Large (C> = 24) Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons: Chemistry and Analysis
John C. Fetzer, PhD
August 14, 2000
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are the first type of chemicals that were ever discovered to cause cancer in humans. They are found in cigarette smoke, in barbecued and smoked foods, in automobile and Diesel engine exhaust, fireplace smoke, and many other common things that people are exposed to. Analyzing for PAHs in the environment is important in identifying potential sources of cancer exposure and eliminating these as risks.