Articles | Volume 13, issue 13
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 13, 6421–6428, 2013
https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-13-6421-2013
© Author(s) 2013. This work is distributed under
the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 License.
the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 License.
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 13, 6421–6428, 2013
https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-13-6421-2013
© Author(s) 2013. This work is distributed under
the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 License.
the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 License.
Research article
08 Jul 2013
Research article
| 08 Jul 2013
222Rn-calibrated mercury fluxes from terrestrial surface of southern Africa
F. Slemr et al.
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Danilo Custódio, Katrine Aspmo Pfaffhuber, T. Gerard Spain, Fidel F. Pankratov, Iana Strigunova, Koketso Molepo, Henrik Skov, Johannes Bieser, and Ralf Ebinghaus
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 22, 3827–3840, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-3827-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-3827-2022, 2022
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As a poison in the air that we breathe and the food that we eat, mercury is a human health concern for society as a whole. In that regard, this work deals with monitoring and modelling mercury in the environment, improving wherewithal, identifying the strength of the different components at play, and interpreting information to support the efforts that seek to safeguard public health.
Johannes Bieser, Hélène Angot, Franz Slemr, and Lynwill Martin
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 20, 10427–10439, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-20-10427-2020, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-20-10427-2020, 2020
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We use numerical models to determine the origin of air masses measured for elemental gaseous mercury (GEM) at Cape Point (CPT), South Africa. Our analysis is based on 10 years of hourly GEM measurements at CPT from 2007 to 2016. Based on GEM concentration and the origin of the air mass, we identify source and sink regions at CPT. We find, that the warm Agulhas Current to the south-east is the major Hg source and the continent the major sink.
Franz Slemr, Lynwill Martin, Casper Labuschagne, Thumeka Mkololo, Hélène Angot, Olivier Magand, Aurélien Dommergue, Philippe Garat, Michel Ramonet, and Johannes Bieser
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 20, 7683–7692, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-20-7683-2020, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-20-7683-2020, 2020
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Monitoring of atmospheric mercury (Hg) concentrations is an important part of the effectiveness evaluation of the Minamata Convention on Hg. Hg concentrations in 2012–2017 at Cape Point, South Africa, and at Amsterdam Island in the remote Indian Ocean are comparable, and no trend or a slightly downward trend was observed at both stations. Over the 2007–2017 period an upward trend was observed at CPT which was driven mainly by the 2007–2014 data. The trend and its change are discussed.
Franz Slemr, Andreas Weigelt, Ralf Ebinghaus, Johannes Bieser, Carl A. M. Brenninkmeijer, Armin Rauthe-Schöch, Markus Hermann, Bengt G. Martinsson, Peter van Velthoven, Harald Bönisch, Marco Neumaier, Andreas Zahn, and Helmut Ziereis
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 18, 12329–12343, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-18-12329-2018, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-18-12329-2018, 2018
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Total and elemental mercury were measured in the upper troposphere and lower stratosphere onboard a passenger aircraft. Their concentrations in the upper troposphere were comparable implying low concentrations of oxidized mercury in this region. Large scale seasonally dependent influence of emissions from biomass burning was also observed. Their distributions in the lower stratosphere implies a long stratospheric lifetime, which precludes significant mercury oxidation by ozone.
Johannes Bieser, Franz Slemr, Jesse Ambrose, Carl Brenninkmeijer, Steve Brooks, Ashu Dastoor, Francesco DeSimone, Ralf Ebinghaus, Christian N. Gencarelli, Beate Geyer, Lynne E. Gratz, Ian M. Hedgecock, Daniel Jaffe, Paul Kelley, Che-Jen Lin, Lyatt Jaegle, Volker Matthias, Andrei Ryjkov, Noelle E. Selin, Shaojie Song, Oleg Travnikov, Andreas Weigelt, Winston Luke, Xinrong Ren, Andreas Zahn, Xin Yang, Yun Zhu, and Nicola Pirrone
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 17, 6925–6955, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-17-6925-2017, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-17-6925-2017, 2017
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We conducted a multi model study to investigate our ability to reproduce the vertical distribution of mercury in the atmosphere. For this, we used observational data from over 40 aircraft flights in EU and US. We compared observations to the results of seven chemistry transport models and found that the models are able to reproduce vertical gradients of total and elemental Hg. Finally, we found that different chemical reactions seem responsible for the oxidation of Hg depending on altitude.
Hannah M. Horowitz, Daniel J. Jacob, Yanxu Zhang, Theodore S. Dibble, Franz Slemr, Helen M. Amos, Johan A. Schmidt, Elizabeth S. Corbitt, Eloïse A. Marais, and Elsie M. Sunderland
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 17, 6353–6371, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-17-6353-2017, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-17-6353-2017, 2017
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Mercury is a toxic, global pollutant released to the air from human activities like coal burning. Chemical reactions in air determine how far mercury is transported before it is deposited to the environment, where it may be converted to a form that accumulates in fish. We use a 3-D atmospheric model to evaluate a new set of chemical reactions and its effects on mercury deposition. We find it is consistent with observations and leads to increased deposition to oceans, especially in the tropics.
Lynwill G. Martin, Casper Labuschagne, Ernst-Günther Brunke, Andreas Weigelt, Ralf Ebinghaus, and Franz Slemr
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 17, 2393–2399, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-17-2393-2017, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-17-2393-2017, 2017
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Currently the Cape Point GAW GEM record is a very sought-after data record for international modelers and scientist alike, as the data set of 20 years represents the longest record in the Southern Hemisphere (SH). CPT was the only monitoring site on the African continent and one of eight GMOS ground-based monitoring sites located in the SH. The increasing Hg trend observed at CPT is of global importance as treaties such as the Minamata Convention on Mercury is there to combat Hg pollution.
