Levels Of Benzene Research Articles

Prenatal exposure to air pollutants and the second to fourth digit ratio in adult women

The study aimed to analyse the association between the digit ratio in adult women and the degree of air pollution (suspended particulate matter, sulphur dioxide, nitric dioxide, benzene levels) in the place of residence of their mothers during pregnancy. The data was collected from female students in several Polish cities. Measurements were taken, and questionnaire data were collected. 2D:4D ratios were calculated for the left and the right hand. The ratio was analysed as a continuous variables. Air quality information was retrieved from reports by the Chief Inspectorate for Environmental Protection. Statistically significant differences both in right- and left-hand 2D:4D ratio were found for PM10 and benzene. In addition, the right-hand 2D:4D differed significantly depending on PM2.5. The association between digit ratio and the complex air pollution index was also found. Poor air quality was associated with higher values of the ratio. Our results indicate that a high airborne pollutant level, especially suspended particulate matter, is associated with a higher digit ratio.

Health Risk Assessment of Ambient Air Benzene Among Primary School Children in Urban and Rural Areas in Johor, Malaysia

Introduction: It is a fact that children are vulnerable, and are at risk from benzene, a volatile, carcinogenic organic compound. The aim of our study is to determine the levels of ambient air benzene and examine the non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risks involved Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in two urban and two rural primary schools in Johor, Malaysia. Benzene concentrations were measured using BUCK Libra L-4 pumps and analyzed in the gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Data were collected from 334 10-12 year old children, to calculate the exposure levels based on their body weights and heights. The hazard quotient (HQ) served to evaluate the non-carcinogenic risks, whereas the lifetime cancer risk (LCR) was determined with the aid of the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA). Results and Discussion: Benzene concentrations were higher in rural than urban areas, surpassing the European Union (EU) standard of 5 μg/m³. It was also established that the highest average levels recorded were 6.89 ± 6.68 μg/m³. The HQ values, nonetheless, had indicated no immediate non-carcinogenic risk, while LCR estimates were found to be within a tolerable range across all sites. Findings showed that although the immediate risk from benzene exposure is low, long-term exposure still poses a significant cancer risk to children; even low levels of chronic exposure can heighten the likelihood of children to develop cancers. Conclusion: This study has produced a revelation that there are elevated benzene levels in rural areas in Johor. Despite the low, immediate non-carcinogenic risks, further investigation on the potential for long-term cancer risks is warranted. These risks can be addressed by conducting stricter air quality monitoring, enhancing vehicle emission standards, and introducing educational programs that can raise awareness about benzene exposure.

Pipeline-Related Residential Benzene Exposure and Groundwater Natural Attenuation Capacity in the Eastern Niger Delta, Nigeria

This study was conducted to investigate the presence of benzene in the ground and drinking water in the eastern Niger Delta, where multiple oil and gas production facilities are present. Samples from drinking water wells were collected for measurements of benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylenes (BTEX). Additionally, the dissolved organic carbon (DOC) concentration was determined for the first time to establish the groundwater’s total hydrocarbon and non-hydrocarbon load. The groundwater BTEX and benzene levels were up to 3904 µg/L and 3500 µg/L, respectively. DOC concentrations were up to 49 mg/L. The highest benzene concentrations were detected in wells near an underground petroleum pipeline. However, the concentrations decreased with distance from the pipeline to levels less than 0.1 µg/L. Despite benzene contamination, the aquifer has shown promising aerobic attenuation potential, having up to a 7.5 (95%) mg/L DO level and 2.11 mg/L BTEX biodegradation capacity for DO. However, the high groundwater temperature of up to 32.5 °C may weaken attenuation. The benzene and BTEX point attenuation rates ranged from 0.128 to 0.693 day−1 and 0.086 to 0.556 day−1, respectively. Hence, by natural attenuation alone, up to 66.5 and 85 years would be required to reach Nigeria’s groundwater benzene and BTEX remediation goals, respectively.

