Benzene
Petrol contains benzene which is carcinogenic.
Source: zonch / Fotolia.com
Benzene is an organic, chemical compound with an aromatic odour. It is carcinogenic and a content of petrol.
Emission sources
Formerly refueling was an important benzene emission source. This problem was solved by gas displacement techniques. Nevertheless, road traffic is the main emission source for benzene which is content of the car exhausts.
Health risks
When taking up benzene chronically benzene damages the inner organs and the bone marrow. Also little amounts are critical because benzene and its products of catabolism can cause cancer.
Air quality standards
There is an Europe-wide limit value of 5 µg/m³ as annual mean that is valid since 1 January 2010.
Benzene - Annual tabulation
Here the annual tabulations from 2000 onwards can be found (station-by-station).
