Identifier

etd-11162015-154417

Degree

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Plant, Enviromental and Soil Sciences

Document Type

Thesis

Abstract

This research documents the process of designing a technique, materials, and method to filter particulate matter (PM) deposited on surfaces in homes. PM collected from homes in a known industrial corridor, Baton Rouge, was tested for key pollutants sorbed to their surface in an investigation of household air depositions. This research successfully designed a collection method for bulk samples and a filtration apparatus and method for collecting sized laboratory testable samples using porous membrane filtration technology. This research found relatively high concentrations of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and the presence of some metals. This research also found the presence of persistent, organic radicals in homes which may be environmentally persistent free radicals (EPFRs). EPFRs are formed in industrial processes and are an emerging pollutant of importance described by the Louisiana State University Superfund Research Center. The manner in which organics, metals, and EPFRs exist as particle-pollutant systems in real environmental conditions will require more study. Further research can also be undertaken to draw spatial relations between sources of particle pollution and particle abundance and chemical composition on surfaces in homes in Baton Rouge and other urban areas.

Date

2015

Document Availability at the Time of Submission

Secure the entire work for patent and/or proprietary purposes for a period of one year. Student has submitted appropriate documentation which states: During this period the copyright owner also agrees not to exercise her/his ownership rights, including public use in works, without prior authorization from LSU. At the end of the one year period, either we or LSU may request an automatic extension for one additional year. At the end of the one year secure period (or its extension, if such is requested), the work will be released for access worldwide.

Committee Chair

Walsh, Maud

DOI

10.31390/gradschool_theses.1700

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