Polymers as Sensors of Atmospheric Particle pH

Goal: Develop a novel sensor capable of determining the pH of individual atmospheric particles.

This innovative research approach will involve evaluation of polymer film degradation under various pH conditions and upon impaction of model laboratory-generated aerosols. The novel polymer thin film sensor developed will be capable of measuring individual atmospheric particle pH, a critical property that drives secondary aerosol formation, thereby significantly governing regional air quality and climate.

This project is lead by: Prof. Julie Albert (Tulane University), Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering

                                Prof. Kerri Pratt (University of Michigan), Department of Chemistry

                                Prof. Andy Ault (University of Michigan), Department of Environmental Health Science and Chemistry