MECAP Sulfur Dioxide & Nitrogen Dioxide Monitoring Project
This project will measure and evaluate the concentrations of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide in the tri-city area encompassing Granite City, Madison, and Venice.
The project deploys Radiello Passive samplers for a one week time frame at 25 different locations throughout the tri-city area. The samplers are deployed every other month for one year. While this study will help identify potential hotspots, it will not determine whether an area is meeting federal standards.
The purpose of this monitoring project is:
- To demonstrate the use of low cost technology
- To identify potential areas of concern
- To involve community members in the process
- To serve as an opportunity for public engagement
- To contribute to a better understanding of local exposures
What is sulfur dioxide?
Sulfur dioxide (SO2) is a known respiratory aggravator for conditions such as asthma and emphysema. Elevated levels may lead to increased emergency room visits and hospitalizations. The largest sources of SO2 are from fossil fuel combustion at power plants and other industrial facilities. Smaller sources of SO2 emissions include burning of high sulfur fuels by large ships, trains and non-road equipment.
What is nitrogen dioxide?
Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) forms as a result of fossil fuel combustion from vehicles and industry. It contributes to the formation of ground-level ozone and fine particle pollution, which are linked to multiple negative health effects. NO2 is known to contribute to decreased lung function, respiratory infections, bronchitis, and pneumonia.
Partnerships
Dr. Jay Turner at Washington University assisted in developing a design plan for this monitoring study.
The Illinois State Water Survey Central Analytical Laboratory (ISWS/CAL) of the Prairie Research Institute at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign performs all lab analysis for this study, measuring gaseous ambient nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and sulfur dioxide (SO2) concentrations.
Passive Sampling Method
To measure sulfur dioxide, we are using Radiello Passive Samplers which measures both sulfur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide. The actual sample is housed in a protective container with the bottom side exposed to the surrounding environment. Once the samples are deployed, gaseous pollutants diffuse across the surface to an absorbing material which accumulates over time. After the samples are collected, the laboratory technicians release the pollutants by chemical or thermal means and the contents are quantitatively analyzed and measured.
Metro East Community Air Project
618-514-7854
1 Regency Plaza
Collinsville, IL 62234
