Extramural Research
Sources and Atmospheric Formation of Organic Particulate Matter Progress Review
Grantee Research Project Results
Sources and Atmospheric Formation of Organic Particulate Matter Progress Review
September 21, 2010 One of the major air pollutants of concern, fine particulate matter (PM2.5), represents a broad class of chemically and physically diverse substances. Despite progress in the past few years, the understanding of the sources and processes that produce organic PM2.5 is incomplete due to its complex nature. Much evidence points toward biogenic sources of SOA precursors as an important contributor to organic PM2.5 that is either underrepresented or lacking in air quality models. Understanding the impacts of current air pollution strategies on biogenic PM2.5 is important, and will help propel the science to the point that enables effective policy options. EPA's National Center for Environmental Research, Science to Achieve Results (STAR) grantees will discuss the objectives, approaches, and results from their research with scientists from EPA, state agencies, other federal agencies, and industry.