Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in the surficial sediments of the Abadan freshwater resources − Northwest of the Persian Gulf

Abstract

This research focused on investigating the contamination levels, sources, and potential ecological and human health risks associated with 16 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) present in surficial sediments of the Abadan freshwater resources in the northwest of the Persian Gulf. The concentrations of ∑16PAHs varied between 67.8 and 57,748 ng/g with an average of 8222 ng/g. Approximately 30 % of the ∑16PAHs were attributed to seven carcinogenic PAHs. The predominant components of the PAHs found in the sediments were the 3- and 4-ring PAHs, which accounted for approximately 63 % of the total PAHs present in the surficial sediments. The diagnostic ratios and principal component analysis (PCA) indicate that the PAHs detected in the sediments originated from various sources, including traffic emissions, coal, and biomass combustion, petroleum leakage, and wastewater. According to our ecological risk assessment, substantial harm to the biota was observed in the Arvand River. An assessment of cancer risk indicated that both adults and children in Abadan area are exposed to a considerable cancer risk due to the presence of PAHs. In conclusion, ongoing monitoring of PAH pollution and implement measures to protect freshwater ecosystems near the Persian Gulf are essential.