Andreas Weigelt, Franz Slemr, Ralf Ebinghaus, Nicola Pirrone, Johannes Bieser, Jan Bödewadt, Giulio Esposito, and Peter F. J. van Velthoven
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 16, 13653–13668, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-16-13653-2016, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-16-13653-2016, 2016
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Hg ∕ SO2, Hg ∕ CO, and NOx ∕ SO2 emission ratios (ERs) in the plume of the coal-fired power plant (CFPP), Lippendorf, near Leipzig in Germany, were determined in August 2013. GOM fraction of mercury emissions was also assessed. Measured Hg ∕ SO2 and Hg ∕ CO ERs were consistent with the ratios calculated from annual emissions in 2013 reported by the CFPP operator. The NOx ∕ SO2 ER was somewhat lower. GOM fractions of ~ 40 % of CFPP mercury emissions in current emission inventories are overestimated.
Franz Slemr, Andreas Weigelt, Ralf Ebinghaus, Hans H. Kock, Jan Bödewadt, Carl A. M. Brenninkmeijer, Armin Rauthe-Schöch, Stefan Weber, Markus Hermann, Julia Becker, Andreas Zahn, and Bengt Martinsson
Atmos. Meas. Tech., 9, 2291–2302, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-9-2291-2016, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-9-2291-2016, 2016
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The goal of CARIBIC (Civil Aircraft for the Regular Investigation of the atmosphere Based on an Instrumented Container) is to carry out regular and detailed observations of atmospheric chemistry at 9–12 km altitude. Mercury has been measured since May 2005 during intercontinental flights between Europe and South and North America, Africa, and Asia. Here we describe the instrument modifications, the post-flight processing of the raw instrument signal, and the fractionation experiments.
Andreas Weigelt, Ralf Ebinghaus, Nicola Pirrone, Johannes Bieser, Jan Bödewadt, Giulio Esposito, Franz Slemr, Peter F. J. van Velthoven, Andreas Zahn, and Helmut Ziereis
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 16, 4135–4146, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-16-4135-2016, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-16-4135-2016, 2016
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We show the first mercury profile measurements over Europe since 1996. Besides gaseous elemental mercury (GEM) and total gaseous mercury (TGM), the gases CO, SO2, NOx, and O3 were measured from aboard a research aircraft over four European locations. Compared to the boundary layer, the concentration of GEM and TGM in the free troposphere was 10–30% lower. Inside the individual layers no vertical gradient was apparent. Combined with CARIBIC data, a unique profile from 0.4 to 10.5 km is provided.
A. D. Venter, J. P. Beukes, P. G. van Zyl, E.-G. Brunke, C. Labuschagne, F. Slemr, R. Ebinghaus, and H. Kock
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 15, 10271–10280, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-15-10271-2015, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-15-10271-2015, 2015
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Statistical techniques applied to continuous high-resolution Hg data and back-trajectory analyses showed lower GEM concentrations originating from the sparsely populated semi-arid interior of SA and the marine environment, whereas higher GEM concentrations coincided with trade routes and industrial activities along the coast. Multi-linear regression indicated the relation of GEM with other atmospheric parameters. Measured and MLR data confirm a decline in GEM concentrations at CPT GAW station.
S. Song, N. E. Selin, A. L. Soerensen, H. Angot, R. Artz, S. Brooks, E.-G. Brunke, G. Conley, A. Dommergue, R. Ebinghaus, T. M. Holsen, D. A. Jaffe, S. Kang, P. Kelley, W. T. Luke, O. Magand, K. Marumoto, K. A. Pfaffhuber, X. Ren, G.-R. Sheu, F. Slemr, T. Warneke, A. Weigelt, P. Weiss-Penzias, D. C. Wip, and Q. Zhang
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 15, 7103–7125, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-15-7103-2015, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-15-7103-2015, 2015
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A better knowledge of mercury (Hg) emission fluxes into the global atmosphere is important for assessing its human health impacts and evaluating the effectiveness of corresponding policy actions. We for the first time apply a top-down approach at a global scale to quantitatively estimate present-day mercury emission sources as well as key parameters in a chemical transport model, in order to better constrain the global biogeochemical cycle of mercury.
F. Slemr, H. Angot, A. Dommergue, O. Magand, M. Barret, A. Weigelt, R. Ebinghaus, E.-G. Brunke, K. A. Pfaffhuber, G. Edwards, D. Howard, J. Powell, M. Keywood, and F. Wang
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 15, 3125–3133, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-15-3125-2015, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-15-3125-2015, 2015
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• Longer-term mercury measurement in the Southern Hemisphere is compared.
• Mercury, in terms of monthly and annual medians and averages, is more evenly distributed than hitherto believed.
• Consequently, trends observed at one or a few sites are likely to be representative of the whole hemisphere, and smaller trends can be detected in shorter time periods.
• We report a change in the trend sign at Cape Point from decreasing mercury concentrations in 1996-2004 to increasing ones since 2007.
Danilo Custódio, Katrine Aspmo Pfaffhuber, T. Gerard Spain, Fidel F. Pankratov, Iana Strigunova, Koketso Molepo, Henrik Skov, Johannes Bieser, and Ralf Ebinghaus
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 22, 3827–3840, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-3827-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-3827-2022, 2022
Short summary
Short summary
As a poison in the air that we breathe and the food that we eat, mercury is a human health concern for society as a whole. In that regard, this work deals with monitoring and modelling mercury in the environment, improving wherewithal, identifying the strength of the different components at play, and interpreting information to support the efforts that seek to safeguard public health.
Johannes Bieser, Hélène Angot, Franz Slemr, and Lynwill Martin
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 20, 10427–10439, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-20-10427-2020, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-20-10427-2020, 2020
Short summary
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We use numerical models to determine the origin of air masses measured for elemental gaseous mercury (GEM) at Cape Point (CPT), South Africa. Our analysis is based on 10 years of hourly GEM measurements at CPT from 2007 to 2016. Based on GEM concentration and the origin of the air mass, we identify source and sink regions at CPT. We find, that the warm Agulhas Current to the south-east is the major Hg source and the continent the major sink.
