Fluoranthene

Definition of fluoranthene: Fluoranthene is a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH). It exists as pale yellow needles or plates. Fluoranthene can be produced by the pyrolysis at high temperatures of organic raw materials such as coal and petroleum. It is also known to to be produced by certain plants. Fluoranthene is a constituent of coal tar and petroleum-derived asphalt. Currently, there is no known production or use of this compound. This is the common definition for fluoranthene, other definitions can be discussed in the article

Notes

Fluoranthene
Formula
C16H10

Fluoranthene is generally released into air and water, since it is a universal product of combustion of organic matter and is present in fossil fuel products. In the atmosphere fluoranthene is present both as vapour and adsorbed to particles. As vapour it will be degraded rather rapidly, but it's more stable when adsorbed to particles and as such fluoranthene can travel large distances before being deposited. Fluoranthene has a low water solubility of 265 µg/l, and will rapidly be adsorbed to sediment and particulate matter. It disappears from the water column, by degradation and transport to the sediments. In the sediments however, it can be very stable for decades. Since it has a high tendency to adsorb to organic matter, it has a high potential towards bioaccumulation. it bioaccumulates in shellfish, making them an excellent bioindicator for fluoranthene pollution.

Concentrations above 0,5 mg/l can cause acute toxicity in sandworms.

Concentrations in sediments of highly polluted areas can reach up to 400 µg/kg in the sediments.

Environmental standards and legislation

Included in the water framework list of priority substances

See also

Fluoranthene on the ED North Database