Levels of Volatile Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in the Atmosphere of Athens, Greece

Abstract

Abstract Eight light polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) have been measured in the gas and particle phase of the atmosphere of Athens, in one site during an eight-month period (December, 1997-July, 1998). A glass fiber filter-polyurethane foam sheet high volume air sampler was used to collect the particle and vapor phase of the eight PAHs in nineteen samples, taken from the Athens center. Methodology of sampling as well as levels and abundance of PAHs in both phases are discussed. Seasonal variation of very volatile PAHs was found not to be strictly related to high temperatures and explanations are proposed. An unexpected PAHs pattern from two summer photochemical episodes is also discussed.