Congener specific analysis, spatial distribution and screening-level risk assessment of polychlorinated naphthalenes in water and sediments from two tributaries of the River Chenab, Pakistan

•First study to report PCN in environmental compartment from Pakistan•Urban/industrial sites were classified as potential sources of PCN in the study area.•TEQ values were considerably higher than previously published data.

The number of reports regarding PCN screening-levels and ecological risk assessment in environmental compartments is limited. This study presents information on congener specific analysis, distribution pattern of PCN and ecological risk assessment via PCN exposure/contamination through water and sediment from two tributaries of the River Chenab, Pakistan. A total twenty eight samples of water and sediment were collected during Jan, 2013 to June, 2013 to analyze the ∑39PCN congeners. ∑39PCN concentrations ranged between 8.94 and 414 ng g− 1 dw and 178-489 ng l− 1 in sediment and water, respectively. Water exhibited higher TEQ values while in case of sediments TEQ values were at higher than the previously reported data from other parts of the world. This is the first report of PCNs' distribution pattern and screening-level risk assessment from Pakistan. The results of toxicity exposure of PCN warrant auxiliary devotion in future, to this group of contaminant.

Graphical abstractDownload high-res image (143KB)Download full-size image