Environ Sci Pollut Res Int. 2025 Oct 15. doi: 10.1007/s11356-025-37035-6. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
This study provides a comprehensive assessment of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and heavy metal concentrations in the surface sediments of the Pars Special Economic Energy Zone (PSEEZ), aiming to identify potential contamination sources and evaluate their ecological impacts. Sediment samples were collected from 14 stations during winter 2023 and analyzed for 16 priority PAHs and a suite of heavy metals. PAH concentrations ranged from below detection limits to 25.21 ng/g, with localized hotspots near industrial discharge zones. Heavy metals, including cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), and arsenic (As), were detected at varying levels, with some exceeding sediment quality thresholds such as the Effects Range Low (ERL). Statistical source identification revealed petrogenic inputs from oil spills. The predominance of coarse-grained sediments in the PSEEZ, with minimal fine silt and clay content, suggests a lower overall retention capacity for PAHs and heavy metals. While fine particles were present only in limited areas, their potential for adsorbing contaminants remains a concern. Although most PAH and heavy metal concentration indicate below harmful thresholds, the detection of carcinogenic PAHs and elevated metal levels at specific stations indicates localized ecological risks, particularly for benthic organisms and potential trophic transfer within the marine food web.
PMID:41091349 | DOI:10.1007/s11356-025-37035-6
