Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon (PAHs) compound in sea-water of Cimandiri river estuary, Pelabuhan Ratu

Abstract

Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon (PAHs) is a polycyclic aromatic organic compound that is toxic to humans and aquatic organisms. This research aims to determine the level of pollution of PAHs compounds in seawater at the estuary of Cimandiri River, Pelabuhan Ratu. This research was conducted in April 2017 by survey method. Seawater samples were taken using a water sampler at 15 research stations. The levels and types of PAHs compounds were determined using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometer (GC-MS), and PAHs sources with individual ratios diagnose. The results showed that seawater in the Cimandiri River Estuary still relatively low from contamination of PAH compounds. The type of PAH in seawater at the estuary of the Cimandiri River is dominated by low molecular weight naphthalene compound. PAH contained in seawater at the estuary of the Cimandiri River possibly comes from various sources, likely oil spills, burning petroleum, and combustion of organic compounds. PAH content in seawater of Cimandiri River estuary relatively small and still within the criteria for marine organism life state by The State Ministry Office for Life Environment.