Recent studies have shown that semi-polar polycyclic aromatic compounds (PACs), such as oxy-PAHs, azaarens, nitro-PAHs and hydroxy-PAHs, are accompanying PAHs at many contaminated sites, and may constitute an additional risk. The semi-polar PACs have slightly different properties than the PAHs, which influences their environmental behavior and thereby the risk they pose to humans and environment. For example, semi-polar PACs may have higher mobility in soil than PAHs, as a result of their higher water solubility. Furthermore, many semi-polar PACs are shown to be toxic, mutagenic and carcinogenic, and sometimes the effects caused by the semi-polar fractions of soil extracts are stronger than those cause by the fractions containing the PAHs. Despite these facts, semi-polar PACs are seldom included in risk assessment programs.  



Within the polar PAC network we want to elucidate whether polar and semi-polar polycyclic aromatic compounds (PACs) need to be considered during risk assessment of contaminated soils. We are doing this by collecting and evaluating the present knowledge in the field, and by building a network of experts, decision-making authorities and companies that will facilitate information exchange and stimulate discussions on the subject.

If you are interested, you are welcome to join the network and share your knowledge on polar PACs with us. Please contact the project leader.

Project leader: Staffan Lundstedt, Umeå University
E-mail: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
Phone: +46-90-7866654.

Project time frame: Jan 2009- June 2011. 
Budget:  48 000 €

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Related Companies/Universities

• Umeå University