Author ORCID Identifier

https://orcid.org/0009-0005-7915-4516

Semester

Summer

Date of Graduation

2025

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Type

PhD

College

School of Public Health

Department

Occupational & Environmental Health Sciences

Committee Chair

Michael McCawley

Committee Member

Travis Knuckles

Committee Member

Ranjita Misra

Committee Member

Marcus Cervantes

Committee Member

Sijin Wen

Abstract

Abstract

Developing a Simplified Method of Measuring Ultrafine Particulate Matter Dose

Concentrations for Diesel Emissions

Ultra-fine particulate matter (UFP), particularly from diesel emissions, poses significant health and environmental risks due to its small size and potential to penetrate deep into the respiratory system. Accurate measurement of UFP concentrations is essential for assessing exposure and mitigating health impacts. However, current methods for measuring UFP can be complex, time-consuming, and costly. This study aims to develop a simplified method for efficiently measuring UFP concentrations from diesel emissions, which will enable easier and more widespread monitoring of air quality and public health impacts. By streamlining the measurement process, this approach seeks to improve data collection, reduce costs, and enhance the ability to monitor and manage diesel-related air pollution. Thus, the overall goal of this project is to develop a simplified and cost-effective method for measuring ultra-fine particulate matter (UFP) concentrations from diesel emission. The primary objective of this study is to develop a simplified method for measuring exposure to ultrafine particles (UFP) using truck traffic counts. This approach aimed to uncover how regions with complex terrain experience elevated UFP concentrations due to transportation-related emissions. By demonstrating the influence of topographical features on the accumulation of UFP through correlation analyses, this study provided valuable insights into the environmental and public health implications of UFP exposure in such settings. The proposed hypothesis is that there exists a positive correlation between UFP concentrations and the presence of heavy-duty trucks, suggesting that areas with higher numbers of truck traffic exhibit elevated levels of UFP concentration and that the ratio increases with rugged terrain and speed. The two specific aims were to: 1) Develop a correlation equation between heavy-duty truck traffic volume and Ultra-fine particulate matter concentration (as determined by the number concentration and real-time size distribution measurements). 2) Investigate the effects of complex topography on the measured correlation of UFP from diesel emissions compared to flat open topography. This research is an integral addition to the broader knowledge base on air pollution and a key aspect that informs public health implications particularly of Unconventional Natural Gas Drilling (UNGD) operations and urban planning in the future. Specifically, it addresses the heightened risk of ultrafine particulate matter (UFP) exposure in regions near Unconventional Natural Gas Drilling (UNGD) operations and Hydraulic fracturing. By developing a novel methodology to assess UFP concentrations and their health implications, this study provides valuable insights into the environmental and public health challenges posed by diesel emissions.

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