Atmospheric aerosols, which range in diameter from approximately 0.01 to 10 µm, play a crucial role in Earth’s climate by scattering and absorbing solar radiation. They also act as nuclei for cloud formation. Atmospheric aerosols are one of the major uncertain factors in climate change projections, as acknowledged by researchers worldwide. In addition to their climate impact, aerosols are linked to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, resulting in millions of premature deaths annually. They also facilitate multiphase reactions that negatively affect atmospheric composition.
Our research aims to quantify and understand the critical physical and chemical properties of atmospheric aerosols, thereby improving predictive models for air quality, climate, and atmospheric composition. These improved predictive models can guide policymakers in developing cost-effective policies to protect the environment and human health.
We focus on various physical and chemical properties of atmospheric aerosols, including heterogeneous chemistry, phase behavior (number and types of phases), viscosity, intraparticle diffusion, optical properties, and ice-nucleating ability. Our research includes laboratory and field measurements and collaborations with atmospheric modelers. Types of aerosols we study include wildfire aerosol (wildfire smoke), mineral dust aerosol, bioaerosols, aerosols from the transportation sector, and microplastics.
