The source characterization of C8 aromatic hydrocarbons in urban air

The source characterization of C8 aromatic hydrocarbons, ethylbenzene, o-, m-, and p-xylene, is discussed from the observed field measurement results in urban areas. There are two types of C8 aromatic hydrocarbon mixtures; m-xylene rich type and ethylbenzene rich type. The m-xylene rich type was mainly observed during roadside and tunnel studies, while ethylbenzene rich type was typically observed in industrial areas including solvent using industries. Various mixing ratios were noted during measurements at high-raise buildings in Tokyo. The C8 aromatic hydrocarbons observed at high-raise buildings were calculated as a certain ratio of both types of the mixtures with high correlation coefficients. The results of the calculations showed an existence of a ratio between source contribution from gasoline powered vehicles and solvent using industries.