PAHS IN ATMOSPHERIC PARTICULATE IN THE AREA OF ITALIAN SCIENTIFIC BASE IN ANTARCTICA

Data on PAH levels in atmospheric particulate were determined in the f rame of the environment protection activities during the VI Italian Ex pedition in Antarctica. Samples were collected at the four cardinal po ints at about 200 metres from the central point of the Italian scienti fic base. Results are related to basic meteorological parameters, oper ating parameters and fuel consumption of the waste incinerator, power generators and other engines. Data show low levels of the individual P AH (95% in the range 1-50 pg/m3) confirming the absence, up to now, of relevant contamination from Italian base. On the basis of these preli minary results, monitor program will continue in the future expedition s in order to keep under control the potential PAHs sources.