Spatial and temporal distribution of surface water contaminants in the Houston Ship Channel after the Intercontinental Terminal Company Fire.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The fire at the Intercontinental Terminals Company (ITC, Deer Park, La Porte, TX, USA) from March 17 to 20, 2019 resulted in substantial releases of chemical contaminants to the environment, including the surface waters of the Houston Ship Channel.

Objective

To characterize spatial and temporal trends, as well as potential human health risks, from these releases.

Methods

Out of 433 substances with available data, seven were selected for analysis: benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, xylenes, oil and grease, suspended solids, and total petroleum hydrocarbons. Spatial and temporal concentration trends were characterized, and hazard quotients and cancer risks were calculated to estimate the potential for human health impacts from these contaminants.

Results

SUBMITTER: Jang S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8448924 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature