Use of Tracer Elements for Estimating Community Exposure to Marcellus Shale Development Operations.

ABSTRACT: Since 2009, unconventional natural gas development (UNGD) has significantly increased in Appalachia's Marcellus Shale formation. Elevations of fine particulate matter <2.5 µm (PM2.5), have been documented in areas surrounding drilling operations during well stimulation. Furthermore, many communities are experiencing increased industrial activities and probable UNGD air pollutant exposures. Recent studies have associated UNGD emissions with health effects based on distances from well pads. In this study, PM2.5 filter samples were collected on an active gas well pad in Morgantown, West Virginia, and three locations downwind during hydraulic stimulation. Fine particulate samples were analyzed for major and trace elements. An experimental source identification model was developed to determine

SUBMITTER: Nye M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7143288 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature