Published in Scientific Papers. Series E. Land Reclamation, Earth Observation & Surveying, Environmental Engineering, Vol. XIV
Written by Mihaela PREDA, Veronica TĂNASE, Nicoleta Olimpia VRÎNCEANU, Florența JAFRI, Mihaela COSTEA, Bogdan-Ștefan OPREA
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are organic pollutants composed of two or more aromatic rings of carbon and hydrogen atoms. PAHs are characterized by low water solubility, low vapor pressure, high melting and boiling points. As the molecular mass increases, the lipophilic character increases, making them more persistent in the environment. Incomplete combustion is the main source of PAHs. This study evaluates PAHs contamination in soil samples collected from 30 locations in Bucharest, focusing on potential pollution sources such as industrial activities, vehicular emissions, and domestic sources. Industrial zones and high-traffic areas recorded the highest total PAH concentrations at 1.06 mg/kg and 1.01 mg/kg, respectively. Diagnostic ratios analysis suggests combustion as the predominant source of PAHs.
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