Particle-bound polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in a rural background atmosphere of southwestern Europe

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are a group of organic pollutants widely distributed in the atmosphere and well known for their carcinogenic mutagenic properties. Over last two decades, research about atmospheric PAHs has been focused urban industrial areas, while less attention given to rural areas. This study aims contribute filling this gap by analyzing levels, sources associated health risks particulate coastal southwestern Europe (Portugal). A total 132 PM10 aerosol samples were collected over 3-year period, from 2014 2016, with high-volume sampler analyzed 7 high-performance liquid chromatography. The global average sum concentrations (?PAHs) was 0.320 ± 0.597 ng/m3. Benzo[b]fluoranthene dominant congener majority samples, an contribution 25% ?PAHs. seasonal trend repeatedly observed period higher during autumn winter months. HYSPLIT model used examine air mass transport pathways into sampling site, revealing that changes frequency continental trajectories key factor explaining variation PAHs. Model runs also indicated fast-moving masses more efficient at dispersing emitted surrounding region than slow-moving similar origin (marine or continental). concentration benzo[a]pyrene, powerful human carcinogen, found be 0.044 0.098 ng/m3, approximately orders magnitude lower values previously recorded most polluted European atmospheres. Diagnostic ratio analysis suggested mobile stationary combustion equally contributing load estimated lifetime lung cancer risk below health-based guideline level, indicating low development inhalation exposure particle-phase