Use of concentration ratios of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) and lead to determine source-origins of PAH in sediments and cockles

Abstract

The source-origins of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) found in river and estuarine sediments of a lightly industrialized country have been determined. Single-variable analysis of the PAH to lead (Pb) concentration ratios (specifically log10 {[PAH]/[Pb]}) showed that the PAH present in the two types of matrices were derived primarily from chimney emissions of wood and coal combustion in the fireplaces of private dwelling houses (domestic pollution). These findings corroborated previous results obtained by other source-origin indicators. Conflicting results were obtained when a species of cockle, Chione stutchburyi, collected from the estuary, was considered, however. It is probable that the bioavailability of PAH and Pb to Chione combined with the metabolism of PAH in the organism are responsible for this anomalous observation.