The distribution of fifteen polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) indicated from USEPA as priority pollutants was studied in surface sediments (0 - 20 cm) of coastal wetland area of Can Gio district, Hochiminh City. PAHs were recovered from the sediments by solvent extraction and then analyzed by means of high performance liquid chromatography system. Total concentrations of the ∑PAHs in the range 5 – 38 ng/g dw were detected, and a distinct spatial trend was observed. | Journal of Science and Technology 54 (4B) (2016) 109-115 DISTRIBUTION AND SOURCES OF POLYCYCLIC AROMATIC HYDROCARBONS IN AQUATIC SEDIMENT FROM CAN GIO COASTAL WETLAND, HOCHIMINH CITY Hoang Thi Thanh Thuy, Tu Thi Cam Loan* Hochiminh City University of Natural Resources and Environment, 236B Le Van Sy Street, Ward 1, Tan Binh District, Hochiminh City Email: ttcloan@ Received: 15 August 2016; Accepted for publication: 10 November 2016 ABSTRACT The distribution of fifteen polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) indicated from USEPA as priority pollutants was studied in surface sediments (0 - 20 cm) of coastal wetland area of Can Gio district, Hochiminh City. PAHs were recovered from the sediments by solvent extraction and then analyzed by means of high performance liquid chromatography system. Total concentrations of the ∑PAHs in the range 5 – 38 ng/g dw were detected, and a distinct spatial trend was observed. The contents of Nap, Ace, Flu, Phe and dBA were below detection limit. Diagnostic ratios such as benzo[a]anthracene/chrysene and fluoranthene/pyrene were achieved to evaluate the emission sources of PAHs. These ratios indicated an anthopogenic source (pyrolysis) of PAHs for sediments. Furthermore PAHs were associated mainly with fine particle sediments. Although the PAHs contents were below Vietnamese standard but potential risk to ecosystem needs further study since the high percentages of carcinogenic PAHs. Keywords: polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, sediment, coastal wetland, pollution. 1. INTRODUCTION Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are aromatic hydrocarbons with two or more fused benzene rings with natural as well as anthropogenic sources. Due to their ubiquitous occurrence, recalcitrance, bioaccumulation potential and carcinogenic activity, the PAHs have gathered significant environmental concern. Unlike other pollutants already banned or regulated, PAHs continue to be released into the environment due to widespread formation after .
