Paul Lioy, the scientist who analyzed dust from the fallen World Trade Center and its potential danger to first responders, died after suddenly collapsing at Newark Liberty International Airport. He was 68.
After 9/11, Lioy raced down to lower Manhattan from his home in Cranford, N.J., and collected bags of the dust. He discovered that the thick gray dust contained a dangerous mix of elements like wood, plastic, glass, asbestos and concrete.
In 2010, he published his findings in a book “Dust: The Inside Story of Its Role in the September 11th Aftermath.”
His cause of death is unclear. The autopsy report has not been completed, his son, Jason, told the Daily News.
“He was dedicated to his profession and committed to the research that he did,” Jason said after the Monday funeral. “He was very proud of the 9/11 research.”
