Residues and sources recognition of polychlorinated biphenyls in surface sediments of Jiaojiang Estuary, East China Sea

► The levels of PCBs suggest Jiaojiang Estuary as a PCB pollution “hot spot” in China. ► The congener profiles and PCA highlight the role of local industrial plants. ► Physical redistribution and bio-degradation have effects on the congener patterns. ► The concentrations of ∑7PCB near the point sources exceed the ERL and EAC.