# Collaborative Research: FEC: Optical Properties of Mineral Dust Aerosols: Building Capacity for Use-Inspired Applications Through Experimental and Theoretical Investigations

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · University of Oklahoma Norman Campus (OK) · $878,192

## Abstract

Mineral dust aerosols are small particles commonly suspended in the Earth’s atmosphere with important implications for weather and climate, ecosystems, human health and visibility, and optical communication and remote sensing systems. Unfortunately, very little is known about the optical properties of mineral dust and how they relate to dust sources and properties. This understanding is necessary to comprehend the roles and impacts of mineral dust aerosols on human and natural systems. This project aims to build capacity toward use-inspired research by gaining such understanding through integrated experimental and theoretical investigations of mineral dust optical properties. This will be of the essence for quantifying mineral dust on global and regional scales, mineral dust effects on weather and climate, and their impacts on human and natural systems. The project will build a three-state collaborative team to develop and demonstrate capacity for use-inspired research by advancing knowledge on the optical properties of mineral dust aerosols in the atmosphere. Use-inspired applications include improving optical remote and in situ sensing of mineral dust aerosols. Additional applications include quantifying mineral dust impacts on human and machine visibility for safe operation of cars and airplanes and on national defense (e.g., optical range finders and target designators) and effects of inhaled mineral dust on human health (e.g., respiratory and pulmonary disease and mortal

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2521433
- **Awardee organization:** University of Oklahoma Norman Campus (OK)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** EVTSTTLCEWS5
- **PI:** Connor J Flynn
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** Translational Research, EXP PROG TO STIM COMP RES
- **Estimated total:** $878,192
- **Funds obligated:** $878,192
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 08/15/2025 → 07/31/2029

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2521433

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2521433, Collaborative Research: FEC: Optical Properties of Mineral Dust Aerosols: Building Capacity for Use-Inspired Applications Through Experimental and Theoretical Investigations. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-08 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2521433. Licensed CC0.

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