The objective of this research program is to obtain data that can be used by EPA to evaluate the role of primary auto-exhaust aerosol in the subsequent formation of photochemical aerosol and to determine what relationships if any might exist between photochemical-aerosol formation and eye irritation. In pursuing the objective, experiments were conducted in which synthetic hydrocarbon-NOX-air mixtures and automobile exhaust-air mixtures were irradiated in a 610-cu ft smog chamber. Emphasis was placed on strict control of all experimental parameters, on complete detailed analyses of the formation of photochemical aerosols and on the chemistry associated with the formation of other photochemical-smog manifestations, including eye irritation. In addition to obtaining data pertinent to the stated objectives, data were obtained which revealed chemical mechanisms important in aerosol formation and physical mechanisms accounting for losses of aerosols in smog chambers. Among the topics discussed are the experimental results related to the following: (1) Aerosol formation and eye irritation; (2) Mechanisms of aerosol formation in smog and; (3) Influence of primary auto exhaust aerosols on development of secondary aerosols. Automotive exhaust generation and sampling are described as are data pertinent to aerosol collections by filtration.

Project Officer: W.E. Wilson. "Prepared for Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency." "December 1973." "Contract No. 68-02-0574 ; Project No. 21 AKB-9 ; Program Element No. 1AA008." "EPA/650-4-74-009." PB 244 745--NTIS. Includes bibliographical references.