Organophosphate esters in airborne particles from subway stations

For the first time, the concentrations of 19 organophosphate esters (OPEs) were measured in airborne fine particulate matter (PM2.5) from subway stations in Barcelona (Spain) to investigate their occurrence, contamination profiles and associated health risks. OPEs were detected in all PM2.5 samples with levels ranging between 159 and 202 ng/m(3) (mean value of 39.9 ng/m(3)). Seventeen out of 19 tested analytes were detected, with TDCIPP, TCIPP and TCEP being those presenting the highest concentrations. OPE concentrations are not driven by the same factors that determine the ambient PM2.5 concentrations of other constituents in the subway. Newer stations presented higher OPE levels, probably due to the materials used in the design of the platforms, with greater use of modern plastic materials versus older stations with tiles and stones. Estimated daily intakes via airborne particles inhalation during the time expended in subway stations were calculated, as well as the carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic health risks (CR and non-CR), all being much lower than the threshold risk values. Thus, subway inhalation exposure when standing on the platform to OPE's per se is not considered to be dangerous for commuters. (C) 2021 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier B.V.

Automated summary

In this study, concentrations of 19 organophosphate esters (OPEs) were measured in airborne fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in subway stations in Barcelona, Spain. The results show that newer subway stations have higher levels of OPEs compared to older stations. The health risks associated with OPE inhalation were found to be much lower than the threshold risk values, indicating that subway inhalation exposure is not considered dangerous for commuters.