Spatial distribution and source apportionment of PAHs in surficial sediments of the Yangtze Estuary, China

► The study area is the whole Yangtze Estuary including the North Branch. ► River runoff and ocean current greatly affect the distribution pattern of PAHs. ► “Marginal filter” phenomenon affects PAHs distribution in the adjacent sea. ► Source assignment of PAHs were qualitative and quantitative studied.