Occurrence, Fate and Treatment Methods of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons, Polychlorinated Biphenyls, Dioxins and Furans: A Mini Review

Abstract

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), dioxins and furans are persistent organic pollutants with well-known toxicity and carcinogenic activity. These organic pollutants have the tendency to bioaccumulate, present little or no biodegradation and subsequently, could cause a menace to the ecosystems and human health. This review discusses the occurrence, fate and toxic effect of PAHs, PCBs, dioxins and furans. It also examines the most important advances in the treatment of water and wastewater pollution by PAHs, PCBs, dioxins and furans.