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Abstract :
[en] The Misten peat bog provides a record of atmospheric deposition in the Hautes Fagnes Plateau (East Belgium). A composite 185cm core (W01/01b) was studied for its trace metal content (TM) and its lead isotopic signature. The peat bog accumulation allows following the history of atmospheric TM deposition during the last 2500 years. TM enrichment factors coupled with a continuous decrease in 206Pb/204Pb, 207Pb/204Pb,208Pb/204Pb isotopic ratios from 494-732AD to1969-1977 AD evidence the increasing importance of TM released by anthropogenic activities. The highest concentrations of TM are found near the surface of the bog; at depths from 30 to 19 cm. Historical records of Cu, Zn, As, Sb, and Pb atmospheric flux during the Industrial Revolution and pre-industrial periods were derived. Maximum fluxes (up to 7.3, 89, 2.4, 1.5, and 116 mg.m-2.y-1, respectively) occurred in peat layers dated from 1619-1877AD to 1992-2000AD, reflecting anthropogenic emissions from diverse sources such as mining, coal combustion, and emissions from the use of leaded gasoline. The TM enrichment factors also increased significantly during the Industrial Revolution until a reduction at the end of the 70’S due to the progressive abolition of the leaded gasoline.