1. Airborne Particulate Sampling using Direct Reading Instruments around Frac Sand Facilities
Bloomer, WI
Jacob Kentnich and Ella Keenan| Environmental Public Health
Introduction
Differences in PM2.5 by Location
The goal of our research is to identify any possible acute or chronic health outcomes from the inhalation of frac sand particulates. There are currently 135 sites in the state of Wisconsin collectively mining 30 million tons of sand per year.
The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) measures ambient air quality daily over a 24hr period. These DNR measurements are used in our research as a baseline in order to determine if the air quality is impacted by the mining of frac sand. In general, we found a difference in PM2.5 when comparing the air quality around the Bloomer mine with the air quality of Eau Claire County.
signifies the EPA’s annual standard of 12µg/m³
Purpose
We study particulate matter that is of 2.5 microns of size (PM2.5) because these microscopic particles embed themselves deep in the lung tissue. Frac sand, also known as silica sand, is a known human carcinogen which can lead to lung cancer and silicosis. We use a direct reading instrument, the DustTrak II, to monitor the ambient air quality of communities that are susceptible to frac sand dust.
Results
DustTrak II
Comparisons are made with the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) database on daily air quality to determine if the quality of air is of difference around frac sand facilities. On average, PM2.5 should not exceed a level of 12 micrograms per cubic meter. Our average of 55 samples of PM2.5 readings was micrograms per cubic meter with a standard deviation of (range 1-63).
The DustTrak II is a direct reading instrument that monitors PM2.5. Every time we go into the field, we calibrate the instrument to a specific flow rate (3L/min). The flow rate is the amount of air that moves through the machine in a given amount of time. Before sampling, the DustTrak II is zero calibrated to ensure an accurate measurement.
Fine granules of silica sand
Field Work Methods
Every 6 days, we use the DustTrak II to sample air near the frac sand mine in Bloomer, WI. This cycle is consistent with the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) 6-day sampling schedule.
DustTrak II air sampling machine
Frac sand being collected into mounds
Superior Sands mine in Bloomer, WI
Map of Wisconsin Frac Sand Facilities