Atmospheric particulate matter (PM) is related to adverse effects on visibility degradation, the Earth’s radiation balance, property damage, and human health. Research activities in DAS directly or indirectly address these issues.

The Environmental Analysis Facility (EAF) in DAS conducts routine analysis of organic carbon (OC) and elemental carbon (EC) for the IMPROVE (Interagency Monitoring of Protected Visual Environments Aerosols) network, which was designed to prevent future and remedy existing visibility impairment in Class I areas. Recently, projects have also been funded to study visibility monitoring and impairment in the Lake Tahoe Basin. Visibility is also critical in military applications.

The Organic Analytical Laboratory (OAL) provides high quality collection and analysis of trace organic contaminants and hazardous air pollutants in ambient air. OAL can perform a full range of sampling, laboratory analysis, data management and quality assurance services.

Please select a DAS research project for more information.