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Project Code [2013-EH-MS-15]

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Project title

Source Apportionment of Particulate Matter in Rural and Urban Residential Areas (SAPPHIRE)

Primary Funding Agency

Environmental Protection Agency

Co-Funding Organisation(s)

n/a

Lead Organisation

University College Cork (UCC)

Lead Applicant

John Wenger

Project Abstract

Airborne particulate matter (PM) can have a significant impact on human health and further research is required to determine its nature and origins. The SAPPHIRE project will deliver the most detailed information to date on the chemical composition and sources of airborne particulate matter in rural and urban residential areas of Ireland. Field measurements of the size distribution, mass concentration and chemical composition of PM will be performed in representative urban and rural sites and complemented with comprehensive off-line chemical analysis for selected pollutants, including heavy metals and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. Source apportionment modelling will be performed to quantify the contributions of major source categories, such as vehicle emissions and domestic solid fuel (coal, peat and wood) burning to the ambient levels of PM. The expected results will provide policy makers with a sound scientific basis for development of strategies to reduce particulate pollution, particularly in relation to the use of solid fuels for home heating. The SAPPHIRE project will significantly advance our understanding of the chemical composition and sources of airborne particulate matter in contrasting urban and rural environments in Ireland. The research is expected to result in peer-reviewed publications in the scientific literature and presentations at international conferences, whilst also developing research capacity and expertise in Ireland. The final report and policy brief will provide valuable information to policy makers working in the area of air pollution abatement.

Grant Approved

�199,916.45

Research Hub

Healthy Environment

Research Theme

Environment and Human Health

Start Date

01/04/2014

Initial Projected Completion Date

01/04/2016