Detailed Chemical Characterization of Atmospheric Organics by Gas Chromatography with Soft Ionization Mass Spectrometry

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Human activities emit a large amount of organic compounds into the atmosphere, many of which undergo reactions to form particulate matter. Particulate matter has important effects on air quality, global climate and human health. However, the sources, properties and reactions of organic compounds leading to particulate matter formation are poorly understood. In this research program, we investigate the chemical composition of urban emission sources and study their atmospheric reactions.****Using advanced instrumentation, we develop methods to measure detailed molecular structures of organic compounds and apply these techniques to important urban emission sources, such as motor vehicle engines and wood burning exhaust. Knowledge of their chemical composition allows us to understand their climate and health impacts. We also study atmospheric reactions in the laboratory by carrying out simulation experiments and measure the changes in composition. These experimental results will lead us to develop a new framework, linking chemical composition to model predictions of particulate formation. This framework will be adopted in air quality models and allow policymakers to understand and mitigate particulate pollution.******