News Release
Energy & Environmental Research Center
University of North Dakota
P.O. Box 9018 Grand Forks, ND 58202
Phone: (701) 777-5000
Fax: (701) 777-5181
Web: http://www.eerc.und.nodak.edu
NOVEMBER 26, 1997 -- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Particle Matter Air Pollution Focus of New Research Program
GRAND FORKS, N.D. -- The University of North Dakota Energy & Environmental Research Center (EERC) has established a program to conduct research and demonstrate technologies related to fine particle matter, an air pollutant that affects human health and the environment.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is concerned about particles 2.5 microns or smaller (a micron is 1/1,000 of a millimeter or .00004 inch). Known as PM2.5, these are microscopic chemical particles--both solid and liquid--suspended in the air. When inhaled, the particles can cause respiratory illnesses that have the potential to increase mortality rates. Although the individual particles are invisible to the human eye, when present in high concentrations, PM2.5 is visible as haze or smog.
Much of the PM2.5 in the atmosphere is produced by human activities such as energy use, agriculture and chemical production, among others. However, it can also be produced from natural sources, including sea spray, wind-blown dust, volcanic eruptions and forest fires. Studies indicate a direct relationship between human mortality rates and PM2.5.
In announcing the Center for Particle Matter, EERC director Gerald Groenewold says, "We have been working for years in the area of fine particle matter and have demonstrated our expertise in conducting groundbreaking research on PM2.5 analytical techniques and control technologies. Establishing a Center for Particle Matter within the EERC formalizes the program and demonstrates our commitment to working in partnership with government, industry and other organizations, just as we have in the past on important environmental issues."
EPA is currently proposing revisions to national air quality standards for PM2.5 as a result of a lawsuit filed by the American Lung Association. The proposed PM2.5 standards could cost industry and agriculture billions of dollars, cause job loss and put many heavily populated areas out of compliance with the regulations. Environmental and health organizations say that without more stringent standards, thousands will continue to die prematurely each year and visibility will be affected in once-pristine areas.
This is a very controversial issue," says Dennis Laudal, project manager for the EERC's Center for Particle Matter, Although a number of studies have shown adverse health effects associated with PM2.5, a great deal remains unknown or is not well understood. The role of particle size and chemical composition and their effects on human health have yet to be determined. By developing a better understanding in this area, the EERC will assist in identifying contributors to PM2.5 pollution."
Steve Benson, EERC associate director, says "The EERC's Center for Particle Matter will provide information to effectively evaluate the health effects of fine particle matter and develop economical technologies to control and prevent the formation of PM2.5."
Benson says the EERC's Center for Particle Matter will serve as a central source of information on the composition, chemical makeup and quantities of fine particles at specific locations. To assist in the development of regulations and design of health studies, the center will study how particles form and how PM2.5 is transported through the atmosphere. In addition, it will provide a forum for government, industry and other participating organizations to discuss issues and directions.
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For More Information Contact:
Gerald Groenewold, EERC director, at (701) 777-5131 or [email protected]
Steve Benson, EERC associate director, at (701) 777-5177 or [email protected]
Dennis Laudal, EERC research manager, at (701) 777-5138 or [email protected]
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