Characterization, ratio analysis, and carcinogenic risk assessment of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon compounds bounded PM10 in a southwest of Iran

Abstract

Background/objectivesA group of environmental carcinogens are polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) that are formed during the incomplete combustion of organic materials. The aims of this study was evaluated the Characterization, ratio analysis, and carcinogenic risk assessment of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon compounds bounded PM10 in a southwest of Iran. MethodsIn this descriptive-cross-sectional study, was conducted in every 4 seasons. In each region, 20 air samples and a total of 40 samples were collected by the OMNI device in two regions. ResultsBased on result of this study in the cold season the average concentration total of PAHs was higher than in the hot season. Anthracene and fluorine with 4.70 and 4.25 ng/m3 in the cold season and naphthalene and anthracene with 4.07 and 3.48 ng/m3 in the warm season were the highest mean concentration among other organic compounds. The results of diagnostic ratios also showed that the main source PAHs of in the air of Shushtar city is fossil fuel and the use of gasoline cars. ConclusionAccording to the results the mean amount of PAHs in the cold season is higher than in the hot season, and the effects of temperature on it can aggravate these pollutants. Considering that PAHs are mainly produced as a result of the use of fossil fuels and transportation, it is necessary to pay more attention to these pollutants and control the sources of their emission. It is also necessary to create a culture in society in order to increase the use of public transportation.