Characterization and Source Identification of Toxic Elements in PM10 and Associated Health Risks in Educational Centers of an Industrial and Urban Area in Ilo, Peru

Particulate matter (PM10) is a major air pollutant affecting air quality and human health. This study assessed PM10 concentrations, composition, and health risks in 12 educational centers in Ilo, Peru, during the summer of 2017-2018. A total of 36 PM10 samples were collected, identifying eight potentially toxic elements (As, Cd, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, and Zn) using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES). PM10 levels were higher in the urban area (UP), with one episode exceeding the Peruvian standard (100 µg m-3) and six surpassing the World Health Organization (WHO) limit (50 µg m-3). Significant differences were found for As (0.013-0.016 µg m-3) and Zn (0.06-0.058 µg m-3) (p < 0.05). Source analysis identified metal smelting (As, Cd, Pb, Zn) and vehicular traffic (Ni, Mn) as major contributors. The health risk assessment showed Cu exceeded the safety threshold (hazard quotient (HQ) > 1) in both zones, with a hazard index (HI) of 4.71 (fenced industrial area (FI)) and 5.48 (UP). The carcinogenic risk (CR) for As and Cd was within acceptable limits (CR < 1 × 10-4) but requires monitoring. These findings highlight the need for pollution control strategies to protect the health of children in urban and industrial environments.