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International Journal of Environment Science and Technology
Center for Environment and Energy Research and Studies (CEERS)
ISSN: 1735-1472 EISSN: 1735-1472
Vol. 11, No. 8, 2014, pp. 2329-2336
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Bioline Code: st14223
Full paper language: English
Document type: Research Article
Document available free of charge
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International Journal of Environment Science and Technology, Vol. 11, No. 8, 2014, pp. 2329-2336
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Influence of traffic characteristics on polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon build-up on urban road surfaces
Gunawardena, J.; Ziyath, A.M.; Egodawatta, P.; Ayoko, G.A. & Goonetilleke, A.
Abstract
Traffic is one of the prominent sources of
polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and road surfaces
are the most critical platform for stormwater pollution.
Build-up of pollutants on road surfaces was the focus
of this research study. The study found that PAHs build-up
on road surfaces primarily originate from traffic activities,
specifically gasoline powered vehicles. Other sources such
as diesel vehicles, industrial oil combustion and incineration
were also found to contribute to the PAH build-up.
Additionally, the study explored the linkages between
concentrations of PAHs and traffic characteristics such as
traffic volume, vehicle mix and traffic flow. While traffic
congestion was found to be positively correlated with
6-ring and 5-ring PAHs in road build-up, it was negatively
correlated with 3-ring and 4 ring PAHs. The absence of
positive correlation between 3-ring and 4-ring PAHs and
traffic parameters is attributed to the propensity of these
relatively volatile PAHs to undergo re-suspension and
evaporation. The outcomes of this study are expected to
contribute to effective transport and land use planning for
the prevention of PAH pollution in the urban environment.
Keywords
Stormwater quality; Traffic emissions; Congestion; Traffic volume; Stormwater pollutant processes
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