Paolo Laj, Alessandro Bigi, Clémence Rose, Elisabeth Andrews, Cathrine Lund Myhre, Martine Collaud Coen, Yong Lin, Alfred Wiedensohler, Michael Schulz, John A. Ogren, Markus Fiebig, Jonas Gliß, Augustin Mortier, Marco Pandolfi, Tuukka Petäja, Sang-Woo Kim, Wenche Aas, Jean-Philippe Putaud, Olga Mayol-Bracero, Melita Keywood, Lorenzo Labrador, Pasi Aalto, Erik Ahlberg, Lucas Alados Arboledas, Andrés Alastuey, Marcos Andrade, Begoña Artíñano, Stina Ausmeel, Todor Arsov, Eija Asmi, John Backman, Urs Baltensperger, Susanne Bastian, Olaf Bath, Johan Paul Beukes, Benjamin T. Brem, Nicolas Bukowiecki, Sébastien Conil, Cedric Couret, Derek Day, Wan Dayantolis, Anna Degorska, Konstantinos Eleftheriadis, Prodromos Fetfatzis, Olivier Favez, Harald Flentje, Maria I. Gini, Asta Gregorič, Martin Gysel-Beer, A. Gannet Hallar, Jenny Hand, Andras Hoffer, Christoph Hueglin, Rakesh K. Hooda, Antti Hyvärinen, Ivo Kalapov, Nikos Kalivitis, Anne Kasper-Giebl, Jeong Eun Kim, Giorgos Kouvarakis, Irena Kranjc, Radovan Krejci, Markku Kulmala, Casper Labuschagne, Hae-Jung Lee, Heikki Lihavainen, Neng-Huei Lin, Gunter Löschau, Krista Luoma, Angela Marinoni, Sebastiao Martins Dos Santos, Frank Meinhardt, Maik Merkel, Jean-Marc Metzger, Nikolaos Mihalopoulos, Nhat Anh Nguyen, Jakub Ondracek, Noemi Pérez, Maria Rita Perrone, Jean-Eudes Petit, David Picard, Jean-Marc Pichon, Veronique Pont, Natalia Prats, Anthony Prenni, Fabienne Reisen, Salvatore Romano, Karine Sellegri, Sangeeta Sharma, Gerhard Schauer, Patrick Sheridan, James Patrick Sherman, Maik Schütze, Andreas Schwerin, Ralf Sohmer, Mar Sorribas, Martin Steinbacher, Junying Sun, Gloria Titos, Barbara Toczko, Thomas Tuch, Pierre Tulet, Peter Tunved, Ville Vakkari, Fernando Velarde, Patricio Velasquez, Paolo Villani, Sterios Vratolis, Sheng-Hsiang Wang, Kay Weinhold, Rolf Weller, Margarita Yela, Jesus Yus-Diez, Vladimir Zdimal, Paul Zieger, and Nadezda Zikova
Atmos. Meas. Tech., 13, 4353–4392, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-13-4353-2020, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-13-4353-2020, 2020
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The paper establishes the fiducial reference of the GAW aerosol network providing the fully characterized value chain to the provision of four climate-relevant aerosol properties from ground-based sites. Data from almost 90 stations worldwide are reported for a reference year, 2017, providing a unique and very robust view of the variability of these variables worldwide. Current gaps in the GAW network are analysed and requirements for the Global Climate Monitoring System are proposed.
Martine Collaud Coen, Elisabeth Andrews, Andrés Alastuey, Todor Petkov Arsov, John Backman, Benjamin T. Brem, Nicolas Bukowiecki, Cédric Couret, Konstantinos Eleftheriadis, Harald Flentje, Markus Fiebig, Martin Gysel-Beer, Jenny L. Hand, András Hoffer, Rakesh Hooda, Christoph Hueglin, Warren Joubert, Melita Keywood, Jeong Eun Kim, Sang-Woo Kim, Casper Labuschagne, Neng-Huei Lin, Yong Lin, Cathrine Lund Myhre, Krista Luoma, Hassan Lyamani, Angela Marinoni, Olga L. Mayol-Bracero, Nikos Mihalopoulos, Marco Pandolfi, Natalia Prats, Anthony J. Prenni, Jean-Philippe Putaud, Ludwig Ries, Fabienne Reisen, Karine Sellegri, Sangeeta Sharma, Patrick Sheridan, James Patrick Sherman, Junying Sun, Gloria Titos, Elvis Torres, Thomas Tuch, Rolf Weller, Alfred Wiedensohler, Paul Zieger, and Paolo Laj
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 20, 8867–8908, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-20-8867-2020, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-20-8867-2020, 2020
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Long-term trends of aerosol radiative properties (52 stations) prove that aerosol load has significantly decreased over the last 20 years. Scattering trends are negative in Europe (EU) and North America (NA), not ss in Asia, and show a mix of positive and negative trends at polar stations. Absorption has mainly negative trends. The single scattering albedo has positive trends in Asia and eastern EU and negative in western EU and NA, leading to a global positive median trend of 0.02 % per year.
Franz Slemr, Lynwill Martin, Casper Labuschagne, Thumeka Mkololo, Hélène Angot, Olivier Magand, Aurélien Dommergue, Philippe Garat, Michel Ramonet, and Johannes Bieser
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 20, 7683–7692, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-20-7683-2020, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-20-7683-2020, 2020
Short summary
Short summary
Monitoring of atmospheric mercury (Hg) concentrations is an important part of the effectiveness evaluation of the Minamata Convention on Hg. Hg concentrations in 2012–2017 at Cape Point, South Africa, and at Amsterdam Island in the remote Indian Ocean are comparable, and no trend or a slightly downward trend was observed at both stations. Over the 2007–2017 period an upward trend was observed at CPT which was driven mainly by the 2007–2014 data. The trend and its change are discussed.
