This project will develop analytical methods to speciate by functional groups the water-soluble organic compounds (WSOC) in atmospheric aerosols using solid phase extraction techniques. The goal is to apply this method to the Particle-Into-Liquid Sampler (PILS), expanding its capabilities for online measurements of broad classes of the organic aerosol. The methods will be evaluated through measurements in urban Atlanta, GA, and surrounding rural regions.
Organic carbon compounds often comprise a significant fraction of fine atmospheric particles, and a major sub-fraction of these are soluble in water. In many cases water-soluble particulate organic carbon is formed from secondary organic aerosol formation, a complex process that can be a significant source of fine particle mass. This demonstration project will lead to the development of measurement techniques that can be deployed in both ground-based and airborne studies in online and automated measurements, leading to a better characterization of the fine particle carbonaceous component and a better understanding of fine particle formation mechanisms. This project will support the work of a graduate student.
