Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons are among the pollutants of major concern in the terrestrial and aquatic habitats. They are mostly characterised by carcinogenicity and possible disruption of endocrine system. Distribution and potential health risks of sixteen priority PAHs in the water and sediment samples collected between December 2015 and June 2016 from Algoa Bay, South Africa were evaluated. Water and sediment samples collected were extracted with liquid-liquid and soxhlet extraction methods respectively, then cleaned-up using glass column loaded with silica gel. Final concentrations of the target PAHs were determined by gas chromatography interfaced with flame ionization detector. Results indicated that individual PAH concentrations in surface water, bottom water and sediment samples ranged from not detected (ND) to 24.66 µg/L, ND to 22.81 µg/L and ND to 5.23 mg/kg correspondingly. Total PAHs concentrations varied as 12.78 – 78.94 µg/L, 1.20 – 90.51 µg/L and 1.17 – 10.47 mg/kg in the three environmental matrices in that order. The non-carcinogenic risk was generally below 1, whereas risk indices (dermal contact) were above the acceptable limit of 1×10<sup>-4</sup> in the water column, suggesting possible carcinogenic effects to humans, with adults being the most vulnerable. Similarly, highest contributions to both TEQs and MEQs in the sediments were made by benzo(a)pyrene and dibenzo(a,h)anthracene, the two most toxic congeners, signifying the possibility of carcinogenicity and mutagenicity in humans. Diagnostic ratios of PAHs reflect a prevailing pyrogenic input all through. The pollution level was although moderate, yet regular check is recommended to ensure safe and healthy environment for human and aquatic lives.

Distribution pattern and health risk assessment of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in the water and sediment of Algoa Bay, South Africa

2019 Spring National Meeting

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