The NETL PM 2.5 In-house research program is aimed at specific research goals and objectives to provide insight into the degree that coal-fired electric power generating stations contribute to the primary PM load in Pittsburgh, PA. The In-house PM sampling and analyses program also provides state-of-the-art characterization of organic components, insight into the formation and atmospheric chemistry of secondary PM, and gives comparisons of the mass of PM at NETL and the surrounding area. The diurnal and seasonal variations in fine PM at NETL is correlated with urban Pittsburgh, Morgantown, as part of the Upper Ohio River Valley Project (UORVP).

A variety of sophisticated sampling equipment and proven methods are used to accomplish these purposes. The experimental approach to achieve NETL’s objectives employs quantification of spherical aluminosilicate (SAS) particles, a somewhat unique emission from high temperature coal combustion. The total primary and secondary particle load is measured and the number of SAS particles determined, allowing an estimate of the direct contribution that coal-fired power plants make to the total primary load. A Particle Concentrator-BYU Organic Sampling System (PC-BOSS) is used to perform functional group analysis for potentially carcinogenic –NOx containing semi-volatile compounds.