Franz Slemr, Andreas Weigelt, Ralf Ebinghaus, Johannes Bieser, Carl A. M. Brenninkmeijer, Armin Rauthe-Schöch, Markus Hermann, Bengt G. Martinsson, Peter van Velthoven, Harald Bönisch, Marco Neumaier, Andreas Zahn, and Helmut Ziereis
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 18, 12329–12343, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-18-12329-2018, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-18-12329-2018, 2018
Short summary
Short summary
Total and elemental mercury were measured in the upper troposphere and lower stratosphere onboard a passenger aircraft. Their concentrations in the upper troposphere were comparable implying low concentrations of oxidized mercury in this region. Large scale seasonally dependent influence of emissions from biomass burning was also observed. Their distributions in the lower stratosphere implies a long stratospheric lifetime, which precludes significant mercury oxidation by ozone.
Brett Kuyper, Carl J. Palmer, Casper Labuschagne, and Chris J. C. Reason
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 18, 5785–5797, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-18-5785-2018, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-18-5785-2018, 2018
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Atmospheric measurements of a single biogenic compound, bromoform, released from phytoplankton and kelp were made at Cape Point, South Africa. These measurements are the first long-term, fixed-point measurements in southern Africa. This compound is the largest transport of bromine to the atmosphere, and this plays an important role in climate change. The short time series presented here shows large quantities of bromoform in the atmosphere.
Lauren Schmeisser, Elisabeth Andrews, John A. Ogren, Patrick Sheridan, Anne Jefferson, Sangeeta Sharma, Jeong Eun Kim, James P. Sherman, Mar Sorribas, Ivo Kalapov, Todor Arsov, Christo Angelov, Olga L. Mayol-Bracero, Casper Labuschagne, Sang-Woo Kim, András Hoffer, Neng-Huei Lin, Hao-Ping Chia, Michael Bergin, Junying Sun, Peng Liu, and Hao Wu
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 17, 12097–12120, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-17-12097-2017, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-17-12097-2017, 2017
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Three methods are used to classify aerosol type from aerosol optical properties measured in situ at 24 surface sites. Classification methods work best at sites with stable, homogenous aerosol at particularly polluted and dust-prone continental and marine sites. Classification methods are poor at remote marine and Arctic sites. Using these methods to extrapolate aerosol type from optical properties can help determine aerosol radiative forcing and improve aerosol satellite retrieval algorithms.
Johannes Bieser, Franz Slemr, Jesse Ambrose, Carl Brenninkmeijer, Steve Brooks, Ashu Dastoor, Francesco DeSimone, Ralf Ebinghaus, Christian N. Gencarelli, Beate Geyer, Lynne E. Gratz, Ian M. Hedgecock, Daniel Jaffe, Paul Kelley, Che-Jen Lin, Lyatt Jaegle, Volker Matthias, Andrei Ryjkov, Noelle E. Selin, Shaojie Song, Oleg Travnikov, Andreas Weigelt, Winston Luke, Xinrong Ren, Andreas Zahn, Xin Yang, Yun Zhu, and Nicola Pirrone
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 17, 6925–6955, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-17-6925-2017, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-17-6925-2017, 2017
Short summary
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We conducted a multi model study to investigate our ability to reproduce the vertical distribution of mercury in the atmosphere. For this, we used observational data from over 40 aircraft flights in EU and US. We compared observations to the results of seven chemistry transport models and found that the models are able to reproduce vertical gradients of total and elemental Hg. Finally, we found that different chemical reactions seem responsible for the oxidation of Hg depending on altitude.
Hannah M. Horowitz, Daniel J. Jacob, Yanxu Zhang, Theodore S. Dibble, Franz Slemr, Helen M. Amos, Johan A. Schmidt, Elizabeth S. Corbitt, Eloïse A. Marais, and Elsie M. Sunderland
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 17, 6353–6371, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-17-6353-2017, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-17-6353-2017, 2017
Short summary
Short summary
Mercury is a toxic, global pollutant released to the air from human activities like coal burning. Chemical reactions in air determine how far mercury is transported before it is deposited to the environment, where it may be converted to a form that accumulates in fish. We use a 3-D atmospheric model to evaluate a new set of chemical reactions and its effects on mercury deposition. We find it is consistent with observations and leads to increased deposition to oceans, especially in the tropics.
Francesca Sprovieri, Nicola Pirrone, Mariantonia Bencardino, Francesco D'Amore, Helene Angot, Carlo Barbante, Ernst-Günther Brunke, Flor Arcega-Cabrera, Warren Cairns, Sara Comero, María del Carmen Diéguez, Aurélien Dommergue, Ralf Ebinghaus, Xin Bin Feng, Xuewu Fu, Patricia Elizabeth Garcia, Bernd Manfred Gawlik, Ulla Hageström, Katarina Hansson, Milena Horvat, Jože Kotnik, Casper Labuschagne, Olivier Magand, Lynwill Martin, Nikolay Mashyanov, Thumeka Mkololo, John Munthe, Vladimir Obolkin, Martha Ramirez Islas, Fabrizio Sena, Vernon Somerset, Pia Spandow, Massimiliano Vardè, Chavon Walters, Ingvar Wängberg, Andreas Weigelt, Xu Yang, and Hui Zhang
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 17, 2689–2708, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-17-2689-2017, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-17-2689-2017, 2017
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The results on total mercury (THg) wet deposition flux obtained within the GMOS network have been presented and discussed to understand the atmospheric Hg cycling and its seasonal depositional patterns over the 2011–2015 period. The data set provides new insight into baseline concentrations of THg concentrations in precipitation particularly in regions where wet deposition and atmospheric Hg species were not investigated before, opening the way for additional measurements and modeling studies.
Lynwill G. Martin, Casper Labuschagne, Ernst-Günther Brunke, Andreas Weigelt, Ralf Ebinghaus, and Franz Slemr
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 17, 2393–2399, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-17-2393-2017, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-17-2393-2017, 2017
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Currently the Cape Point GAW GEM record is a very sought-after data record for international modelers and scientist alike, as the data set of 20 years represents the longest record in the Southern Hemisphere (SH). CPT was the only monitoring site on the African continent and one of eight GMOS ground-based monitoring sites located in the SH. The increasing Hg trend observed at CPT is of global importance as treaties such as the Minamata Convention on Mercury is there to combat Hg pollution.
