CAREER: The Role of the Chlorine Atom in Secondary Organic Aerosol Formation

该项目涉及氯原子(Cl)引发的挥发性有机化合物(VOC)的氧化以及随后形成的二次有机气溶胶(SOA)的研究。实验室研究将在烟雾室内进行，在那里将通过分子氯的光解引发反应，并将使用气相色谱/质谱仪和其他类型的探测器对产品进行研究。将进行实地研究，目的是找到氯引发的化学的独特标记。将对计算机模型进行修改，以包括详细的氯化学，并将用于解释实验室和现场数据。这个研究项目将开发新的工具来研究大气中氯的化学，并提供关于这种潜在重要氧化剂作用的新信息。对于这个项目的教育部分，PI将开发创新的课程，将他的研究成果整合到他的教学中，并为本科生提供研究机会。该协会还将参加夏季环境丰富方案(SEEP)，该方案旨在鼓励妇女和代表不足的少数民族成员参与环境科学和工程。杜克大学还将努力提高工科学生的留存率。

This project involves studies of chlorine atom (Cl) initiated oxidation of volatile organic compounds (VOC) and subsequent formation of secondary organic aerosol (SOA). Laboratory studies will be carried out in a smog chamber where reaction will be initiated by photolysis of molecular chlorine, and products will be studied using Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry and other types of detectors. Field studies will be carried out with the goal of finding unique markers of Cl-initiated chemistry. Computer models will be modified to include detailed chlorine chemistry, and will be used to interpret the laboratory and field data. This research project will develop new tools to study the chemistry of chlorine in the atmosphere and provide new information on the role of this potentially important oxidant.For the education component of this project, the PI will develop innovative coursework, integrate the results of his research into his teaching, and provide research opportunities for undergraduate students. The PI will also participate in a Summer Environmental Enrichment Program (SEEP) designed to encourage the participation of women and members of underrepresented minorities in the environmental sciences and engineering. Efforts will also be directed towards improving retention of engineering students at Duke University.