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) and Serum Leukotriene B4 between COPD Patients and COPD with Lung Cancer Patients

Introduction: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is estimated to become the third leading cause of death worldwide in 2030. COPD can affect the lungs and cause chronic systemic inflammation. Leukotriene B4 (LTB4) is involved in COPD and lung cancer pathogenesis. There has been the development of non-invasive methods for detecting lung disease in the last few decades, such as the examination of volatile organic compounds (VOC). This study aimed to analyze the serum LTB4 and the difference of VOCs in exhaled breath of stable COPD patients and COPD with lung cancer patients. Methods: This case-control study recruited 20 stable COPD patients and 20 patients with COPD and lung cancer. An exhaled breath sample was collected in Tedlar bags and analyzed using an arrayed sensor breath analyzer to check the concentration of VOCs. Meanwhile, a venous blood sample was collected to examine the level of LTB4 using an ELISA kit. Independent t-test and Mann-Whitney test were used to analyze the data. Results: The carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), carbon monoxide (CO), benzene (C6H6), and propane (C3H8) levels were significantly different (p <0.05) in COPD-only patients compared to COPD with lung cancer patients. Serum LTB4 increased in both groups. Conclusion: CO2, CO, and C3H8 levels increased, but the NO2 level decreased in COPD patients with lung cancer compared to COPD-only patients. Serum LTB4 increased in COPD with lung cancer patients.

Air quality in a small city: criteria pollutants, volatile organic compounds, metals, and microbes.

This work presents a year-long integral study of air quality parameters in Ciudad Real, a small city in the center of Spain, and its influence on the nearby national park, Las Tablas de Daimiel. The study covers meteorological parameters and criteria pollutants such as O3, NO, NO2, SO2, and PM10. Additionally, for each month, a 1-week campaign was performed sampling air in sorbent tubes with 8-h time resolution to analyze anthropogenic volatile organic compounds and the effects of seasons, daytime, and working-weekend days. During these campaigns, 24-h PM2.5 samples were also collected to measure the load of bacteria and fungi, as well as the trace concentrations of elements.The city and the national park NOx profiles showed that emissions from the town had a non-perceivable effect on the protected area. PM10 levels in Ciudad Real were influenced by Saharan intrusions, as was the national park; however, Ciudad Real had a higher contribution from anthropogenic sources. Ozone levels were lower in the city during the cold season due to the higher concentration of NOx and have not changed significantly in the last decade.The VOCs with higher average concentrations were toluene, m,p-xylene, benzene, methylene chloride, and o-xylene, with traffic being the main source of these pollutants in the city. For benzene and carbon tetrachloride levels, weak carcinogenic risks were estimated. In PM2.5, the most abundant metals were Na, Zn, Mg, Ca, Al, Fe, and K. The carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risks estimated from the levels of the studied metals were negligible. Bacterial and fungal counts positively correlated with the concentration of PM2.5. Microbial community composition showed seasonal variability, with the dominance of human pathogenic bacteria which correlated with certain pollutants such as SO2. Bacillus and Cutibacterium were the most abundant genera.

First exploratory study of gaseous pollutants (NO2, SO2, O3, VOCs and carbonyls) in the Luanda metropolitan area by passive monitoring

An air quality monitoring campaign for gaseous pollutants using passive sampling techniques was carried out, for the first time, at 25 locations in the metropolitan area of Luanda, Angola, in June 2023. Concentrations of benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, xylenes, trimethylbenzenes, SO2 and NO2 were generally higher in locations more impacted by traffic. Benzene, SO2 and NO2 levels did not exceed the World Health Organisation guidelines. Ozone concentrations surpassed those documented for other African regions. Higher O3 formation potential values were recorded at heavy-trafficked roads. The top 5 species with potential for ozone formation were m,p-xylene, toluene, formaldehyde, propionaldehyde and butyraldehyde. The Mulenvos landfill presented a distinctive behaviour with a very low toluene/benzene ratio (0.47), while values close to 5 were obtained at traffic sites. The maximum levels of α-pinene, D-limonene, formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, acetone, acrolein, propionaldehyde, butyraldehyde, benzaldehyde, valeraldehyde, hexaldehyde and crotonaldehyde were recorded at the landfill. The formaldehyde/acetaldehyde ratio ranged from 0.40 at the Mulenvos landfill to 3.0, averaging 1.8, which is a typical value for urban atmospheres. Acetaldehyde/propionaldehyde ratios around 0.4–0.6 were found in locations heavily impacted by traffic, whereas values between 0.7 and 1.2 were observed in green residential areas and in places with more rural characteristics. All hazard quotient (HQ) values were in the range from 1 to 10, indicating moderate risk of developing non-cancer diseases. The exception was the Mulenvos landfill for which a HQ of 11 was obtained (high risk). The cancer risks exceeded the tolerable level of 1 × 10−4, with special concern for the landfill and sites most impacted by traffic. A mean lifetime cancer risk of 9 × 10−4 was obtained. The cancer risk was mainly due to naphthalene, which accounted, on average, for 94.6% of the total.

