Exposure to particulate matter (PM) has been associated with cardiovascular and respiratory diseases and decrease in life expectancy with molecular pollutants as the causative agents. A newly identified class of pollutants, however, dubbed environmentally persistent free radicals (EPFRs) that are present in PM of combustion-origin contribute to the adverse health effects of PM as well. The interaction of organic materials with metals during combustion and thermal processes produces EPFRs which act as precursors for the formation of some molecular pollutants such as dioxins and furans. Unlike previously identified atmospheric free radicals which only exist for a fraction of a second, EPFRs persist for hours, days, months, and even years depending on the stabilizing metal. EPFRs cause oxidative stress through the formation of reactive oxygen species leading to cardiopulmonary dysfunctions in animal model. Metal-containing engineered nanomaterials incorporated in many consumer products may also produce EPFRs during end-of-life treatment when some of the wastes are incinerated.

Environmentally persistent free radicals: Occurrence, formation, persistence, and implications

247th National Meeting (2014)

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