WHAT: Smog Chamber
WHERE: Building 36, CSIRO Mineral Research Laboratory, North Ryde, Australia
WHO: Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO), Division of Energy Technology
WHY: To understand the basic chemistry of smog and its effect on human health. The instruments inside the 706-cubic-foot automated chamber can measure particles as small as 4 nanometers, allowing CSIRO scientists to study air samples with even the lowest levels of pollution. The data will be used to develop smog models to help researchers and governments assess proposed environmental policies.
HOW: After filling the indoor chamber with clean air (it has less than 0.5 parts per billion nitrogen oxide [NOx], with a total hydrocarbon concentration of less than 2 parts per billion carbon), scientists add known amounts of NOx and an aerosol or gaseous compound. High-precision analyzers then begin monitoring smog-related reactions : the formation of ozone and nonmethane hydrocarbons, as well as the decomposition of the NOx and the pollutant being studied. In December, after 10 months of testing and trials, CSIRO researchers launched a comprehensive study of the hydrocarbon 1,3-butadiene, a carcinogen.
MORE: www.det.csiro.au
