Atmospheric Sciences

Atmospheric Aerosols

This research addresses the size, composition and sources of biologically active particles, effective control strategies, and the role of particles in climate and visibility.

One area of study is sampling artifacts that occur when the concentration of organic carbon particles in the atmosphere is measured. This work includes:

• quantifying light absorbing properties of organic and black carbon aerosols,
• controlled laboratory generation of black carbon, and
• evaluation and improvements of methods of measuring organic and black carbon aerosols.

The greater aim of this research is an improved understanding of the health and climate effects of energy related air pollution.