Distribution and sources of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in surface sediments from two Brazilian estuarine systems

Abstract

This study focuses on the tropical estuarine systems of Mundaú-Manguaba (MMELS) and Paraíba do Sul River (PSR), Brazil, affected by sugarcane monoculture practices and also urbanization. The levels of 17 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), 16 of which are classified as priority pollutants by the US-EPA and perylene (a biogenic PAH) were measured in surface sediments to identify pollution sources and determine baseline data looking for future management strategies. The Σ16PAH ranged from 2.90 to 231.30 μg kg-1 in MMELS and from 87.10 to 9344.29 μg kg -1 in the PSR. PAH isomeric ratios suggested mainly pyrogenic input. © 2010 Sociedade Brasileira de Química.