Characterization of Ambient Particulate Matter Using Electron Microscopy and Raman Spectroscopy Techniques

conducting studies to better understand the composition of ambient particulate matter with the goal of improving the current knowledge on the relationship between anthropogenic emission sources and ambient concentrations. As part of the overall DOE-NETL effort, electron microscopy and Raman spectroscopy techniques are being employed to provide detailed information on individual particle characteristics. Work conducted to date has focused on spherical alumino-silicate (SAS) particles, carbon and sulfur-bearing species. SAS particles are of interest because they are a by-product of coal combustion and can be used as a tracer for coal-fired power plant emissions. Carbon particles are being investigated to provide additional information on elemental and organic components associated with PM2.5 and PM10. Sulfur-bearing particles are being characterized to provide additional insight on sulfur species and to investigate potential relationships to other particle species such as SAS. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), computer controlled scanning electron microscop