THE CONTENT OF POLYCYCLIC AROMATIC HYDROCARBON (PAHs) COMPOUND IN SEAWATER OF MAYALIBIT BAY, WEST OF PAPUA Edward, Helfinalis and Y Witasari
Research Centre for Oceanography, National Research and Inovation Agency (BRIN) Jl. Pasir Putih I, Ancol Timur, Jakarta.
Abstract
Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) are polycyclic aromatic organic compounds that are toxic to humans and aquatic organisms. The purpose of this study was to determine the levels of PAHs in seawater in Mayalibit Bay which was carried out in November 2008. Sampling of seawater and sediment was carried out using a water sampler at 10 stations. The levels and types of PAH compounds were determined using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometer, and the source of PAHs was determined by individual ratio diagnosis. The results showed that the PAH content in Mayalibit Bay seawater was relatively small and was still within the criteria for the life status of marine organisms by Quality standard guidelines by Ministry of Environment. This type of PAH is dominated by high molecular weight PAHs. The results of the diagnostic analysis of individual PAH ratios show that PAHs in seawater come from various sources such as petroleum, and combusted organic matter.
Keywords: Mayalibit Bay, seawater, PAHs
Topic: Aquatic Pollution and Ecotoxicology (International)
