On November 7, Nankai University’s Urban Traffic Pollution Prevention Research Center successfully held an academic seminar titled Studies of Airborne Ultrafine Particles in Polluted Atmospheres. The center invited Professor Roy M. Harrison, a renowned environmental scientist from the University of Birmingham, UK, an expert in air pollution, and a Fellow of the Royal Society. With over 67,000 citations and an h-index of 128 on Google Scholar, Professor Harrison provided invaluable insights and perspectives for attendees.
Professor Harrison's presentation focused on the potential health risks of ultrafine particles (UFPs). With diameters smaller than 100 nanometers, UFPs, known as the “invisible threat,” can penetrate deep into the respiratory system and even enter the bloodstream. He analyzed the sources, formation mechanisms, and dispersion pathways of UFPs in urban traffic environments, particularly examining the interplay between vehicle emissions and industrial discharges on UFP concentrations.
Following the presentation, Professor Harrison engaged in a Q&A session, patiently addressing questions and sharing air pollution control experiences from the UK and other countries. The discussions also covered the translation of research findings into policy recommendations and the long-term health impacts of UFPs.
This seminar deepened participants' understanding of ultrafine particles and provided new directions for future research. Attendees expressed that the event not only introduced advanced research methods but also inspired enthusiasm for pollution control efforts. Nankai University's Urban Traffic Pollution Prevention Research Center remains committed to this field, aiming to contribute to urban air quality improvement.
