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Analysis of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) in the Medellín- Bogotá tunnel: Assessment of risk exposure

10.24050/reia.v21i42.1755
Published 2024-07-09
Articles

Abstract

Tunnels are civil constructions which allow to overcome the mountainous areas. However,
the traffic which pass through these structures emits PM 2.5, polycyclic aromatic
hydrocarbons (PAHs), among other air pollutants, which may accumulate inside tunnels and
triggers pulmonary, carcinogenic and reproductive effects, increasing the risk for workers
and those who transit periodically. Thereby, ventilation systems in Tunnel, the predominant
type of vehicle, thermal conditions and protection elements, play an important role in risk
reduction. In this paper, we carried out an analysis of total PAHs by photoelectric method
in the exterior and interior of the Medellín-Bogotá tunnel (260 meters long) and their
speciation by GC/MS. The levels of total PAHs were applied in an inhalation intake risk
model (Ia) for workers and periodical passersby. The results indicate levels 2.7 times higher
inside the tunnel compared to outside. Also, 13 PAHs were found associated with particulate
matter adhered to the tunnel walls, including the presence of Benzo[a]pyrene, which
exhibits carcinogen effects. Furthermore, the Ia showed a value of 1.6 μg.(kg.day)-1 which
is 7.7 times higher than the exposure values for population of the Valle de Aburrá during
atmospheric contingencies. The analyzes indicate that the exposure time (tEa) is the variable
with the greatest influence on the risk, and therefore, in long tunnels, the periodic traffic will
represent a greater risk. In spite preliminary results, those allow us to visualize future effects
due to exposure to PAHs and biomagnification of the impact of PAHs due to inadequate
washing for tunnels. Furthermore, the requirement for efficient ventilation systems and
protective elements should be done to reduce risk exposure.

Keywords

Categories

Authors

  • Jhon Fredy Narvaez Valderrama

    Corporación Universitaria Remington

  • Yivilton Pérez Rambauth

    Colombia

  • Francisco Campillo Machado

    Colombia

  • Mauricio Bedoya-Soto

    Colombia

  • Yileni Argoti Ospina

    Colombia

  • Maria Fernanda Sarmiento

    Colombia

  • Francisco José Molina Pérez

    Colombia

  • Carlos Daniel Ramos Contreras

    Colombia

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