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Locating and quantifying PCB sources in Chicago: receptor modeling and field sampling.
Ying-Kuang Hsu1, Thomas M Holsen, Philip K Hopke
1Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Clarkson University, Potsdam, New York 13699, USA.
Environmental Science & Technology
|March 15, 2003
Summary
Polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) sources in Chicago were identified using potential source contribution function (PSCF) modeling. Sludge drying beds, a landfill, and a transformer yard were pinpointed as significant atmospheric PCB contributors.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Chemistry
- Atmospheric Science
- Pollution Source Apportionment
Background:
- Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are persistent organic pollutants with significant environmental and health concerns.
- Understanding PCB sources is crucial for effective pollution control and risk assessment in urban areas.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and characterize sources of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in the Chicago atmosphere.
- To quantify the contribution of identified sources to ambient PCB concentrations.
Main Methods:
- Utilized potential source contribution function (PSCF) modeling to analyze PCB concentrations.
- Conducted targeted upwind/downwind sampling near potential sources like landfills and sludge drying beds.
- Characterized identified sources by inventories, emission rates, contributions, and PCB congener profiles.
Main Results:
- Three primary PCB source sectors were identified: northwest of Chicago, southwest of Chicago, and the Lake Calumet area.
- Sludge drying beds, a landfill, and a transformer storage yard were confirmed as significant atmospheric PCB sources.
- The transformer storage yard exhibited the highest upwind/downwind concentration differences, with downwind concentrations over five times higher than upwind.
Conclusions:
- Sludge drying beds and landfills are confirmed atmospheric PCB sources in Chicago.
- A transformer storage yard represents a significant local source of atmospheric PCBs.
- Preliminary estimates suggest sludge may emit up to 90 kg/yr of PCBs, though its overall atmospheric contribution may not be significant based on modeling.