Handbook of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons : Chemistry, Occurrence & Health Issues

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are high molecular weight, aromatic compounds containing two or more benzene rings joined together in different ways. They belong to a group of persistent organic pollutants (POPs); are resistant to degradation; and can remain in the environment for long periods with the potential to cause adverse environmental and health effects. This book discusses the chemistry, occurrence and health issues related to PAHs. Topics include PAHs in foods and herbal medicines; biomonitoring of PAHs by pine needles; thermodynamics and phase behavior of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons mixtures; occurrence of polycylic aromatic hydrocarbons in cephalopods; children environmentally exposed to PAHs and at risk of genotoxic effects; analysis of PAHs in environmental solid samples; the chemical and electronic properties of PAHs; and the determination of PAHs in drinking water sources.