Spatial patterns, source apportionment, and risk assessment of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in the surface sediments of eastern China lakes along a latitudinal gradient: Insights guided by full-congener analysis

Understanding the occurrence, sources, and ecological risks of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), which are universal persistent organic pollutants, is critical for improving the sustainability and ecological safety of lake systems. Herein, to determine PCB contamination levels and formulate control strategies in lake sediments, 210 sediment samples were collected from 21 lakes along a latitudinal gradient (18-45°N, ∼3000 km) across eastern China and were analyzed for all 209 PCB congeners. The results showed that the total PCB concentration varied greatly from 0.26 to 163.82 ng/g dry weight and exhibited a latitudinal trend of central > north/south. Spatial variations were affected mainly by the organic carbon fraction and local population density. Most lakes had similar PCB profiles, with lower chlorinated PCBs dominating. Notably, non-Aroclor PCB 11 was the most abundant congener. Moreover, unintentionally produced PCBs (UP-PCBs) accounted for ∼31 % of all PCBs. These findings highlight that the significance of UP-PCBs has been overlooked in past studies and that full-congener analysis is necessary for future monitoring. According to the ecological risk assessment of PCBs, zero to moderate risk existed in lake sediments. Therefore, effective strategies are needed to mitigate the impact of PCBs (especially UP-PCBs) from multiple sources on lakes.