Physical Sciences and Mathematics Commons^™

Analysis Of Atmospheric Pahs In The Austrian Pine, Timothy Tomashuk, Triet Minh Truong, Audrey E. Mcgowin Ph.D.

Chemistry Student Publications

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) are a common pollutant created by natural (forest fires) or anthropogenic sources, such as incomplete combustion in engines (vehicular traffic) or incinerators. Many PAHs are known or suspected carcinogens and also have mutagenic properties and endocrine disrupting effects.

Although most atmospheric PAHs are measured using high-volume sample collection on filters, a convenient way of monitoring these pollutants is through plant matrices, such as pine needles that act as passive samplers. The needles are covered with a lipid-rich cuticle that absorbs the pollutants. Evergreens are especially useful because they continue to accumulate pollutants during the winter.

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