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

本计画主要研究氯原子（Cl）引发挥发性有机化合物（VOC）氧化及二次有机气溶胶（SOA）的形成。实验室研究将在烟雾室中进行，在烟雾室中，将通过分子氯的光解引发反应，并将使用气相色谱/质谱法和其他类型的检测器研究产品。将进行实地研究，目的是找到Cl引发的化学反应的独特标志物。将修改计算机模型，以包括详细的氯化学，并将用于解释实验室和现场数据。该研究项目将开发新的工具来研究氯在大气中的化学性质，并提供有关这种潜在重要氧化剂的作用的新信息。对于该项目的教育部分，PI将开发创新的课程，将他的研究成果融入他的教学，并为本科生提供研究机会。PI还将参加夏季环境丰富计划（SEEP），该计划旨在鼓励妇女和代表性不足的少数民族成员参与环境科学和工程。还将努力提高杜克大学工程专业学生的保留率。

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.