Sensitive nuclear analytical techniques are used to chemically characterize highly size-fractionated samples of atmospheric particulate matter obtained by inertial impaction. Several years ago, the group demonstrated the existence of fine structure in the distributions of chemical components in urban submicrometer aerosol particles. This work has led to improved techniques for resolving the sources of natural and anthropogenic atmospheric pollutants on both regional and global scales, and has provided some of the first data on the growth of particles bearing important trace metals during atmospheric transport. We are currently using these techniques to determine the atmospheric inputs of trace elements to the Chesapeake Bay and Lake Michigan. Size distribution and growth studies have recently been completed for aerosol particles depositing onto the surface waters of the Chesapeake Bay.
Similar studies are underway on Lake Michigan.
Developing a New Tracer for Atmospheric Particles with Stable Rare Earth Isotopes. Invited Article , Analytical Chemistry . Bearing Various Elements in Rural Air. As, Se, Sb, and Zn in College Park Aerosol. Size distribution of Ir-tagged soot from diesel sanitation trucks.