Of particular interest are secondary organic aerosols (SOA) which comprise approximately 70% of the annual global production of total organic matter. The present work focuses on the formation of secondary organic aerosols through aqueous processes (aqSOA) that has been identified as an important route in forming organic aerosols; however, many aspects of aqSOA formation are still uncertain. State-of-the-art literature shows clear discrepancies in explaining SOA formation, possibly due to major uncertainties in understanding the pathways, sources as well as precursors involved in the formation process. Thus, the identification of reactions responsible for forming these particles requires a better understanding of the pathways that govern their formation. Our research aims to better understand the sources and processes that affect atmospheric aerosol concentrations in order to formulate solutions that could help to reduce the associated undesired impact of air pollution. 

Microplastic (MP) pollution has been targeted by many studies due to its potential, yet unknown, adverse effects on marine life, wildlife, as well as human health. However, these studies were primarily conducted in the marine environment, with limited studies investigating MPs in the atmosphere. 

Our group is interested in the: 1) identification of the sizes, shapes and size distribution of MPs in the atmosphere, 2) characterization of the chemical composition of atmospheric MPs, 3) determination of the spatial distribution of MPs, and 4) identification of the source(s) of MPs by examining local versus long-range transport influences using trajectory modeling techniques. 

Health issues associated with these particles is studied based on results of size distributions. Further, a holistic approach is adopted in order to better understand the transport of these particles between the marine, atmospheric and terrestrial environments, and the subsequent health issues associated with them. Overall, this work offers excellent opportunities to society as it will enhance our knowledge about MP pollution and its impact on heath, soils, and water bodies.

Particulate matter (PM) has been recognized as a detrimental pollutant in the atmosphere causing several adverse impacts on human health as well as on the environment. In the United States, similar to many other countries, concentrations of PM are monitored and enforced by regulations based on the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS). Nonetheless, these conventional monitoring technologies are limited in capturing the spatial and temporal variations in atmospheric PM concentrations at fine scales. Additionally, observations from these technologies possess inherent limitations due to relatively high cost and size. 

The goal of this project is to (1) improve the accessibility of air quality sensors, (2) increase the number of air quality observations, and (3) increase the spatial resolution of air quality sensors using low-cost sensors (LCSs) using three different multi-dimensional modes of operation: (1) stationary (1D), (2) mobile on manned vehicles (2D), and (3) mobile on an unmanned aerial vehicles (3D). 

Earlier this year, the world has faced an unprecedented pandemic caused by the novel COVID-19 virus. Although directly infecting millions of people and killing at least one million people around the globe, the indirect impacts of this pandemic were globally experienced. Most cities have been locked down reducing people’s daily commute and hence the transportation patterns and traffic load. While this shutdown negatively impacted many economically and socially, it is suggested to positively impact air quality in many places worldwide such as China, Italy, and many countries in Europe. 

The goal of this project is to characterize the impact of the lockdown associated with COVID-19 pandemic in major cities using concentrations of main atmospheric pollutants such as: ozone, NOx, and particulate matter.