Argonne science is making a difference in the fight against COVID-19. Scientists created a simulation tool that enables them to predict how the virus will spread. A research team developed an anti-viral N95 mask that can be cleaned and reused. In addition, more than a decade of Argonne research on other viruses played a foundational role in the development of COVID-19 vaccines.

Although much has been discovered, much remains unknown including understanding the behavior of COVID-19 viral particles in our environment. Since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic, the public has asked questions and sought guidance on how to live in a world with COVID-19. Argonne scientists have joined the global scientific community to find answers to those questions.

Scientists in Argonne’s Environmental Science Division, in collaboration with six other national labs, are engaged in critical research examining how COVID-19 viral particles behave in air and water and will share some initial findings with our virtual audience.

Argonne’s viral transport and fate team is recreating true-to-life scenarios using modeling systems to examine these key questions:

• What is the risk for infection in a typical classroom with air conditioning and ventilation?
• Is there an optimal seating arrangement on a school bus or public transit to minimize infection?
• What are the risks in multiple occupancy office spaces, and more?

Argonne’s hydrologic team is simulating the movement, distribution, travel time, and survival time of the virus in water using modeling systems to examine these key questions:

• What factors control virus viability and transport in a water environment?
• How can we predict its behavior in sewers, wastewater, urban waterways, and groundwater?

Understanding the behavior of COVID-19 in our environment will provide critical insight into virus transmission to prevent widespread community outbreaks. This analysis will be of particular importance to local and state governments as they deploy resources and develop resurgence plans.

Special Guests

• Cristina Negri, Director, Environmental Science Division (Moderator)
• V. Rao Kotamarthi, Chief Scientist/Department Head, Atmospheric Science and Climate Research
• Eugene Yan, Principal Scientist/Department Head, Hydrology, Remediation, and Risk-Based Restoration Department

Registration is requested. You will receive login instructions via email the day before the event and in a reminder email shortly before the event starts.