Lead is a metal found naturally in the environment as well as
in manufactured products. The major sources of lead emissions
have historically been from fuels in on-road motor vehicles (such as cars
and trucks) and industrial sources. Emissions from on-road
vehicles decreased 99% between 1970 and 1995 due primarily to the
use of unleaded gasoline. Use of leaded gasoline in highway vehicles
was prohibited on December 31, 1995. The major sources of lead emissions
to the air today are ore and metals processing and piston-engine aircraft
operating on leaded aviation gasoline (lead is no longer used in on-road motor vehicle fuel).
The highest levels of lead in air are generally found near lead
smelters. Other stationary sources are waste incinerators, utilities,
and lead-acid battery manufacturers. Combustion and smelting processes
operate at high temperatures and emit submicron particulate matter
lead. Material handling and mechanical operations emit larger particles
of lead. |
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