Background concentrations of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) compounds in New York State soils

Using information from a variety of published studies, a data set was assembled with approximately 200 surface soil samples collected from urban locations across New York State (NYS) not directly influenced by known sources of contamination. Statistical characteristics for 17 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) compounds were examined and compared with draft NYS soil cleanup objectives that had been developed using risk-based and rural background considerations. For the carcinogenic PAH compounds, approximately 12-40% of samples exceeded cleanup objectives proposed for residential land use, but few samples exceeded the less stringent standards proposed for commercial and industrial properties. Qualitative comparisons with a recent study of NYS rural soils indicated substantial differences in background PAH levels between urban and rural locations. These findings motivate further research into the best manner for incorporating background information into soil cleanup objectives for urban areas.