Multivariate extraction of dominant geochemical markers for deposition of 69 elements in the Bregalnica River basin, Republic of Macedonia (moss biomonitoring)

Atmospheric deposition was investigated using the terrestrial moss species Hypnum cupressiforme (Hedw.) and Homolothecium lutescens (Hedw.) in the Bregalnica River basin, Republic of Macedonia. Long-term emission occurs in this area due to the hydrothermal exploitation of Pb–Zn deposits (Sasa and Zletovo mines) and copper ore exploitation and floatation (Bučim mine). Determination of the chemical elements was conducted using atomic emission spectrometry with inductively coupled plasma (ICP-AES) and mass spectrometry with inductively coupled plasma (ICP-MS). A combination of multivariate techniques (PCA, FA and CA) was applied for data processing and identification of element association with lithogenic/anthropogenic origin. Seven dominant factors were extracted from the total of 69 analysed elements. Spatial distribution maps were constructed for the determination and localisation of smaller areas with higher contents of certain anthropogenic elements. In this way, the influences of selected human activities on local air pollution can be determined. The summarised data show quantification of the element distributions. This not only allows the determination of the distribution of hazardous elements but also presents complete characterisation of element deposition in the environs of mines.