Preliminary characterization of volatile organic compounds in the biogas at Giugliano landfills (Naples, Italy). Volatile organic compounds in the biogas of landfills closed to Naples (Italy).

The characterization of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by landfills is an important topic because, although they represent a percentage below 1% of total emissions, can represent a risk for public health and environment. Some of them, such as benzene, toluene, ethyl-benzene and xylene isomers (BTEX) are in fact toxics or carcinogenic. Monitoring these compounds especially in landfills is thus essential although their concentrations, high at the source, are then diluted in the air. In 2015, a VOCs characterization from the biogas emitted from five landfills (Ampliamento Masseria, Masseria, Resit X, Novambiente and Resit Z) in"Terra dei Fuochi" area (Naples) was done to evaluate and describe its composition. Around 100 compounds belonging to 7 different chemical classes were identify from the biogas by using sorbent tubes and Thermal Desorption Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry. Average concentrations of BTEX were approximately 29 mg/m3 in Ampliamento Masseria, 5-6 mg/m3 in Masseria and in Resit X, 3 mg/m3 in Novambiente and 0.5 mg/m3 in Resit Z. High concentrations of the terpene limonene, ?-pinene and p-cymene have been also detected. These preliminary results highlighted the potential risk for people living in the surrounding area and the need to apply strategies and policies for people security and air quality. The use of biogas for producing electric energy may decrease the concentrations of toxics VOCs reducing their burden in the atmosphere.