AIR QUALITY ENGINEERING Chemical engineering principles are applied to the study of how humans impact the atmospheric environment. Research involving field observation, laboratory studies and computer modeling is performed to advance our scientific understanding and to help establish policies to protect our environment. Our Group Much of our work involves the development and application of state of the art three dimensional models. These models are an essential element of environmental research. We are combining air quality modeling with modern optimization techniques and parallel computing to develop optimal emission control strategies. Cheju Island We have established an observation site at Cheju (Korea). Cheju is strategically located to measure pollutants from China, Korea and Japan. This data is used along with our models to better understand the mechanisms of atmospheric chemistry and transport in this important region. Ozone (a primary component of smog) effects both humans and plants. The present air quality standard is 120 ppb; however, crop damage can occur when ozone reaches above 60 ppb. Shown are model calculated ozone concentrations. An important challenge over the next decade will be to reduce the emissions of ozone precursors. We are involved in global scale studies. Shown left are calculated mineral aerosol column amounts. Satellite observations are used to verify model results. Asia with its large population and rapidly expanding economies is an important area for the study of air pollution. We are involved in many studies including a detailed integrated assessment of energy and environment. This study is being used by policy makers and scientists through out Asia. Emissions in Asia will exceed those in North America and Europe combined in the next decade. Widespread ecosystem damage due to acid deposition is expected in the future under business as usual assumptions. The exceedances shown here are higher than those for the black triangle region of eastern Europe. Our research requires the analysis of three dimensional data sets. We use computer visualization tools extensively in our studies. Shown here are calculated dust (blue iso surface), SO2 concentration (yellow contours), and vertical wind fields for Mission 10 (March 7, 1994) of the NASA PEM WEST field study.