Abstract

An evaluation of the air quality in the mega-industrial area of Quintero-Puchuncav & iacute; is presented through the analysis of the concentration levels of PM (10) , PM (2.5) , SO (2) , CO, O- 3 and NO 2 registered at 10 sites of the official air quality monitoring network in the area between 2010 and 2021. Particulate fractions and sulfur dioxide have been identified as the most critical pollutants. The daily concentration levels of PM (2.5) and SO (2) registered >50 and 300 exceedances per year, respectively, demonstrating the acute nature of the exposure of the population living in the area. The seasonal variability of PM (10) , PM( 2.5 )and SO (2) is characterized by higher concentration levels in the autumn and winter months, especially during the nights and early mornings in low ventilation or calm conditions. The concentration levels of PM 10 , PM (2.5) and SO 2 during acute intoxication events does not explain the symptoms of intoxication of patients who have been filling the health care centers in the area since 2011. The concentrations of noncriteria pollutants under conditions of atmospheric stability and low ventilation must be studied in depth to understand the origin of the intoxications, assign responsibilities, and avoid their occurrence in the future.