POLYCYCLIC AROMATIC-HYDROCARBONS IN THE ATMOSPHERIC-ENVIRONMENT OF BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA

Atmospheric concentrations of PAHs were determined in air samples coll ected 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 l ocated 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 do minant source for PAHs in Brisbane air. The results further indicated the existence of seasonal variations with highest levels in winter. Th e use of PAH profiles and ratios for identifying sources and processes is discussed. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.