Regarding the diagnostic ratios used for identifying sources of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) and Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), such as those from traffic, coal combustion, or industrial activities, how should we approach the need for updates? Given that industrial processes, urban development, and technology evolve over time, do these ratios remain reliable for source apportionment? Should we periodically revise these diagnostic ratios to account for changes in emission profiles, new pollution sources, or advancements in analytical techniques? What methodologies would you recommend for validating or updating these ratios, considering both historical data and current environmental conditions?
Regards.
These volatile organic compounds cause pollution through improper disposal, leakage of industrial effluents and infiltration into underground water. Of course, in some cases, VOCs may enter drinking water through chlorination process. These substances are formed in the reaction of chlorine with plastic pipes and are observed in the form of Tetrachloroethylene. And PAHs are considered as indicators of oil pollution. Due to the presence of oil wells in the sea these matters are considered as pollutants of soil and water ecosystem and are very toxic and deadly for aquatic life. So PAHs diagnostic ratios should be used with caution, as their values may change during the environmental fate of these compounds.
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