Assessment of atmospheric pollution by oxygenated and nitrated derivatives of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in two regions of the Czech Republic

nitrofluoranthene (2-nFA), and 1-nitropyrene (1-nPYR), were found in 89%, 96%, and 33% of the samples, respectively, found in concentration ranges of <0.60-902, <0.60-276, and <0.60-117 pg m- 3 air. Slightly higher levels of oxy-and nitro-PAHs were found in Ceske Budejovice compared to Most, but the difference was not statistically significant (p-value >0.05). A statistically significant difference was observed between February and May, where the concentrations in February were up to 20 and 50 times higher for individual oxy-and nitro-PAHs, respectively, in both regions. The diagnostic ratio 2-nFA/1-nPYR >5 showed that indirect emissions were the primary nitro-PAH source in Most of nitro-PAHs in Most and in both sampling campaigns. In Ceske Bude-jovice, the opposite trend was observed in winter, i.e. 2-nFA/1-nPYR <5, indicating direct emissions as the main source. In summary, direct emissions of OPAHs and NPAHs originate from fossil (transportation-related) and solid fuel (heating-related) combustion. In contrast, indirect emissions are related to atmospheric reactions of PAHs with OH radicals (spring, winter) and NO3 radicals (winter). The total TEQB[a]P was higher in winter than spring, with higher inhalation cancer risk.

Automated summary

Nitrofluoranthene (2-nFA), and 1-nitropyrene (1-nPYR), were detected in 89%, 96%, and 33% of the samples, with concentration ranges of <0.60-902, <0.60-276, and <0.60-117 pg m-3 air, respectively. Slightly higher levels of oxy-and nitro-PAHs were found in Ceske Budejovice compared to Most, but the difference was not statistically significant (p-value >0.05). There was a significant difference in concentrations between February and May, with much higher levels in February for both regions. The diagnostic ratio 2-nFA/1-nPYR >5 indicated indirect emissions as the primary nitro-PAH source in Most, while in Ceske Budejovice, direct emissions were identified as the main source, especially in winter. Direct emissions originate from combustion of fossil fuels (transportation-related) and solid fuels (heating-related), while indirect emissions are related to atmospheric reactions of PAHs with OH radicals (spring, winter) and NO3 radicals (winter). The total TEQB[a]P was higher in winter, indicating higher inhalation cancer risk compared to spring.