Emission characteristics and temporal variation of PAHs and their derivatives from an ocean-going cargo vessel

Abstract

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), nitro- (NPAHs) and oxy-derivatives (OPAHs) are of considerable concern due to their toxicity and carcinogenic hazards. Ships are recognized as an important emission source of these compounds. Marine diesel oil (MDO) and heavy fuel oil (HFO) are the two most commonly used fuels. The emission characteristics and toxicities of PM2.5-bound PAHs, NPAHs and OPAHs due to HFO and MDO combustion in atypical ocean-going vessel were investigated. The EF variability of polycyclic aromatic compounds (PACs) varied considerably with the fuel formulation (HFO and MDO) and engine loading (20%–100%). The concentration of ΣPACs was 0.63 mg/kWh for MDO and ranged from 2.14 to 9.80 mg/kWh for HFO. Compared to HFO-20%, the EFs of ΣPAHs, ΣNPAHs and ΣOPAHs from MDO-20% were reduced by 97%, 77% and 73%, respectively. As identified through the coefficient of divergence, the profile of HFO-20% was notably different from those under the other three engine loadings for HFO. In addition, the emissions of ΣPAHs and ΣOPAHs showed a significant correlation with PM2.5, while they were relatively weak for ΣNPAHs. However, the CO and PAC emissions were not highly correlated. Furthermore, the BaPeq-ΣPAHs values were 0.010 mg/g for MDO and ranged from 0.092 mg/g to 0.306 mg/g for HFO, and the reduction ranged from 89% to 97% by substituting MDO for HFO. These data highlight the importance of improving fuel quality in close proximity to port areas and are useful for enhancing relevant databases.