Andreas Weigelt, Franz Slemr, Ralf Ebinghaus, Nicola Pirrone, Johannes Bieser, Jan Bödewadt, Giulio Esposito, and Peter F. J. van Velthoven
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 16, 13653–13668, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-16-13653-2016, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-16-13653-2016, 2016
Short summary
Short summary
Hg ∕ SO2, Hg ∕ CO, and NOx ∕ SO2 emission ratios (ERs) in the plume of the coal-fired power plant (CFPP), Lippendorf, near Leipzig in Germany, were determined in August 2013. GOM fraction of mercury emissions was also assessed. Measured Hg ∕ SO2 and Hg ∕ CO ERs were consistent with the ratios calculated from annual emissions in 2013 reported by the CFPP operator. The NOx ∕ SO2 ER was somewhat lower. GOM fractions of ~ 40 % of CFPP mercury emissions in current emission inventories are overestimated.
Francesca Sprovieri, Nicola Pirrone, Mariantonia Bencardino, Francesco D'Amore, Francesco Carbone, Sergio Cinnirella, Valentino Mannarino, Matthew Landis, Ralf Ebinghaus, Andreas Weigelt, Ernst-Günther Brunke, Casper Labuschagne, Lynwill Martin, John Munthe, Ingvar Wängberg, Paulo Artaxo, Fernando Morais, Henrique de Melo Jorge Barbosa, Joel Brito, Warren Cairns, Carlo Barbante, María del Carmen Diéguez, Patricia Elizabeth Garcia, Aurélien Dommergue, Helene Angot, Olivier Magand, Henrik Skov, Milena Horvat, Jože Kotnik, Katie Alana Read, Luis Mendes Neves, Bernd Manfred Gawlik, Fabrizio Sena, Nikolay Mashyanov, Vladimir Obolkin, Dennis Wip, Xin Bin Feng, Hui Zhang, Xuewu Fu, Ramesh Ramachandran, Daniel Cossa, Joël Knoery, Nicolas Marusczak, Michelle Nerentorp, and Claus Norstrom
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 16, 11915–11935, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-16-11915-2016, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-16-11915-2016, 2016
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This work presents atmospheric Hg concentrations recorded within the GMOS global network analyzing Hg measurement results in terms of temporal trends, seasonality and comparability within the network. The over-arching benefit of this coordinated Hg monitoring network would clearly be the production of high-quality measurement datasets on a global scale useful in developing and validating models on different spatial and temporal scales.
Franz Slemr, Andreas Weigelt, Ralf Ebinghaus, Hans H. Kock, Jan Bödewadt, Carl A. M. Brenninkmeijer, Armin Rauthe-Schöch, Stefan Weber, Markus Hermann, Julia Becker, Andreas Zahn, and Bengt Martinsson
Atmos. Meas. Tech., 9, 2291–2302, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-9-2291-2016, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-9-2291-2016, 2016
Short summary
Short summary
The goal of CARIBIC (Civil Aircraft for the Regular Investigation of the atmosphere Based on an Instrumented Container) is to carry out regular and detailed observations of atmospheric chemistry at 9–12 km altitude. Mercury has been measured since May 2005 during intercontinental flights between Europe and South and North America, Africa, and Asia. Here we describe the instrument modifications, the post-flight processing of the raw instrument signal, and the fractionation experiments.
Andreas Weigelt, Ralf Ebinghaus, Nicola Pirrone, Johannes Bieser, Jan Bödewadt, Giulio Esposito, Franz Slemr, Peter F. J. van Velthoven, Andreas Zahn, and Helmut Ziereis
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 16, 4135–4146, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-16-4135-2016, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-16-4135-2016, 2016
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We show the first mercury profile measurements over Europe since 1996. Besides gaseous elemental mercury (GEM) and total gaseous mercury (TGM), the gases CO, SO2, NOx, and O3 were measured from aboard a research aircraft over four European locations. Compared to the boundary layer, the concentration of GEM and TGM in the free troposphere was 10–30% lower. Inside the individual layers no vertical gradient was apparent. Combined with CARIBIC data, a unique profile from 0.4 to 10.5 km is provided.
A. Wagner, A.-M. Blechschmidt, I. Bouarar, E.-G. Brunke, C. Clerbaux, M. Cupeiro, P. Cristofanelli, H. Eskes, J. Flemming, H. Flentje, M. George, S. Gilge, A. Hilboll, A. Inness, J. Kapsomenakis, A. Richter, L. Ries, W. Spangl, O. Stein, R. Weller, and C. Zerefos
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 15, 14005–14030, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-15-14005-2015, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-15-14005-2015, 2015
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The Monitoring Atmospheric Composition and Climate project (MACC) operationally produces global analyses and forecasts of reactive gases and aerosol fields. We have investigated the ability of the model to simulate concentrations of reactive gases (carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide and ozone) between 2009 and 2012. The model reproduced reactive gas concentrations with consistent quality, however, with a seasonally dependent bias compared to surface and satellite observations.
A. D. Venter, J. P. Beukes, P. G. van Zyl, E.-G. Brunke, C. Labuschagne, F. Slemr, R. Ebinghaus, and H. Kock
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 15, 10271–10280, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-15-10271-2015, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-15-10271-2015, 2015
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Statistical techniques applied to continuous high-resolution Hg data and back-trajectory analyses showed lower GEM concentrations originating from the sparsely populated semi-arid interior of SA and the marine environment, whereas higher GEM concentrations coincided with trade routes and industrial activities along the coast. Multi-linear regression indicated the relation of GEM with other atmospheric parameters. Measured and MLR data confirm a decline in GEM concentrations at CPT GAW station.
