Characteristics of Fine Particulate Matter (PM2.5)-Bound n-Alkanes and Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) in a Hong Kong Suburban Area

PM2.5 samples were collected at Tung Chung (TC), Hong Kong, during four nonconsecutive months in 2011/2012 to determine the concentrations, seasonal variations, and potential sources of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) n-alkanes (n-C15-n-C35). Samples analyzed using thermal desorption gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (TD-GC/MS) method. The concentrations particulate PAHs ranged from 1.26–13.93 ng/m3 with a mean value 2.57 ng/m3, dominated by 4-ring species. Phenanthrene (Phe) fluoranthene (Flu) two most abundant species, accounting for 13% 18%, respectively. dominant coal biomass burning. inhalation cancer risk our study exceeded 1 × 10−6 but was below 10−4, implying that TC site is acceptable. average concertation 103.21 (ranging 38.58 191.44 ng/m3), C25 Both showed higher autumn winter whilst these values lowest summer. carbon preference index (CPI) percent contribution wax biogenic major sources. annual contributions plant over 40%.