Preliminary Assessment of Tunic Off-Gassing after Wildland Firefighting Exposure

Evidence has previously shown that outer tunics (turnout coats) worn by firefighters at structural fires are contaminated with harmful chemicals which subsequently off-gas from the material. However, there is limited research on whether this phenomenon extends to wildland firefighter uniforms. This pilot study aimed to explore if the tunics of volunteer bushfire and forestry firefighters in Western Australia off-gas any contaminants after exposure to prescribed burns or bushfires, and whether there is a need to explore this further. Nine tunics were collected from firefighters following nine bushfire and prescribed burn events, with a set of unused tunics serving as a control. Chemical analysis was performed on these tunics to assess levels of acrolein, benzene, formaldehyde, and sulphur dioxide contamination. The assessment involved measuring chemical off-gassing over a 12 h period using infrared spectrometry. Tunics worn by firefighters appear to adsorb acrolein, benzene, formaldehyde, and sulphur dioxide from bushfire smoke and these contaminants are emitted from firefighting tunics following contamination at elevated concentrations. Further investigation of this research with a larger study sample will be beneficial to understand this phenomenon better and to determine the full extent and range of chemical contaminants absorbed by all firefighter clothing.

Качество атмосферного воздуха и риск развития болезней системы кровообращения у населения крупного города европейского севера

Cardiovascular diseases are the most frequent causes of premature mortality associated with ambient air quality. In the Arkhangelsk region, population mortality caused by diseases of the circulatory system is higher than the national average. The aim of this study was to assess ambient air quality in Arkhangelsk and associated health harm in adult population. The study relied on using data of ambient air monitoring in Arkhangelsk collected over 2011–2022. We analyzed average annual levels of 23 pollutants and primary incidence of diseases of the circulatory system (CVD) and calculated hazard quotients under chronic inhalation exposure (HQ), hazard index (HI) for the cardiovascular system, and the number of attributable deaths associated with exposure to PM10 and PM2.5. Over the analyzed period, the average long-term concentrations of most pollutants met hygienic standards. Average levels of formaldehyde, chromium, copper and benzene were found to exceed the MPL by 1.5–2.3 times. Hazard coefficients for formaldehyde (HQ = 2.3), copper (HQ = 1.8) and PM2.5 (HQ = 1.7) were established to be above their permissible value. The risk of developing general toxic effects is determined to be high (HI = 6.6) for the cardiovascular system. The main contribution to the risk level is made by copper and PM2.5. Attributable outcomes of primary cardiovascular incidence among the adult population of Arkhangelsk associated with exposure to PM10 and PM2.5 equaled 10.7 and 2.9 ‰ cases per year. The greatest harm under exposure to PM2.5 is due to the development of coronary artery disease and amounts to 1.9 ‰ cases per year.

Ambient air quality and risk of circulatory diseases for population of a large city in the European north of Russia

Cardiovascular diseases are the most frequent causes of premature mortality associated with ambient air quality. In the Arkhangelsk region, population mortality caused by diseases of the circulatory system is higher than the national average. The aim of this study was to assess ambient air quality in Arkhangelsk and associated health harm in adult population. The study relied on using data of ambient air monitoring in Arkhangelsk collected over 2011–2022. We analyzed average annual levels of 23 pollutants and primary incidence of diseases of the circulatory system (CVD) and calculated hazard quotients under chronic inhalation exposure (HQ), hazard index (HI) for the cardiovascular system, and the number of attributable deaths associated with exposure to PM10 and PM2.5. Over the analyzed period, the average long-term concentrations of most pollutants met hygienic standards. Average levels of formaldehyde, chromium, copper and benzene were found to exceed the MPL by 1.5–2.3 times. Hazard coefficients for formaldehyde (HQ = 2.3), copper (HQ = 1.8) and PM2.5 (HQ = 1.7) were established to be above their permissible value. The risk of developing general toxic effects is determined to be high (HI = 6.6) for the cardiovascular system. The main contribution to the risk level is made by copper and PM2.5. Attributable outcomes of primary cardiovascular incidence among the adult population of Arkhangelsk associated with exposure to PM10 and PM2.5 equaled 10.7 and 2.9 ‰ cases per year. The greatest harm under exposure to PM2.5 is due to the development of coronary artery disease and amounts to 1.9 ‰ cases per year.

