Black Carbon Oxidation Project

A large portion of airborne particulate matter is organic matter—much of it condensed aromatic structures—and the fate and effects of this organic fraction are poorly understood. In fact, a recent review of air quality criteria by the EPA said that published information on the health effects of the organic fraction of airborne particulate matter was “conspicuous by its relative absence.” We are investigating the effects of atmospheric oxidation on the composition of the soluble fraction of atmospheric particles, and using lung cells in culture to study the potential effects of these compounds.

Students currently working on Black Carbon Project:

Amanda Willoughby
Cecilia Ciceraro
Jacqueline Frank