Analytical Assessment of Trace Metals and Chemical Components in Particulate Matter from Al-Anbar's Urban Environment, Iraq

This study presents a comprehensive analytical and chemometric assessment of airborne particulate matter with aerodynamic diameters ≤2.5 µm (PM₂.₅) and ≤10 µm (PM₁₀) collected from the urban environment of Al-Anbar Province, Iraq.Trace metals (Pb, Cd, Ni, Cu, Fe, and Zn) were analyzed using AAS and TXRF, with each method applied based on element concentration and analytical suitability.The mean concentrations (µg/m³) in PM₂.₅ and PM₁₀ were Pb: 0.22/0.28,Cd: 0.05/0.07,Ni: 0.16/0.19,Cu: 0.48/0.66,Fe: 1.9/5.5, and Zn: 0.48/0.66.Enrichment factor (EF) analysis relative to aluminum revealed pronounced anthropogenic enrichment of Pb, Zn, and Cd (EF > 100), whereas Fe showed mixed crustal and industrial origins.Significant inter-element correlations (e.g., Pb-Zn, r = 0.86, p < 0.01; Ni-Fe, r = 0.73, p < 0.05) confirmed the combined influence of vehicular emissions and industrial activities.Major ionic species such as sulfate (SO₄²⁻), nitrate (NO₃⁻), and ammonium (NH₄⁺) dominated the fine fraction, while OC/EC ratios indicated active secondary organic aerosol formation.Overall, the findings provide an integrated analytical framework for source identification and chemical characterization of urban particulate matter in arid and semi-arid environments, emphasizing the necessity of continuous air-quality monitoring and emission-control measures in rapidly developing Iraqi cities.