Organic acid photochemistry at the surface of desert dust

Mineral dust can get lifted and transported from remote arid regions into urban areas by winds. These urban areas contain higher concentrations of organic pollutants, including carboxylic acids, due to human activities. The goal of this project is to understand the interactions of two atmospherically abundant carboxylic acids, formic and propionic acid, with mineral dust. By using state-of-the-art instrumentation, I will measure both the loss of carboxylic acids onto real desert dust surfaces and the resultant production of gaseous species; in addition, I will investigate the change in chemical composition of dust particles. The change in chemical composition is important in determining the health effects of particles. As well, the gaseous species being produced can influence other atmospheric processes by mediating reactions and absorbing light. This will ultimately allow my research to significantly improve our understanding of health, climate, and air quality in urban areas.

Faculty Supervisor:

Sarah Styler

Student:

Partner:

IMT Nord Europe

Discipline:

Physics

Sector:

University:

University of Alberta

Program:

Globalink Research Award