Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in the atmospheric environment of Brisbane, Australia

Atmospheric concentrations of PAHs were determined in air samples collected at various sites in Brisbane, Australia. Results for a given air sample are presented as the sum of the vapour and particle associated fraction of the compounds. PAH concentrations were highest at sites located in the vicinity of major roads. At a site located adjacent to a major road with a high frequency of heavy vehicle traffic, levels of B(a)P exceeded 1 ng m−3 air. Overall, traffic was found to be the dominant source for PAHs in Brisbane air. The results further indicated the existence of seasonal variations with highest levels in winter. The use of PAH profiles and ratios for identifying sources and processes is discussed.