Emission Characteristics of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons from Asphalt Concrete Manufacturing Facilities in South Korea

Asphalt concrete (ascon) manufacturing facilities in South Korea are located near urban areas and emit various air pollutants, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) such as benzo(a)pyrene (BaP), a Group 1 carcinogen. However, few measurement-based studies exist in Korea, and no domestic BaP emission factor has been established, making its effective management difficult. In this study, PAH concentrations emitted from stacks were measured using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry at 29 facilities located near densely populated areas. BaP was detected at all facilities, and emission factors were calculated based on the ascon materials and dryer fuel types. The calculated emission factors were found to be 31 to 6230 times higher than the AP-42 standards provided by the US Environmental Protection Agency. This discrepancy likely arises from differences between processes and fuel characteristics. Using the California Puff model, BaP concentrations in the near area were predicted, corresponding to as much as 30% of the US National Ambient Air Quality Standards. These findings indicate a potentially significant environmental health risk in nearby communities. The findings of this study can serve as foundational data for formulating policies and providing institutional support aimed at managing emissions from ascon manufacturing facilities in Korea.