Desorption of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons from field-contaminated soil to a two-dimensional hydrophobic surface before and after bioremediation

► We evaluated PAH desorption from field-contaminated soil to a hydrophobic surface. ► PAHs desorbed at soil loadings in excess of monolayer coverage. ► Transport of PAHs through the vapor phase is an important mechanism. ► Bioremediation eliminates PAHs capable of desorbing to the hydrophobic surface.