ESROP – Imperial College London – Real-Time Source Apportionment of Organic Aerosol

PM2.5 are organic molecules, less than 2.5 nm in diameter, which pose significant risks to public health, and have been shown to cause lung irritation and cancer, corrode the alveolar wall, and premature mortality, among other issues. Using traditional methods, it is difficult to find the source of these molecules and document them promptly, as processing this information requires high-level skills in source-apportionment analysis. Because of this, information is only available to policymakers for months or years in the future.

To address this, it is possible to integrate additional supporting, auxiliary data into real-time monitoring, alongside statistical analysis and receptor-based source apportionment techniques to provide immediate pollutant source information. In addition, the project will create a publicly accessible interface that provides up-to-date information on pollution sources. This will help scientists improve air quality research and give policymakers the tools they need to make faster, more informed decisions to protect public health. Participating institutions will benefit from better data accuracy, improved research opportunities, and a stronger ability to address air pollution challenges.

Faculty Supervisor:

Arthur Chan

Student:

Partner:

Imperial College London

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Education

University:

University of Toronto

Program: