Source apportionment of atmospheric pollutants
Non-exhaust Emission using Tunnel Measurements
Information relating to particle concentrations from non-exhaust sources is mainly based on simulated driving tests which have a number of uncertainties associated with them. In order to assist with identifying non-exhaust sources and quantifying their emissions, their physical properties and chemical composition needs to be established. By using tunnel measurements to collect samples for use within source apportionment studies allows the characterisation of particles emissions from road transport including non-exhaust sources. Instrumented road tunnels act as large laboratories; they allow the characterisation of particulate matter from a mixed, on-road fleet. By sampling simultaneously the particles at the tunnel entrance and inside the tunnel, the difference in concentrations can be assigned to the traffic activity.
Samples of PM10 collected within the Hatfield Tunnel, UK are analysed for metal and organic compounds. This combined metal and organic dataset will produce a unique and possibly the first UK dataset of this type for source apportionment of non-exhaust sources. Through source apportionment studies it is possible to investigate the sources of atmospheric particles. Using this technique will allow the examination of non-exhaust emissions and gain a greater understanding of the mechanisms in which this particles are generated. This will assist to develop pollution control and abatement strategies.
Further information regarding the chemical analysis of these samples can be found here (LINK TO OTHER PAGE)
References
Martin S, Sokhi R.S and Mao H. (2007). Investigation of metal concentrations within PM10 particles using tunnel sampling techniques, 6th International Conference on Urban Air Quality, Limassol, Cyprus.
Luhana L, Sokhi R, Warner L, Mao H, Boulter P, McCrae I, Wright J and Osborn D (2004). Characterisation of Exhaust Particulate Emissions from Road Vehicles (Particulates); FP5 Particulates Project
Acknowledgements
Funding was provided by the NERC (www.nerc.ac.uk) and BOC Foundation (www.boc-gases.com/foundation/).