S. Song, N. E. Selin, A. L. Soerensen, H. Angot, R. Artz, S. Brooks, E.-G. Brunke, G. Conley, A. Dommergue, R. Ebinghaus, T. M. Holsen, D. A. Jaffe, S. Kang, P. Kelley, W. T. Luke, O. Magand, K. Marumoto, K. A. Pfaffhuber, X. Ren, G.-R. Sheu, F. Slemr, T. Warneke, A. Weigelt, P. Weiss-Penzias, D. C. Wip, and Q. Zhang
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 15, 7103–7125, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-15-7103-2015, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-15-7103-2015, 2015
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A better knowledge of mercury (Hg) emission fluxes into the global atmosphere is important for assessing its human health impacts and evaluating the effectiveness of corresponding policy actions. We for the first time apply a top-down approach at a global scale to quantitatively estimate present-day mercury emission sources as well as key parameters in a chemical transport model, in order to better constrain the global biogeochemical cycle of mercury.
E. J. Morgan, J. V. Lavrič, T. Seifert, T. Chicoine, A. Day, J. Gomez, R. Logan, J. Sack, T. Shuuya, E. G. Uushona, K. Vincent, U. Schultz, E.-G. Brunke, C. Labuschagne, R. L. Thompson, S. Schmidt, A. C. Manning, and M. Heimann
Atmos. Meas. Tech., 8, 2233–2250, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-8-2233-2015, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-8-2233-2015, 2015
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We describe the analytical techniques used in the creation of a new background site for continuous measurements of greenhouse gases, carbon monoxide, and atmospheric oxygen in the Namib Desert. The measurement system is semi-automated and optimized for operation in a remote locale. Measurement uncertainties, gas handling, calibration schemes, drift corrections, and instrument performance are discussed.
F. Slemr, H. Angot, A. Dommergue, O. Magand, M. Barret, A. Weigelt, R. Ebinghaus, E.-G. Brunke, K. A. Pfaffhuber, G. Edwards, D. Howard, J. Powell, M. Keywood, and F. Wang
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 15, 3125–3133, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-15-3125-2015, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-15-3125-2015, 2015
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• Longer-term mercury measurement in the Southern Hemisphere is compared.
• Mercury, in terms of monthly and annual medians and averages, is more evenly distributed than hitherto believed.
• Consequently, trends observed at one or a few sites are likely to be representative of the whole hemisphere, and smaller trends can be detected in shorter time periods.
• We report a change in the trend sign at Cape Point from decreasing mercury concentrations in 1996-2004 to increasing ones since 2007.
H. F. Zhang, B. Z. Chen, I. T. van der Laan-Luijk, T. Machida, H. Matsueda, Y. Sawa, Y. Fukuyama, R. Langenfelds, M. van der Schoot, G. Xu, J. W. Yan, M. L. Cheng, L. X. Zhou, P. P. Tans, and W. Peters
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 14, 5807–5824, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-14-5807-2014, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-14-5807-2014, 2014
A. Steffen, J. Bottenheim, A. Cole, R. Ebinghaus, G. Lawson, and W. R. Leaitch
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 14, 2219–2231, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-14-2219-2014, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-14-2219-2014, 2014
B. D. Hall, A. Engel, J. Mühle, J. W. Elkins, F. Artuso, E. Atlas, M. Aydin, D. Blake, E.-G. Brunke, S. Chiavarini, P. J. Fraser, J. Happell, P. B. Krummel, I. Levin, M. Loewenstein, M. Maione, S. A. Montzka, S. O'Doherty, S. Reimann, G. Rhoderick, E. S. Saltzman, H. E. Scheel, L. P. Steele, M. K. Vollmer, R. F. Weiss, D. Worthy, and Y. Yokouchi
Atmos. Meas. Tech., 7, 469–490, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-7-469-2014, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-7-469-2014, 2014
A. Steffen, J. Bottenheim, A. Cole, T. A. Douglas, R. Ebinghaus, U. Friess, S. Netcheva, S. Nghiem, H. Sihler, and R. Staebler
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 13, 7007–7021, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-13-7007-2013, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-13-7007-2013, 2013
Related subject area
Subject: Gases | Research Activity: Field Measurements | Altitude Range: Troposphere | Science Focus: Chemistry (chemical composition and reactions)
Full latitudinal marine atmospheric measurements of iodine monoxide
Direct observations indicate photodegradable oxygenated volatile organic compounds (OVOCs) as larger contributors to radicals and ozone production in the atmosphere
Assessing vehicle fuel efficiency using a dense network of CO2 observations
Odds and ends of atmospheric mercury in Europe and over the North Atlantic Ocean: temporal trends of 25 years of measurements
Interpretation of NO3–N2O5 observation via steady state in high-aerosol air mass: the impact of equilibrium coefficient in ambient conditions
Global emissions of perfluorocyclobutane (PFC-318, c-C4F8) resulting from the use of hydrochlorofluorocarbon-22 (HCFC-22) feedstock to produce polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and related fluorochemicals
Atmospheric measurements at Mt. Tai – Part I: HONO formation and its role in the oxidizing capacity of the upper boundary layer
Urban inland wintertime N2O5 and ClNO2 influenced by snow-covered ground, air turbulence, and precipitation
First observation of mercury species on an important water vapor channel in the southeastern Tibetan Plateau
Swiss halocarbon emissions for 2019 to 2020 assessed from regional atmospheric observations
Measurement report: Long-term measurements of aerosol precursor concentrations in the Finnish subarctic boreal forest
The Fires, Asian, and Stratospheric Transport–Las Vegas Ozone Study (FAST-LVOS)
Measurement report: Long-term variations in surface NOx and SO2 mixing ratios from 2006 to 2016 at a background site in the Yangtze River Delta region, China
Atmospheric measurements at Mt. Tai – Part II: HONO budget and radical (ROx + NO3) chemistry in the lower boundary layer
Exploration of the atmospheric chemistry of nitrous acid in a coastal city of southeastern China: results from measurements across four seasons
Formaldehyde evolution in US wildfire plumes during the Fire Influence on Regional to Global Environments and Air Quality experiment (FIREX-AQ)
Measurement report: Photochemical production and loss rates of formaldehyde and ozone across Europe
Is the ocean surface a source of nitrous acid (HONO) in the marine boundary layer?
