Diffuse pollution is characterized by impurities from natural or anthropogenic origin. Through rain drops, particles are carried to water bodies. The quantification and characterization of this pollution source are hampered by the dispersion of particles in water. Asbestos is a group of minerals composed basically of hydrated magnesium silicate, it is found in several Brazilian products, and it is considered highly carcinogenic in any form. The aim of this study was to assess the contribution of the mineral on cement fiber tiles and in the brakes of older vehicles in the diffuse polution. The investigation was carried out in the river basin of the Belem River. Eight sampling points were chosen: four points for the analysis of traffic flow and four points to analyze roofs of buildings. In the results, could not identify theit was not possible to identify concentration of particles in the river waters, suggesting that these procedures should be supplemented by more specific analysis in future studies.
Diffuse Pollution; Asbesto; Cement Tile; Rio Belém
