The pollution characteristics, source identification and health risks of multiple classes atmospheric SVOCs with complex emission sources of the petrochemical plant and other industries

SVOCs are ubiquitous air contaminants, whilst little was known about their environmental fates and sources in atmosphere in ambient areas around petrochemical and other industries. Herein, the levels of typical SVOCs, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), organophosphate flame retardants (OPFRs), polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), phthalate acid esters (PAEs), and alternative plasticizers (APs), were investigated in atmosphere of residential areas around a petrochemical industry plant. The plant is bordering a developing metropolis, with highly developed modern industries and transportations. PAEs (128.7 +/- 72.2 ng/m3) were found with the highest levels in atmosphere, followed by APs (19.1 +/- 14.6 ng/m3), PAHs (13.6 +/- 5.01 ng/m3), OPRs (3.89 +/- 1.85 ng/m3), and PBDEs (0.08 +/- 0.06 ng/m3). Seasonal variation was observed for SVOCs in the particulate and gaseous phases (p < 0.05), with higher concentrations of PAEs, APs, and OPFRs in summer than winter, whereas the opposite for PAHs. Chemical properties of compounds will influence the G-P partitioning of SVOC in the

Automated summary

SVOCs are widely present in the air and their fates and sources in ambient areas around petrochemical and other industries were not well understood. This study investigated the levels of different SVOCs in the atmosphere of residential areas near a petrochemical industry plant in a developing metropolis. The highest levels were found for PAEs, followed by APs, PAHs, OPFRs, and PBDEs. Seasonal variation was observed, with higher concentrations of certain SVOCs in summer and others in winter.