Measurement report: High contributions of halocarbon and aromatic compounds to atmospheric volatile organic compounds in an industrial area
Measurement report: Fast photochemical production of peroxyacetyl nitrate (PAN) over the rural North China Plain during haze events in autumn
Long-term atmospheric emissions for the Coal Oil Point natural marine hydrocarbon seep field, offshore California
Measurement report: Observation-based formaldehyde production rates and their relation to OH reactivity around the Arabian Peninsula
Comment on “Isotopic evidence for dominant secondary production of HONO in near-ground wildfire plumes” by Chai et al. (2021)
Observations and modelling of glyoxal in the tropical Atlantic marine boundary layer
Measurement report: Regional characteristics of seasonal and long-term variations in greenhouse gases at Nainital, India, and Comilla, Bangladesh
Nighttime and daytime dark oxidation chemistry in wildfire plumes: an observation and model analysis of FIREX-AQ aircraft data
The effects of the COVID-19 lockdowns on the composition of the troposphere as seen by In-service Aircraft for a Global Observing System (IAGOS) at Frankfurt
Interannual Variability of BVOC Emissions in an Alpine City
Quantification and assessment of methane emissions from offshore oil and gas facilities on the Norwegian Continental Shelf
Winter ClNO2 formation in the region of fresh anthropogenic emissions: seasonal variability and insights into daytime peaks in northern China
Speciated atmospheric mercury at the Waliguan Global Atmosphere Watch station in the northeastern Tibetan Plateau: implication of dust-related sources for particulate bound mercury
Measurement report: Variability in the composition of biogenic volatile organic compounds in a Southeastern US forest and their role in atmospheric reactivity
Spatially and temporally resolved measurements of NOx fluxes by airborne eddy covariance over Greater London
Temporary pause in the growth of atmospheric ethane and propane in 2015–2018
Formation of condensable organic vapors from anthropogenic and biogenic volatile organic compounds (VOCs) is strongly perturbed by NOx in eastern China
Seasonal and diurnal variations in biogenic volatile organic compounds in highland and lowland ecosystems in southern Kenya
Insights into the abnormal increase of ozone during COVID-19 in a typical urban city of China
An evaluation of new particle formation events in Helsinki during a Baltic Sea cyanobacterial summer bloom
Origins and characterization of CO and O3 in the African upper troposphere
Ground-based Investigation of HOx and Ozone Chemistry in Biomass Burning Plumes in Rural Idaho
Top-down and bottom-up estimates of anthropogenic methyl bromide emissions from eastern China
Direct Measurements of Ozone Response to Emissions Perturbations in California
In situ ozone production is highly sensitive to volatile organic compounds in Delhi, India
Role of Criegee intermediates in the formation of sulfuric acid at a Mediterranean (Cape Corsica) site under influence of biogenic emissions
Dynamics of gaseous oxidized mercury at Villum Research Station during the High Arctic summer
Isotopic evidence for dominant secondary production of HONO in near-ground wildfire plumes
Opinion: Papers that shaped tropospheric chemistry
Measurement report: Source apportionment of volatile organic compounds at the remote high-altitude Maïdo observatory
Shipborne measurements of methane and carbon dioxide in the Middle East and Mediterranean areas and the contribution from oil and gas emissions
Observations of iodine monoxide over three summers at the Indian Antarctic bases of Bharati and Maitri
Hisahiro Takashima, Yugo Kanaya, Saki Kato, Martina M. Friedrich, Michel Van Roozendael, Fumikazu Taketani, Takuma Miyakawa, Yuichi Komazaki, Carlos A. Cuevas, Alfonso Saiz-Lopez, and Takashi Sekiya
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 22, 4005–4018, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-4005-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-4005-2022, 2022
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We have undertaken atmospheric iodine monoxide (IO) observations in the global marine boundary layer with a wide latitudinal coverage and sea surface temperature (SST) range. We conclude that atmospheric iodine is abundant over the Western Pacific warm pool, appearing as an iodine fountain, where ozone (O3) minima occur. Our study also found negative correlations between IO and O3 concentrations over IO maxima, which requires reconsideration of the initiation process of halogen activation.
Wenjie Wang, Bin Yuan, Yuwen Peng, Hang Su, Yafang Cheng, Suxia Yang, Caihong Wu, Jipeng Qi, Fengxia Bao, Yibo Huangfu, Chaomin Wang, Chenshuo Ye, Zelong Wang, Baolin Wang, Xinming Wang, Wei Song, Weiwei Hu, Peng Cheng, Manni Zhu, Junyu Zheng, and Min Shao
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 22, 4117–4128, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-4117-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-4117-2022, 2022
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From thorough measurements of numerous oxygenated volatile organic compounds, we show that their photodissociation can be important for radical production and ozone formation in the atmosphere. This effect was underestimated in previous studies, as measurements of them were lacking.
Helen L. Fitzmaurice, Alexander J. Turner, Jinsol Kim, Katherine Chan, Erin R. Delaria, Catherine Newman, Paul Wooldridge, and Ronald C. Cohen
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 22, 3891–3900, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-3891-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-3891-2022, 2022
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On-road emissions are thought to vary widely from existing predictions, as the effects of the age of the vehicle fleet, the performance of emission control systems, and variations in speed are difficult to assess under ambient driving conditions. We present an observational approach to characterize on-road emissions and show that the method is consistent with other approaches to within ~ 3 %.
Danilo Custódio, Katrine Aspmo Pfaffhuber, T. Gerard Spain, Fidel F. Pankratov, Iana Strigunova, Koketso Molepo, Henrik Skov, Johannes Bieser, and Ralf Ebinghaus
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 22, 3827–3840, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-3827-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-3827-2022, 2022
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As a poison in the air that we breathe and the food that we eat, mercury is a human health concern for society as a whole. In that regard, this work deals with monitoring and modelling mercury in the environment, improving wherewithal, identifying the strength of the different components at play, and interpreting information to support the efforts that seek to safeguard public health.
