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(Reference retrieved automatically from Web of Science through information on FAPESP grant and its corresponding number as mentioned in the publication by the authors.)

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and petroleum biomarkers in Sao Sebastiao Channel, Brazil: Assessment of petroleum contamination

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Author(s):
da Silva, Denis A. M. [1] ; Bicego, Marcia C. [1]
Total Authors: 2
Affiliation:
[1] Univ Sao Paulo, Lab Quim Organ Marinha, Inst Oceanog, BR-05508900 Sao Paulo - Brazil
Total Affiliations: 1
Document type: Journal article
Source: MARINE ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH; v. 69, n. 5, p. 277-286, JUN 2010.
Web of Science Citations: 40
Abstract

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and non-aromatic hydrocarbons (NAHs), including n-alkanes, isoprenoids and petroleum biomarkers (terpanes, hopanes, steranes and diasteranes), were quantified by gas chromatography with flame ionization and mass spectrometer detectors in sediment samples collected from the Sao Sebastiao Channel (SSC), Brazil, where the largest Brazilian maritime petroleum terminal is located The concentrations of total PAHs. total n-alkanes and petroleum biomarkers ranged from below the detection limits to 370 ng g(-1,) 28 mu g g(-1), 2200 ng g(-1) (dry weight), respectively. The analysis of PAN distribution suggested combustion sources of PAHs as the main input for these compounds with smaller amount from petroleum contamination The distribution of petroleum biomarkers undoubtedly demonstrated petroleum as a source of anthropogenic contamination throughout the region. The assessment of petrogenic sources of contamination in marine sediment is more challenging if only PAH analysis were carried out, which demonstrates that more stable hydrocarbons such as petroleum biomarkers are useful for investigating potential presence of petroleum (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved. (AU)