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Spatial, temporal, and interspecies patterns in fine particulate matter in Texas
Kristi A Gebhart1, William C Malm, Lowell L Ashbaugh
1National Park Service, Air Resources Division, Cooperative Institute for Research in the Atmosphere, Colorado State University, Fort Collins 80523, USA. gebhart@cira.colostate.edu
Journal of the Air & Waste Management Association (1995)
|December 15, 2005
Summary
The Big Bend Regional Aerosol and Visibility Observational (BRAVO) study identified sulfate as a major contributor to haze in Texas. Sulfur sources varied seasonally and geographically, with some linked to industrial plants and urban areas.
Area of Science:
- Atmospheric Science
- Environmental Chemistry
- Air Quality Research
Background:
- Haze impacts visibility and air quality in national parks.
- The Big Bend Regional Aerosol and Visibility Observational (BRAVO) study aimed to understand haze causes at Big Bend National Park, Texas (BBNP).
- Fine particulate matter (<2.5 microm) significantly contributes to haze and light extinction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the spatial, temporal, and interspecies patterns of fine particulate matter.
- To identify source regions and types influencing particulate concentrations in Texas, focusing on sulfates.
- To examine the characteristics of high sulfur episodes at BBNP.
Main Methods:
- Conducted the BRAVO field study from July to October 1999.
- Measured daily speciated fine particulate concentrations at 37 sites across Texas.
- Performed high-sensitivity 24-hr fine particulate elemental analysis at the K-Bar Ranch receptor site.
Main Results:
- Peak sulfur concentrations varied spatially and seasonally, with maximums in Northeast Texas (summer) and at BBNP (fall).
- Sulfate acidity at BBNP showed monthly variations.
- Identified sources of sulfur (S) and selenium (Se) in Northeast Texas and from industrial plants; linked carbon to urban sources, likely Houston; noted African dust influence and Mexican air mass impact (vanadium); observed decreased lead levels in southern Texas.
Conclusions:
- Sulfates are the primary contributor to fine particulate mass and light extinction in Texas.
- Haze at BBNP is influenced by diverse sources, including regional industrial emissions, urban pollution, and long-range transport (e.g., African dust).
- Understanding these varied sources is crucial for developing effective air quality management strategies.