Atmospheric distribution of organic compounds from urban areas near a coal-fired power station

Atmospheric particulate matter and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from three sites surrounding a thermoelectric complex, VOCs from the power plant stack gas and aliphatic and aromatic fractions obtained from a coal sample utilized by the thermoelectric complex were monitored in Tubarão and Capivari de Baixo cities, State of Santa Catarina, Brazil, in December 1997. Literature data were reviewed in order to outline differences and similarities among sources and levels of pollutants from coal combustion. Concentrations of benzo[a]pyrene, which is a well-known carcinogenic chemical, were relatively high compared to large urban agglomerations worldwide and similar compared to Asian cities as Beijing in China, a substantial producer and consumer of coal. Concentrations of benzene were lower than other Brazilian urban areas. Quantitation of the compounds identified showed that they were present within the recommended limits of exposure for substances present in air.