ESTIMATION AND SOURCES OF POLYCYCLIC AROMATIC HYDROCARBONS (PAHs) IN DUST AT FUEL FILLING STATIONS IN THE TAMALE METROPOLIS, GHANA

The aim of the study was to identify and quantify concentrations potential sources Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) present in dust particles at fuel filling stations Tamale Metropolis. Sixteen USEPA recognised PAHs were identified after samples analysed their using PAH isomeric ratios. Sample extraction conducted an Accelerated Solvent Extractor (ASE) levels further GC-MS system. total High-Vehicular Traffic Areas ranged from 38.70 µg/kg 1,423,280 with average concentration 158,080 ± 102,650 µg/kg, while that Low-Vehicular 305 3,176,400 370,220 218,140 µg/kg. Amongst 16 identified, Benzo(a)Anthracene had highest for both Areas. Benzo(a)Pyrene 39,310 this 200 times higher than recorded US urban background soils. ratios indicated a strong influence petroleum combustion on stations. It is therefore necessary appropriate measures are taken regards pollution control risk management Keywords: Benzo(a)Anthracene, Benzo(a)Pyrene, Pyrene, Source Identification, Fuel Filling Stations