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Role of Atmospheric Boundary Layer Dynamics on Summertime Air Pollution in the North Wasatch Front
The project will analyze air quality and meteorology data collected during the 2024 Utah Summer Ozone Study (USOS) to investigate the role of atmospheric boundary layer dynamics in summertime ozone in the Salt Lake City region. One main task is to conduct a comprehensive analysis of boundary layer dynamics using airborne Doppler lidar measurements and…
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Advancing Biogenic VOC Emissions Modeling for the Wasatch Front: Emission Factors, Speciation, and Stress-Induced Emissions
The project aims to improve Biogenic Volatile Organic Compound (BVOC) Emissions Modeling for the Wasatch Front, which is essential for developing effective air pollution control strategies for the region’s ozone nonattainment. The scope of work includes synthesizing an updated BVOC emission factor database, enhancing rural landcover inputs for the MEGAN model using datasets like LANDFIRE…
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Comprehensive Google Earth Engine and Satellite Data Analysis Tools to Assess the Impacts of VOC-NOx Sensitivity, Smoke, Heat, Drought, and Plant Stress on Ozone Concentrations in Utah and the Northern Wasatch Front
The goal of this study is to assess summertime ozone sensitivity to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and oxides of nitrogen (NOx), as well as the impact of changing conditions like wildfire smoke and drought, on ozone concentrations in the Northern Wasatch Front. The core methodology will focus on the Formaldehyde-Nitrogen Ratio (FNR), derived from TROPOMI…
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Assessing Community Exposure to Ambient Particulate Matter from the Great Salt Lake
The shrinking Great Salt Lake exposes over 750 square miles of potentially metal-contaminated lakebed dust, and this project aims to quantify community exposure to the resulting airborne PM10 in Wasatch Front communities. The methodology involves a combination of continuous PM monitoring, analysis of particle size, oxidative potential, and metal/organic carbon composition. These measurements will be…
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VOC to NOx relationships and Impacts of Smoke on Ozone in the Wasatch Front
To meet ozone standards in the Wasatch Front, this project analyzes the role of local and non-local emissions, especially from wildfires. Researchers will assess wildfire impacts on ozone and PM2.5 levels using satellite and in-situ data, and study ozone sensitivity to NOx and VOCs through formaldehyde-to-NO2 ratios. Insights from this work will inform emission reduction…
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Temporal and Spatial Measurements of Surface-to-Boundary Layer Ozone using Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS)
Using drones and portable ozone monitors, this research will capture detailed pollutant data near the Great Salt Lake to complement existing ground and airborne measurements. Coordinated with the Utah Summer Ozone Study (USOS), the project will gather crucial information on ozone and other pollutants to address research goals on ozone sources and vertical oxidant exchange.
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Quantification of Halogen-Initiated Atmospheric Chemistry in the Wasatch Front
Focused on the unique atmospheric chemistry of Salt Lake City, this study investigates the influence of regional halogen emissions on ozone and particulate matter. By measuring chlorine-induced reactions with volatile organic compounds, researchers will quantify the extent of halogen-driven oxidation. The findings will provide essential data on how regional industrial emissions contribute to air quality…
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Projecting the impacts of a shrinking Great Salt Lake on dust exposure along the Wasatch Front
This project examines the dust exposure risks from the receding Great Salt Lake, using models to simulate dust emissions and transport across the Wasatch Front. It will evaluate the impact of different water levels on dust exposure, providing Utah DAQ with data to determine dust source contributions and identify communities at risk.
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Improving Soil NOx Emission Estimates for the Wasatch Front
This study examines the impact of soil nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions on air quality in the Northern Wasatch Front, with a focus on refining NOx emissions modeling. By updating inputs in the Berkeley-Dalhousie Soil NOx Parameterization (BDSNP) for the MEGAN biogenic emissions model, the project aims to improve NOx emission estimates. Results will enhance understanding…
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Assessing Global Background Ozone Transport Pathways to the Northern Wasatch Front
This project uses high-resolution modeling to explore how international and regional ozone is transported into the Northern Wasatch Front. By analyzing vertical transport patterns, the study will provide a mechanistic understanding of ozone levels in the area, supporting regulatory planning. The findings are crucial for refining air quality models and informing future policy demonstrations.
