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CEE Oral Dissertation Defense
Fri, Nov 16, 2012 @ 02:30 PM - 05:00 PM
Sonny Astani Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering
Conferences, Lectures, & Seminars
Speaker: Winnie Kam, ENE Ph.D. Candidate
Talk Title: PARTICULATE MATTER (PM) EXPOSURE FOR COMMUTERS IN LOS ANGELES: CHEMICAL CHARACTERIZATION AND IMPLICATIONS TO PUBLIC HEALTH
Abstract: Particulate matter (PM) is a major airborne pollutant in urban areas and contributes to adverse health outcomes as well as environmental effects such as visibility. Sources of PM include both anthropogenic (vehicular emissions, industrial activity) and natural causes (crustal materials, sea salt). The composition of PM is highly complex and varies depending on local sources, source strength, and atmospheric processes such regional transport and gas-to-particle partitioning. This thesis focuses on the exposure assessment size-fractionated PM for five different commute microenvironments in Los Angeles: light-rail (METRO gold line), subway (METRO red line), a freeway with high drayage truck fraction (I-710), a freeway with the low drayage truck fraction (I-110), and major surface streets (Wilshire and Sunset Boulevards). Two major sampling campaigns were conducted to collect time-integrated PM for the purpose of a comprehensive chemical analysis including major PM components (organic carbon and elemental carbon), inorganic ions, metals and trace elements, and organic species. Depending on the mode of commute, commuters may be exposed to PM of various species and concentration levels. Thus, understanding the chemical composition of PM for various commute microenvironments is essential in assessing passenger exposure and potential health endpoints associated with PM inhalation.
Location: Kaprielian Hall (KAP) - 209
Audiences: Everyone Is Invited
Contact: Evangeline Reyes
