For immediate release 17 August 1995
AEROSOL EXPERTS THROW LIGHT ON AIR POLLUTION
Aerosols, defined as tiny particles or droplets of liquid suspended in gas, are generally innocuous. But some aerosols, such as the particles belched out of the exhausts of lorries and taxis, are far from harmless, contributing significantly to air pollution. Other aerosols, such as the volcanic dust particles released when Mt. Pinatubo erupted in the Philippines, can even interfere with global climatic systems.
Next week, at a short course on aerosols held at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, government officials from the Environmental Protection Department, academics and industry representatives will get a unique opportunity to hear the latest developments in research concerning these airborne particulate pollutants.
The three-day course will examine the unique physical and chemical properties of aerosols which control their behaviour in the atmosphere and affect the choice of methods used to measure and characterise them.
Special emphasis will be placed on aerosol measurement, with an introduction to recent advances in the sampling of aerosols and ‘hands-on’ experience in using the latest instruments.
“In view of the prevalent air pollution in Hong Kong, aerosol research is greatly needed,” said Dr Chak Keung Chan, Assistant Professor of Chemical Engineering at HKUST and one of the organisers of the short course.
good place to start for local industrialists and academics,” he added “Given that aerosol research is still in its infancy in Hong Kong, this courseisa Professor John H. Seinfeld, a well-known pioneer in the chemistry and physics of air pollution and aerosol science, will start the proceedings by detailing the basic properties of aerosols. Professor Seinfeld, currently at the California Institute of Technology, is a former president of the American Association for Aerosol Research and a member of the U.S. National Academy of Engineering.
The other course leaders are Professor David Pui and Mr Gilmore Sem from the University of Minnesota, and Wladyslaw W. Szymanski from the University of Vienna. They are all experts in aerosol instrumentation.
Topic: “Aerosols (Airborne Particulate Pollutants): Atmospheric Properties and Measurement”
Date: 23-25 August 1995
Venue: Chen Kuan Cheng Forum (Lecture Theatre H), HKUST
ote to Edrtors . .
Please direct enquiries to the Office of Public Affairs at 2358 6306 or pager 1163388 call 2651.
