Abiotic transformations of polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons and polynuclear aromatic nitrogen heterocycles in aquatic environments

The chemical and photochemical oxidation of polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and polynuclear aromatic nitrogen heterocycles (PANHs) in water has been critically reviewed. Research needs are identified in order to assess and predict the photodegradation of these compounds in natural water. In particular, more information is needed on the effects of dissolved and particulate inorganic and organic material on the chemical and photochemical oxidation of these compounds in order to understand their behaviour in aquatic ecosystems.