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Distribution of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in Datuo karst Tiankeng of South China

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Abstract

Levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were measured in surface soils of Datuo karst Tiankeng (large sinkholes) in South China with the use of a gas chromatography–mass spectroscopy (GC–MS) system. This paper provides data on the levels and distribution of PAHs from the top to the bottom of the Datuo karst Tiankeng. The results showed that the sum of the 16 EPA priority PAHs from the sampled locations from top to bottom had a relative increment in PAHs concentration. ∑PAHs ranged from 16.93 ng/g to 68.07 ng/g with a mean concentration of 42.15 ng/g. The correlated results showed the bottom of the large sinkhole, which accounts for the higher concentrations, probably acts like a trap for the PAHs. Thus, the low evaporation rate at the bottom may play a key role in controlling the high concentration of PAHs at the bottom.

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Acknowledgement

This work was supported by the Natural Scientific Foundation of China (No. 40473043).

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Correspondence to Oramah I. Theodore or Shihua Qi.

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Theodore, O.I., Qi, S., Kong, X. et al. Distribution of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in Datuo karst Tiankeng of South China. Environ Geochem Health 30, 423–429 (2008). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10653-007-9126-9

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10653-007-9126-9

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