Impact of environmental exposures on exhaled breath and lung function: NELA Birth Cohort

Exposure to environmental exposures (i.e.air pollution and second-hand tobacco smoke) have been associated with impaired lung function. However, the impact of environmental factors on lung health is usually evaluated separately and not with an exposomic framework. In this regard, breath analysis could be a non-invasive tool for biomonitoring of global human environmental exposure.Data come from 337 mother–child pairs from the NELA birth cohort. Levels of BTEX (benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene and xylenes) in exhaled breath from mothers and children at 3 months after birth were estimated using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Short-term residential exposures (breath sampling day and 15 days before breath sampling) to nitrogen dioxide (NO2), particulate matter (PM2.5), and ozone (O3) were determined by chemical dispersion/transport modelling. Forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume at 0.5 s (FEV0.5) and forced expiratory flow at 75% of FVC (FEF75) and at 25%–75% of FVC (FEF25-75) were measured in infants according to the raised-volume rapid thoracoabdominal compression technique.The results showed significant associations between short-term exposure to external agents and levels of benzene and toluene in exhaled breath. It was observed that exhaled levels of benzene and toluene were influenced by smoking status and outdoor air pollution in mothers, and by air pollution in infants (3 months of age). No significant relationship was observed between exposure to maternal tobacco smoking and/or short-term air pollution and lung function in healthy infants. However, there was a significant relationship between FEV0.5and exhaled toluene in children.These findings indicated a significant relationship between environmental exposures and exhaled levels of benzene and toluene, suggesting that breath analysis could be a helpful exposure biomonitoring tool.

No evidence for an association between benzoyl peroxide use and increased blood benzene levels in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey

No evidence for an association between benzoyl peroxide use and increased blood benzene levels in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey

Exposure to Volatile Organic Compounds May Contribute to Atopic Dermatitis in Adults.

Volatile organic compounds (VOC) are major indoor air pollutants. Previous studies reported an association between VOC exposure and allergic diseases. Here, we aimed to explore the relationship between VOC exposure and atopic dermatitis (AD) in adults. We prospectively enrolled 31 adult AD patients and 11 healthy subjects as controls. Urine metabolite levels of VOCs, including 1.3-butadiene, acrylamide, benzene, toluene, and xylene, were all determined with liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. The relationship between AD and log-transformed urine levels of VOC metabolites were examined using a multivariate linear regression model adjusted for age and sex. We also treated mouse bone marrow-derived cells (BMMCs) with 1,3-butadiene and toluene and measured the release of β-hexosaminidase. Our results demonstrated that creatinine-corrected urine levels of N-Acetyl-S- (3,4-dihydroxybutyl)-L-cysteine (DHBMA), N-Acetyl-S-(2-carbamoyl-2-hydroxyethyl)-L-cysteine (GAMA), and N-Acetyl-S-(benzyl)-L-cysteine (BMA) were all elevated in AD patients compared with controls. In a multivariate linear regression model, creatinine-corrected urine levels of BMA (a toluene metabolite) and DHBMA (a 1,3-butadiene metabolite) appeared elevated in AD patients, although statistical significance was not reached after correction for multiple comparisons. In addition, 1,3-butadiene and toluene could stimulate BMMCs to degranulate as much as compound 48/80. Some VOCs, such as 1,3-butadiene and toluene, might be associated with AD pathogenesis in adults.

