[Progress about the research of atmospheric persistent organic pollutants in remote areas]

Recently, atmospheric distribution, transport, and reaction of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in remote areas are getting more attention. Based on the passive air sampler, the networks are established for studying the temporal and spatial distribution of atmospheric POPs in remote areas. The results suggest that the atmospheric concentrations of POPs display a peak value in the 1980s. As the use of POPs has been forbidden after 1980s, concentrations of POPs in air are generally reduced. Concentration of POPs in atmosphere is influenced by temperature and seasonal usage. High concentration of organochlorine pesticides is observed in summer and the comparatively low level is detected in winter. For PAHs, the trend is contrary. High volatility and long-range transport of POPs lead to the global distribution of POPs and accumulation of POPs in remote areas. High mountain is the "acceptor" of atmospheric POPs and cold condensation plays the main role in capturing POPs in high elevation areas. Distribution, transport, exchange direction and exchange flux of POPs among air/water, air/soil, air/snow and air/vegetation interfaces are mainly controlled by temperature, precipitation and characteristics of POPs. Models were developed on the basis of the effect of these factors. Taken together the transport model and source analysis of POPs, transport mechanism of POPs seems to be clearer. This paper reviewed the progress about the above-mentioned scientific topics and discussed the deficiencies of current researches. Furthermore, it pointed out the further work needed for the study of atmospheric POPs in remote areas.