Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in Chinese surface soil: occurrence and distribution

In this study, 16 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were analyzed in 157 concurrently collected soil samples in 2005 over China. Higher concentration of ∑₁₆PAHs was found in urban soil, followed by rural and background soil. The results indicated that PAHs in Chinese surface soil showed a primary distribution pattern, which was confirmed by the positive correlation with emission inventory. Based on the results of literature over the past 10 years (2004–2013) in China, the spatial distribution of PAHs in urban and rural soil was established. An obvious geographical distribution with PAH concentration was found, as higher in Eastern China and lower in Middle and Western China. Furthermore, PAH pollution in Chinese riverbank soil was summarized and showed higher levels, indicating their potential sources from polluted rivers. According to our knowledge, this is the first time to comprehensively study the PAH pollution status in Chinese surface soil on the national scale based on monitoring results.