Determination of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in wastewater, sediments, sludge and plants in Karak Province, Jordan

Analysis for sixteen types of Polycyclic Aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) from samples of raw and treated wastewater, sediments, sludge and plants growing along treated wastewater way was performed in October 1997. The collection sites represent two wastewater treatment plants (WWTP) receiving different types of wastewater and one site from disposal of raw wastewater in the city of Karak in southern Jordan. Wastewater treatment efficiency showed removal of PAHs through settling tanks and adsorption on sediments after treatment. The removal percentage ranged from 44-100% for individual PAH. PAHs were widely distributed at various levels in raw wastewater, treated wastewater, sludge, sediments and plants. The highest concentration was observed in sludge and the lowest in plants. There was a variation in PAHs concentration between the three investigated sites which was attributed to the efficiency of treatment, period of contact with the wastewater, and the nature of activities. The WWTPs were capable or reducing PAHs contamination in water, up to 40% of the total PAHs by adsorption on sludge and sediments.