Relationship between benzene concentration, MDA levels and kidney function in car painting workshops in Surabaya: A cross-sectional observational study

Background Car painting workers are at risk because of the use of solvents containing benzene as the main ingredient in the car painting process. One of the clinical effects of systemic benzene is kidney disorders. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to analyze the relationship between benzene and Risk Quotient (RQ) benzene concentrations with Malondialdehyde (MDA), Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN), and creatinine levels in workers exposed to benzene in car painting workshops in Surabaya. Methods This study used an observational design with a cross-sectional method conducted at two car paint workshops in Surabaya. The study population was all workers exposed to benzene in the two car paint workshops, aged between 20-65 years in 2019. The sample was taken using an accidental sampling method, involving 30 respondents. Inclusion criteria included workers exposed to benzene and willing to participate, while exclusion criteria included workers with a liver or kidney disease history. The variables studied included benzene concentration, benzene RQ (benzene metabolite), malondialdehyde (MDA) levels as a marker of oxidative stress, and indicators of kidney function (BUN and creatinine levels). Data were analyzed using descriptive and bivariate analysis with Pearson correlation test. Results There was no significant relationship between concentrations, RQ benzene, and MDA levels in workers in painting in Surabaya (p> 0.05). There was no significant relationship between benzene concentration, BUN levels, and creatinine levels in paint workers in Surabaya (p> 0.05). There was no significant relationship between benzene RQ and BUN and creatinine levels in paint workers in Surabaya (p> 0.05). Conclusions This study's results indicate that benzene's effects do not lead to impaired kidney function. The benzene RQ variable in this study did not become a determining factor in BUN and creatinine levels in workers.

Downstream natural gas composition across U.S. and Canada: implications for indoor methane leaks and hazardous air pollutant exposures

Previous research has shown that natural gas (NG) leaks from residential appliances are common, affecting greenhouse gas emission inventories and indoor air quality. To study these implications, we collected and analyzed 587 unburned NG samples from 481 residences over 17 North American cities for hydrocarbons, hazardous air pollutants, and organosulfur odorants. Nearly all (97% of) gas samples contained benzene (between-city mean: 2335 ppbv [95% CI: 2104, 2607]) with substantial variability between cities. Vancouver, Los Angeles, Calgary, and Denver had at least 2x higher mean benzene concentrations than other cities sampled, with Vancouver exhibiting a nearly 50x greater mean benzene level than the lowest-concentration city (Boston). We estimate that current U.S. and Canadian emissions inventories are missing an additional 25 000 [95% CI: 19 000, 34 000] and 4000 [95% CI: 3700, 5200] lbs benzene yr−1 through downstream NG leakage, respectively. Concentrations of odorants added for leak detection varied substantially across cities, indicating a lack of standardization. Houston, for instance, had 5x higher mean tert-butyl mercaptan levels than Toronto. Using these odorant measurements, we found that methane emissions as high as 0.0080–0.28 g h−1 and indoor benzene enhancements 0.0096–0.11 ppbv could go undetected by persons with an average sense of smell, with large uncertainties driven by smelling sensitivity, gas composition, and household conditions. We also observed larger leaks (>10 ppm ambient methane) in ∼4% of surveyed homes, confirming that indoor leakage occurs at varying degrees despite the presence of odorants. Overall, our results illustrate the importance of downstream NG composition to understand potential emissions, exposures, and odor-mediated leak detection levels. Given methane’s global warming potency, benzene’s toxicity, and wide variation in smelling abilities, our findings highlight the deficiencies regarding the sole reliance on odorization to alert and protect all occupants from indoor leaks.

Environmental Levels of Volatile Organic Compounds, Race, and Socioeconomic Markers Correlate with Areas of High Colorectal Cancer Incidence.

Ambient levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released from nearby industrial plants have shown positive associations with increased colorectal cancer (CRC) rates. The objective of this study is to analyze the distribution of CRC in the context of socioeconomic status and its correlation with community environmental data. A retrospective study analyzed CRC patients from 2021 to 2023. The census tracts of the patients' residential addresses were obtained, and CRC rates were calculated for each census tract. Socioeconomic data was gathered on these communities. Environmental VOC measurements were obtained from the National Scale Air Toxics Assessment. All datapoints were compared to statewide levels. Three census tracts in the county had higher CRC cases comparatively. These areas exhibited higher incidence rates and localized clusters of CRC cases, higher distribution of Black or African Americans, lower household incomes, lower home values, and lower educational attainment. VOC measurements in these census tracts had higher levels compared to county and state averages: specifically, 10.68% higher than county and 48.07% higher than state benzene levels (0.52 µg/m3 clusters vs 0.47µg/m3 county vs 0.35 µg/m3 state), 10.84% and 129.15% higher toluene (1.65 µg/m3 vs 1.49 vs 0.72 µg/m3), and 15.64% and 141.87% higher butadiene (0.048 µg/m3 vs 0.041 µg/m3 vs 0.020 µg/m3). This study illustrates a positive correlation between higher ambient exposure to VOCs with increased CRC incidence. These findings underscore the potential interplay of environmental factors, socioeconomic determinants, and environmental injustice when considering strategies to address health disparities and CRC incidence.

