Qualitative and quantitative identification of PAH in the bottom sediments of Moscow urban rivers

Abstract

Qualitative and quantitative identification of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in bottom sediments of Moscow urban rivers with different levels of anthropogenic impact was made, the content of PAH was measured and a comparison between PAH content in Moscow urban rivers and other environmental objects was carried out. The results of our observation showed that bottom sediments of Moscow contain PAHs such as anthracene, fluoranthene, benzo(a)pyrene and others with the composition of PAH being the same for different rivers. Fluoranthene and benzo(b)fluoranthene have the highest concentrations and rivers Tarakanovka and Nischcenka are the most polluted rivers with the latest having PAH containment over 28 mg/kg in sample point no. 4. River Los is the cleanest river and has the same PAH concentrations as background territories have.