 – 1 ?g/m3, about a factor of 3 higher, in some cases, than the documented value (< 0.3 ?g/m3). Elemental chromium in the atmosphere can produce species known to be carcinogenic to humans, and could pose a significant threat. Levels of other toxic metals (Ni, Cd, Pb) were within acceptable limits. The potential impact of our research and suggestions for remediation are discussed.