The characteristics of phthalate acid esters and bisphenol A in PM2.5 of a petrochemical city: Concentrations, compositions, and health risk assessment in Dongying

Abstract

Phthalate acid esters (PAEs) and bisphenol A (BPA) are recognized as common endocrine disruptors associated with various adverse effects on human health. However, limitations in existing systematic studies, particularly in air detection, have raised concerns about potential health risks from inhalation exposure. In this study, PM_2.5 samples were collected in Dongying, a petrochemical city, from October 27 to December 6, 2021. The concentrations and compositions of PAEs and BPA in PM_2.5 were analyzed, and health risks associated with inhalation exposure were assessed. The hazard index (HI) and cancer risk (CR) were calculated according to EPA standard methods for both adults and children. The mean concentrations of PAEs and BPA were determined to be 1152 and 3.7 ng/m³, respectively. BPA concentrations were found to increase during heating, whereas PAE concentrations were observed to decrease slightly. Diisobutyl phthalate (DiBP), a major PAE, was reduced by approximately 20% during heating. However, 1,4-dimethylphthalazine (DMP) and bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) were observed to increase from 4.2 to 14% and from 5.9 to 11%, respectively. It is hypothesized that variations in the concentrations and compositions of airborne PAEs and BPA were influenced by district heating. An increase in the percentage of DEHP in PM_2.5 was noted on polluted days, likely influenced by saturated vapor pressure. The estimated daily intake (EDI) for children was calculated to be higher than that for adults, indicating that children were exposed to significantly greater potential risks, although overall risks were observed to be low. The results of this study provide essential baseline data, such as concentration, for the management and control of emerging pollutants like endocrine disruptors in the urban atmosphere.