Elsevier, Atmospheric Environment, (115), p. 124-131
DOI: 10.1016/j.atmosenv.2015.04.050
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The long range atmospheric transport of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) from heavily polluted regions to remote areas has been well-known. However, there are limited studies focusing on the Tibetan Plateau (TP). To assess the temporal transport patterns of PAHs and particulate matters (PMs), a ground-based observation program (2008−2011) was conducted in the southeast TP. Relatively high atmospheric concentrations of particulate-PAHs (0.2-5.0 ng m-3, sum of 15 compounds) and Total suspended Particles (TSP, 4.1 - 46.7 μg m-3) were observed. Concentrations of particulate-PAHs/TSP exhibited seasonality with higher levels in the winter-spring season and lower levels in summer. Using the potential source contribution function model, the source region of both particulate-PAHs and particles was attributed to the Indo-Gangetic Plain (IGP), suggesting the co-transport of particulate-PAHs and aerosols. The aerosol incursion, penetrating the Himalayas and reaching the TP was further captured by Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer and Cloud-Aerosol Lidar Infrared Pathfinder Satellite Observations.