An investigation of environmental variables affecting concentrations of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in eastern Alaska

Abstract

Analytical methods for determining polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) concentrations in spruce needles were developed and evaluated. Concentrations of four PAHs (phenanthrene, anthracene, fluoranthene and pyrene) were determined in spruce needles collected near Eastern Alaska roadways. These needle concentrations were used to develop multivariate models that described the influence of climate and geographical variables on concentrations. These variables included latitude, longitude, radial distance from urban site, elevation, temperature, precipitation, ecosystem type, tree species, non-volatile extractable content of needles, and forest fire impact. The models show that three possible sources of PAHs exist in eastern Alaska, urban sites (Fairbanks, Anchorage and Valdez), ocean air, and forest fires. Distribution of PAHs away from these sources is strongly correlated with elevation. The general trend shows that PAH concentrations increase as elevation and proximity to sources decrease.