Determination of volatile organic compounds and calculation of risk for inhalation in air of populations close to the Tarragona Petrochemical Complex

Identifier:  TFG:10058

Handle: https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11797/TFG10058

Authors:  Alfonso Pellisa, Aarón

Abstract:
Tarragona is well known as the site of the most important petrochemical hub in Southern Europe, a fact that sparks environmental interest regarding the study of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the air. These pollutants can cause health issues ranging from dermatitis and irritation to more severe effects such as cancer; consequently, this study quantifies 61 VOCs at various locations (Constantí, El Morell, the Tarragona Educational Complex, and Campclar) and assesses carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risks for different population groups by simulating both low- and high-exposure scenarios. The results indicate negligible risks for infants and children, but suggest a potential risk for adults—particularly the population of El Morell—with 1,3-butadiene emerging as the most significant compound in the risk calculations.