Impact of Petroleum Coke (Petcoke) PM10 on the Urban Environment of the Port Terminals of Veracruz, Mexico

The Port of Veracruz, the main port in the Gulf of Mexico, has experienced a significant increase in its import and export operations, such as petroleum coke (Petcoke), a solid waste, mainly used in the steel industry. During the period of 2010–2023, approximately 7,401,594 tons of coke were stored outdoors, generating PM10 particulate emissions due to wind erosion. These particles were dispersed to urban areas, reaching an estimated total emission of 5077 tons. The study used geospatial analysis and environmental modeling tools (ALOHA®) to evaluate the dispersion and concentration of PM10 in the atmosphere, comparing them with the limits established by the Mexican Official Standard NOM-025-SSA1-2021. The results indicate that in years with high port activity, such as 2014, PM10 concentrations exceeded the normative values, representing a potential risk to public health and urban infrastructure. This study provides critical evidence on the environmental impacts of coke handling in ports and suggests mitigation strategies, including processes for the confinement of materials and the implementation of advanced emissions monitoring systems.