LEVELS AND TRENDS OF MERCURY IN STREET DUST OF SOUTHERN MAINE

Mercury (Hg) is a ubiquitous environmental contaminant that is a result of industrial and vehicular emissions, and atmospheric deposition. Street dust particles bind to such metals due to their high organic content and surface area. Fine dust particles can be a hazard to human health as they can be ingested into the lungs and affect the nervous system. Furthermore, street dust sediment can be transported to aquatic ecosystems via stormwater runoff and subsequently affect wildlife. Street dust samples were collected various locations in Southern Maine. Samples were analyzed for mercury using direct mercury analysis (DMA-80, Milestone). Mercury levels vary greatly across Southern Maine, from 1.04 to 1139.16 ppb. Levels and trends indicate atmospheric deposition is the likely source.