CHARACTERIZING AIRBORNE PARTICULATE MATTER RELEASED FROM A RURAL LIMESTONE QUARRY AND CEMENT MANUFACTURING FACILITY IN GREENCASTLE, IN

Limestone quarries and cement manufacturing are global industries known for producing significant quantities of atmospheric particulate matter (PM) and greenhouse gases. Although PM is not routinely monitored locally, it remains a major source of air pollution that can cause adverse health effects and respiratory illnesses. The present study aims to identify and characterize the PM released from the Buzzi Unicem USA limestone quarry and cement manufacturing facility in Greencastle, Indiana.

Eight sample holders, fitted with carbon tape, were strategically placed around the perimeter (1 - 3km) of the Buzzi Unicem facility. Each sample holder passively collected PM for one month during the fall of 2022. Following the collection period, the samples were analyzed using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and an energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS). Our study identified the following PM types: mineral matter, organic/biological matter, and heavy metal particulates. The mineral matter was predominantly composed of carbonate and clay minerals particles. The organic matter is interpreted as fugitive dust particles originating from local agricultural practices. The heavy metal particles (e.g., Fe-Ti spherules) are interpreted to be from an unidentified industrial source.

Based on our preliminary results, we conclude that proximity to the emission site along with a prevailing western wind directly impacted particle distribution. Although we have documented the presence of industrial PM, these materials are not volumetrically significant and cannot yet be linked to the Buzzi Unicem facility. Continued work on this project will focus on characterizing the seasonal differences and the impact of wind patterns on identifying the origins of these particles.