Testing and Characterizing a Novel Sampling Method for Aerosols : Application of SPE for Oxidized Gas-Phase Compounds

The aim of this research was to develop a novel sampling method to collect volatile and semi-volatile organic compounds, and particle matter, in aerosol samples. Aerosols have both biogenic and anthropogenic sources. Primary organic aerosols (POA) are directly emitted, while secondary organic aerosols (SOAs) are formed by reaction of gas-phase compounds in the atmosphere. The sampling method developed in this research will enable the collection of a complete range of compounds, with the ultimate goal of allowing regulatory agencies and scientists to improve the development and testing of computer models that predict the roles of aerosols in atmospheric and health sciences