Characterizing Anion and Metal Aerosol Composition and Formation in Arctic Air

Fairbanks, Alaska is classified as a “serious non-attainment zone” due to the exposure of high levels of air pollutants throughout the winter months. This causes the city to violate the Fine Particulate Matter (PM 2.5) National Ambient Air Quality Standards set in place by the United States Environmental Protection Agency. These fine particulates, with a diameter less than 2.5 μm, are pollutants that cause major health risks to the citizens of Fairbanks. Previous studies have shown the significant amount of sulfate aerosols observed in Fairbanks winters, but the chemical transformation of sulfate aerosols in the atmosphere is still unknown. While secondary aerosol formation is commonly catalyzed by oxidants, these species are limited in Fairbanks winter months. This indicates formation must occur through a non-traditional pathway, and this project will investigate the mechanism in which transition metals catalyze formation. Winter air samples will be collected using a Particle into Liquid Sampler (PILS) and analysis of sulfate and metal concentrations will be conducted using Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) and Ion Chromatography (IC). By establishing a link between the two species and a mechanism of formation, the source of the poor winter air quality in addition to the adverse health effects such as respiratory and cardiovascular issues due to polluted air will be investigated.