Research summary
Particulate matter consists of tiny solid and liquid particles that are released into the air from sources like transportation, energy production and wildfires. Exposure to atmospheric particulate matter, both outside and indoors, is one of the top environmental risk factors for premature death. But its toxicity (and the processes that affect its toxicity) remain unclear due to the varied sources and chemical complexities of particulate matter. As Canada Research Chair in Aerosol Chemistry, Dr. Jenny Wong is uncovering how the chemistry of particulate matter contributes to its harmful effects on human health.
She and her research team are using state-of-the-art analytical tools to investigate the sources, reactivity and toxicological properties of metal-containing particulate matter. They are trying to determine how particulate matter changes as it moves through the atmosphere. Their aim is to improve our understanding of how the chemistry of particulate matter contributes to its harmful health effects.