Increase of the indoor concentration of volatile organic compounds after the use of incense and scented candle in studio apartments determined using passive sampling

Burning incenses and scented candles may provide harmful chemicals. Although many studies have evaluated volatile organic chemicals emitted by their use and related health risks, extension of our understanding for guiding appropriate use under various use conditions is necessary. In this study, emission characteristics of commercial incenses and scented candles were evaluated in a laboratory chamber using real-time measurement and the time-weighted average exposure concentrations of monoaromatic compounds and monoterpenes were assessed using passive samplers while volunteers living in a studio apartment use them. After burning incense, the average levels of benzene increased from 1.4 to 100 μg m−3. The presence of a wood core in commercial incense products was the main cause of high benzene emission by burning them although the increase in benzene was also influenced by factors such as the brand of the products, the number of incense sticks burned, the duration of each burning session, and ventilation period. Electrical warming of scented candles increased the levels of monoterpenes by factors of 16–30 on average. Considering the emission characteristics found in this study, exposure to benzene and monoterpenes could be mitigated by cautious use of those products in residential areas.

Effect of Volatile Organic Compounds on Pulmonary Functions Among Paint Industry Workers of Unorganized Sectors.

Background Paint industry workers are constantly exposed to paints and organic solvents that contain a substantial quantity of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Exposure to VOC emissions could result in pulmonary, neurobehavioral, and hematological consequences. Limited studies have been undertaken in India to assess the health consequences of VOCs among paint industry workers in unorganized sectors. Aim To assess the effects of VOCs on pulmonary function in paint industry workers of unorganized sectors. Methodology A hundred and twenty full-time male construction painters and small-scale paint manufacturing workers aged 25-60 were assessed for respiratory symptoms using a questionnaire, and pulmonary functions using Wright's Peak Expiratory Flow Meter (PEFR). Participants were randomly selected forVOC assessment andthe cumulative solvent exposure index was calculated. A pulmonary function test (PFT) was performed on a subset of construction painters (n=30) using a Koko spirometer. Results The concentration of VOCs such as benzene, ethylbenzene, toluene, and xylene (BETX) and dichloromethane levels exceeded American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH)threshold limit values (TLVs) among the paint manufacturing workers. About 52% of paint workers reported respiratory symptoms. Around 22% of the participants showedreduced pulmonary function (PEFR<400 L/min). There was a significant weaknegativecorrelationbetween PEFR andwork experience (r = -0.2, p=0.03). PFT parameters among a subset of construction painters revealed a significant moderate negative correlation with work experience [forced expiratory volume at the onset of the first second (FEV1) (r = -0.6, p=0.001) and forced vital capacity (FVC) (r = -0.53, p=0.005)] and cumulative VOC exposure index [FEV1 (r = -0.53, p = 0.004) and FVC (r = -0.5, p = 0.008)]. Conclusion The concentration of VOCs was higher among paint industry workers of unorganized sectors and they reported respiratory symptoms and diminished pulmonary function. To reduce morbidity, it is critical to enhance awareness about occupational safety and services in these unorganized sectors.

