Levels and sources of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in sediments from the Gulf of Suez

摘要

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are widespread contaminants throughout the environment (Blumer, 1976; Law, 1986; Harvey, 1996; Mai et al., 2001). The carcinogenic properties of some PAHs coupled with the stability of hydrocarbons during their atmospheric and aquatic transport have generated interest in studying their levels, sources, distribution, environmental fate and impacts (Neff, 1979; Kirso et al., 1986; Notar et al., 2001). Coastal oil pollution of the Gulf of Suez is a serious problem. The principal sources are anthropogenic and they include, (a) offshore oil production mostly in the southern regions; (b) wastewater effluents from the industrial activities in the northern region which comprise oil refineries, fertilizer plants and petrochemical industries; (c) ballast and/or bilge water from tankers and large vessels awaiting berth or those in transit through the Suez Canal; (d) sewage and domestic waste from Suez City; (e) accidental oil spills and leakage; (f) tanker operations at SUMED pipeline terminals in Ain Sokhna; and (g) atmospheric deposition.