Dynamics of Fine and Ultrafine Particulate Matter in Biomass Burning Kitchens in Western Kenya: Field Sampling Methodology and Modeling Framework
Abstract
This study is motivated by the goals of a healthcare organization in Western Kenya, AMPATH Kenya, to design modified kitchens exhibiting reduced indoor air pollution (IAP) for women and children in Nandi County, Kenya. IAP and ventilation measurements were taken in three modified and six traditional kitchens in January and June–July of 2017. Fine and ultrafine particulate matter (PM, 10 nm to 2.5 μm) concentrations were measured at breathing zone height using field-portable electrical particle charging-based instruments. CO concentrations and stove temperatures were also recorded. PM emission rates (min-1), coagulation rates (h-1), and air exchange rates (h-1) were elucidated for each kitchen through application of an aerosol physics-based material balance model. Fine and ultrafine PM concentrations were often in the range of 105 to > 106 cm-3 during cooking periods, with emission rates ranging from 1011 to 1013 min-1. Modified kitchens, with air exchange rates from 30 to 40 h-1, were found to preserve features of original Nandi cultural styles and reduce fine and ultrafine PM and CO exposures by as much as 80%. The mechanistic techniques used to measure and model in-situ cooking emissions can be used to estimate personal exposure and health outcomes, as well as adapted to future field studies.
Degree
M.S.
Advisors
Boor, Purdue University.
Subject Area
Environmental engineering
Off-Campus Purdue Users:
To access this dissertation, please log in to our
proxy server.