BTEX Assessment among Informal Charcoal-Burning Food Traders for Cleaner and Sustainable Environment

This study assessed the cleaner and sustainable environment by measuring emission levels of benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene (BTEX) from informal food traders using charcoal as the primary source of energy at a flea market in Fordsburg, Johannesburg. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were measured using a real-time monitor (MiniRae 3000 photoionization detector); an indoor air quality (IAQ) monitor was used to monitor environmental parameters and passive samplers in the form of Radiello badges, which were used to determine BTEX emissions from charcoal used during food preparation. Measurements were taken at 1.5 m above ground assuming the receptor’s breathing circumference using PID and Radiello. PID data were downloaded and analyzed using Microsoft Excel(Version 2019). Radiellos were sent to the laboratory to determine the BTEX levels from the total VOCs. The total volatile organic compound (TVOC) concentration over the combustion cycle was 306.7 ± 62.8 ppm. The flaming phase had the highest VOC concentration (547 ± 110.46 ppm), followed by the ignition phase (339.44 ± 40.6 ppm) and coking with the lowest concentration (24.64 ± 14.3). The average BTEX concentration was 15.7 ± 5.9 µg/m3 corresponding to the entire combustion cycle. BTEX concentrations were highest at the flaming phase (23.6 µg/m3) followed by the ignition (13.4 µg/m3) and coking phase (9.45 µg/m3). Ignition phase versus the flaming phase, there was a significant difference at 95% at a p-value of 0.09; ignition phase versus the coking phase, there was a significant difference at 95% at a p-value of 0.039; and coking phase versus the flaming phase, there was a significant difference at 95% at a p-value of 0.025. When compared to the occupational exposure limits (OELs), none of the exposure concentrations (BTEX) were above the 8 h exposure limit. The findings of this study suggest that charcoal, as a source of energy, can still be a useful and sustainable fuel for informal food traders. Shortening the ignition and flaming phase duration by using a fan to supply sufficient air can further reduce exposure to VOCs.

Temporal Variations in Urban Air Pollution during a 2021 Field Campaign: A Case Study of Ethylene, Benzene, Toluene, and Ozone Levels in Southern Romania

This study focused on quantifying the gas concentrations of ethylene, benzene, toluene, and ozone within an urban area in the southern region of Romania. The gas sampling campaign, conducted between March and August 2021, took place in three different locations from the point of view of the architectural structure, and the sampling height was 1.5 m. Sampling occurred on weekdays (Monday through Friday) during daylight hours, with subsequent concentration analysis employing descriptive statistics, diurnal cycles, and seasonal assessments. A highly sensitive and selective detector, employing laser photoacoustic spectroscopy, was utilized to monitor pollutants. The average concentrations (±Standard Deviation) were determined as follows: ethylene at 116.82 ± 82.37 parts per billion (ppb), benzene at 1.13 ± 0.32 ppb, toluene at 5.48 ± 3.27 ppb, and ozone at 154.75 ± 68.02 ppb, with peak levels observed during the summer months. Diurnal patterns were observable for ethylene, benzene, and toluene, exhibiting higher concentrations during the early hours of the day followed by a decrease towards the evening. In contrast, ozone concentrations peaked in the evening compared to the early part of the day. Thus, perceptible effects were demonstrated on gas concentrations as a result of the influence of meteorological variables. Moreover, the high toluene/benzene ratio indicated traffic and industrial emissions as primary sources of these pollutants. Of the four gases monitored, benzene and ozone exceeded regulatory limits, particularly during the summer season, highlighting concerns regarding air quality in the studied urban environment.

Benzene: A critical review on measurement methodology, certified reference material, exposure limits with its impact on human health and mitigation strategies.

Benzene is a carcinogenic pollutant with significant emission sources present in the atmosphere. The need for accurate and precise measurement of benzene in the atmosphere has become increasingly evident due to its toxicity and the adverse health effects associated with exposure to different concentrations. Certified reference material (CRM) is essential to establish the traceability of measurement results. The present review compiles the available national and international measurement methods, certified reference materials (CRMs) for benzene and the limit of benzene in fuel composition (v/v) worldwide. Overall, the review indicates the benzene level in the atmosphere and the resulting impacts on the environment and human health, which frequently exceed the exposure limits of different environment regulatory agencies. An extensive literature review was conducted to gather information on monitoring and analysis methods for benzene, revealing that the most preferred method, i.e. Gas Chromatography- Flame Ionization Detector and Mass Spectrometry, is neither cost-effective nor suitable for real-time continuous monitoring. By analysing existing literature and studies, this review will shed light on the understanding of the importance of benzene pollution monitoring in ambient air and its implications for public health. Additionally, it will reflect the mitigation strategies applied by regulators & need for future revisions of air quality guidelines.