Vertical profiles of atmospheric mercury concentration

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Abstract
Vertical profiles of atmospheric mercury concentration determined with a lidar and point monitor systems in the mineralized region of Mt. Amiata (Italy) are reported. Measurements were performed over a large flat area, without arboreal and herbaceous vegetation, constituting a roasted cinnabar deposit which still contains about two parts per thousand of mercury. The determinations carried out with the two techniques yielded comparable results for the working conditions used. Data demonstrate the presence of a vertical gradient of atmospheric mercury concentration, which is particularly large in the layers of air nearest the soil. The highest values (45–1000 ng m−3) were measured a few centimeters from the soil, while background values (2–3 ng m13) were reached at heights of 10–20 m. The vertical gradient proved to be strongly dependent on ambient temperature.