Phenanthrene in ambient air due to addition of biodiesel in diesel used in heavy-duty engines

Abstract

The use of biofuels in Brazil is encouraged so it is important to monitor changes in emissions from combustion processes, in air quality and impacts on the environment. Concentrations of phenanthrene in vapor and particulate phases were measured inside a bus station following the changes in the biodiesel/diesel mixtures (B0 to B8) along seven sampling campaigns. Impactors were used for collection of fine particulate material (PM2.5) and for vapor phase, cartridges with resin XAD-4. Phenanthrene was determined by HPLC and fluorimetric detection. Comparing B0 and B8 campaigns, it was observed that phenanthrene concentrations decreased by 93 % in MP2.5 and 42 % in the vapor phase. Despite that decrease, the emissions resulting from the use of diesel/biodiesel blends with the growing addition of biodiesel should continue to be investigated, due to the health risks associated with HPA exposure.