Quantifying the influence of meteorological variables on particle-bound PAHs in urban environments

Özet

Seasonal trend of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) associated with PM10 particles was assessedin an urban area in Cordoba, Argentina, during 2011e2013. In addition, we quantified the contribution oftemperature, relative humidity, rainfall, atmospheric pressure and wind speed on total and individualPAH concentrations. Mean PAH concentrations were higher during autumn and winter. Temperature wasthe meteorological parameter that affected the most total and individual PAHs. Its influence was strongerin lightweight than in heavy PAHs, since they are more easily partitioned in the vapor phase. We foundalso that temperature has a lagged effect on PAHs concentration with the strongest association observedwith 2-day lag temperature. Wind speed and relative humidity were also significant predictors for bothlight and heavy PAHs. Despite the fact that we observed a decreasing trend in the concentration levels ofPAHs, they are still high enough to pose a risk to human health due to chronic exposure.