This is a past event.

Environmental Engineering Graduate Seminar

Tanvir Khan, Ph.D., Senior Research Engineer, National Council for Air and Stream Improvement (NCASI)

Abstract:

This seminar will address key aspects of air quality by examining both indoor and outdoor environments, with a focus on their measurement and assessment methodologies. Wholebuilding air exchange is essential for maintaining healthy indoor air quality (IAQ) in residential settings. To address the significant data gap related to IAQ quantification and the relationship between contaminant levels and air exchange in U.S. homes, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Building America Program has conducted a national study. This study characterizes IAQ in homes constructed since 2013 and evaluates the presence, functionality, and use of control measures. The study protocol will be introduced, along with high-level results from data collected by the Florida Solar Energy Center (FSEC) in southeastern U.S. states. The seminar will then delve into the complexities of air quality data, focusing on methodologies for measuring fine particulate matter (PM2.5) as assessed by the U.S. regulatory network. Particular emphasis will be placed on the Federal Reference Method (FRM) and Federal Equivalent Method (FEM), discussing their reliability and intercomparability. This comparability is crucial, given the recent revision of the annual PM2.5 National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) from 12 µg/m³ to 9 µg/m³ and its implications for industry permitting. Additionally, the seminar will address the growing use of next-generation (NextGen) air sensors by communities and citizen scientists. Despite their increasing adoption, data quality remains a significant concern. The presentation will highlight the importance of evaluating sensor performance and comparing their data with FRM and/or FEM methods to assess their advantages and limitations. 

Bio:

Tanvir Khan is a Senior Research Engineer at the National Council for Air and Stream Improvement (NCASI), where he leverages his expertise in ambient and indoor air quality measurements, atmospheric sciences, and environmental data analysis. He provides tailored support and technical guidance to forest products industry members, assisting them in navigating regulatory requirements and implementing best practices for effective air quality management. At NCASI, Dr. Khan’s current research focuses on evaluating PM2.5 equivalent methods to ensure their accuracy and reliability, which is crucial for regulatory compliance. He also tests and validates emerging air quality measurement technologies, including low-cost and nextgeneration sensors, and conducts technology assessments to keep the industry informed about the latest advancements and practical applications. Additionally, Dr. Khan supports the industry in understanding and effectively utilizing environmental justice tools by clarifying their capabilities, limitations, and proper data interpretation. Before joining NCASI, Dr. Khan served as a Postdoctoral Research Associate at the Florida Solar Energy Center (FSEC), where he investigated the impact of whole-house mechanical ventilation systems on indoor air quality in southeastern U.S. homes. He earned his Ph.D. in Environmental Engineering from Michigan Technological University, where his research focused on enhancing parameterizations of particle deposition and surface-atmosphere exchange processes of mercury used in global chemical transport models.

Links:  

https://www.ncasi.org  

https://www.ncasi.org/staff/tanvir-khan/ ;