Distribution and effects of automotive exhaust gases in Los Angeles

Journal Article · Sat Jan 01 04:00:00 EST 1972 · SAE Prog. Technol.; (United States)

OSTI ID:6702419

Larson, G P; Chipman, J C; Kauper, E K

Studies completed by the District indicated that certain hydrocarbons react in the atmosphere with other gases and yield a variety of adverse effects. Research identified petroleum as one source of these hydrocarbons. Automobile exhaust gases were suspected as another important source. The measurements of the quantity of hydrocarbons emitted by internal combustion engines were accomplished by the test procedures reported. It was learned that significant quantities of hydrocarbons were emitted and that they would react in the same manner as in consumed gasoline. The areas of exhaust gas concentration buildup were determined by a study of Los Angeles traffic. It was established that this condition occurred west of Los Angeles civic center just before 8:00 a.m., which was attributable to the early morning traffic peak. The possibility of another source of hydrocarbons contributing to the downtown buildup was explored. Atmospheric sampling and several years of micrometeorological studies by the District led to the conclusion that the refining concentration in the southern part of the county is a separate source of hydrocarbons, which do not contribute to the air pollution in the Los Angeles downtown area. The intense traffic concentration is sufficient in itself to produce moderate to heavy eye irritation in the central area of the county and must be controlled to eliminate this air pollution.

• Research Organization: Air Pollution Control District, Los Angeles, CA
• OSTI ID: 6702419
• Journal Information: SAE Prog. Technol.; (United States), Journal Name: SAE Prog. Technol.; (United States) Vol. 6; ISSN SAPTA
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

33 ADVANCED PROPULSION SYSTEMS
330700* -- Advanced Propulsion Systems-- Emission Control
500200 -- Environment
Atmospheric-- Chemicals Monitoring & Transport-- (-1989)
54 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES
AIR POLLUTION
AIR POLLUTION CONTROL
AUTOMOBILES
CALIFORNIA
CHEMICAL COMPOSITION
DATA
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
EXHAUST GASES
EXPERIMENTAL DATA
FLUIDS
GASEOUS WASTES
GASES
HYDROCARBONS
INFORMATION
LOS ANGELES
NORTH AMERICA
NUMERICAL DATA
ORGANIC COMPOUNDS
POLLUTION
POLLUTION CONTROL
USA
VEHICLES
WASTES
WESTERN REGION