Xiaorui Chen, Haichao Wang, and Keding Lu
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 22, 3525–3533, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-3525-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-3525-2022, 2022
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We use a complete set of simulations to evaluate whether equilibrium and steady state are appropriate for a chemical system involving several reactive nitrogen-containing species (NO2, NO3, and N2O5) under various conditions. A previously neglected bias for the coefficient applied for interpreting their effects is disclosed, and the relevant ambient factors are examined. We therefore provide a good solution to an accurate representation of nighttime chemistry in high-aerosol areas.
Jens Mühle, Lambert J. M. Kuijpers, Kieran M. Stanley, Matthew Rigby, Luke M. Western, Jooil Kim, Sunyoung Park, Christina M. Harth, Paul B. Krummel, Paul J. Fraser, Simon O'Doherty, Peter K. Salameh, Roland Schmidt, Dickon Young, Ronald G. Prinn, Ray H. J. Wang, and Ray F. Weiss
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 22, 3371–3378, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-3371-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-3371-2022, 2022
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Emissions of the strong greenhouse gas perfluorocyclobutane (c-C4F8) into the atmosphere have been increasing sharply since the early 2000s. These c-C4F8 emissions are highly correlated with the amount of hydrochlorofluorocarbon-22 produced to synthesize polytetrafluoroethylene (known for its non-stick properties) and related chemicals. From this process, c-C4F8 by-product is vented to the atmosphere. Avoiding these unnecessary c-C4F8 emissions could reduce the climate impact of this industry.
Chaoyang Xue, Can Ye, Jörg Kleffmann, Chenglong Zhang, Valéry Catoire, Fengxia Bao, Abdelwahid Mellouki, Likun Xue, Jianmin Chen, Keding Lu, Yong Zhao, Hengde Liu, Zhaoxin Guo, and Yujing Mu
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 22, 3149–3167, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-3149-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-3149-2022, 2022
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Summertime measurements of nitrous acid (HONO) and related parameters were conducted at the foot and the summit of Mt. Tai (1534 m above sea level). We proposed a rapid vertical air mass exchange between the foot and the summit level, which enhances the role of HONO in the oxidizing capacity of the upper boundary layer. Kinetics for aerosol-derived HONO sources were constrained. HONO formation from different paths was quantified and discussed.
Kathryn D. Kulju, Stephen M. McNamara, Qianjie Chen, Hannah S. Kenagy, Jacinta Edebeli, Jose D. Fuentes, Steven B. Bertman, and Kerri A. Pratt
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 22, 2553–2568, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-2553-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-2553-2022, 2022
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N2O5 uptake by chloride-containing surfaces produces ClNO2, which photolyzes, producing NO2 and highly reactive Cl radicals that impact air quality. In the inland urban atmosphere, ClNO2 was elevated during lower air turbulence and over snow-covered ground, from snowpack ClNO2 production. N2O5 and ClNO2 levels were lowest, on average, during rainfall and fog because of scavenging, with N2O5 scavenging by fog droplets likely contributing to observed increased particulate nitrate concentrations.
Huiming Lin, Yindong Tong, Chenghao Yu, Long Chen, Xiufeng Yin, Qianggong Zhang, Shichang Kang, Lun Luo, James Schauer, Benjamin de Foy, and Xuejun Wang
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 22, 2651–2668, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-2651-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-2651-2022, 2022
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The Tibetan Plateau is known as
The Third Poleand is generally considered to be a clean area owing to its high altitude. However, it may receive be impacted by air pollutants transported from the Indian subcontinent. Pollutants generally enter the Tibetan Plateau in several ways. Among them is the Yarlung Zangbu–Brahmaputra Grand Canyon. In this study, we identified the influence of the Indian summer monsoon on the origin, transport, and behavior of mercury in this area.
Dominique Rust, Ioannis Katharopoulos, Martin K. Vollmer, Stephan Henne, Simon O'Doherty, Daniel Say, Lukas Emmenegger, Renato Zenobi, and Stefan Reimann
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 22, 2447–2466, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-2447-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-2447-2022, 2022
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Artificial halocarbons contribute to ozone layer depletion and to global warming. We measured the atmospheric concentrations of halocarbons at the Beromünster tower, modelled the Swiss emissions, and compared the results to the internationally reported Swiss emissions inventory. For most of the halocarbons, we found good agreement, whereas one refrigerant might be overestimated in the inventory. In addition, we present first emission estimates of the newest types of halocarbons.
Tuija Jokinen, Katrianne Lehtipalo, Roseline Cutting Thakur, Ilona Ylivinkka, Kimmo Neitola, Nina Sarnela, Totti Laitinen, Markku Kulmala, Tuukka Petäjä, and Mikko Sipilä
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 22, 2237–2254, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-2237-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-2237-2022, 2022
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New particle formation is an important source of cloud condensation nuclei; however, long-term measurements of aerosol-forming vapors are close to nonexistent in the Arctic. Here, we report 7 months of CI-APi-TOF measurements of sulfuric acid, iodic acid, methane sulfonic acid and the sum of highly oxygenated organic molecules from the SMEAR I station in the Finnish subarctic. The results help us to understand atmospheric chemical processes and aerosol formation in this rapidly changing area.
Andrew O. Langford, Christoph J. Senff, Raul J. Alvarez II, Ken C. Aikin, Sunil Baidar, Timothy A. Bonin, W. Alan Brewer, Jerome Brioude, Steven S. Brown, Joel D. Burley, Dani J. Caputi, Stephen A. Conley, Patrick D. Cullis, Zachary C. J. Decker, Stéphanie Evan, Guillaume Kirgis, Meiyun Lin, Mariusz Pagowski, Jeff Peischl, Irina Petropavlovskikh, R. Bradley Pierce, Thomas B. Ryerson, Scott P. Sandberg, Chance W. Sterling, Ann M. Weickmann, and Li Zhang
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 22, 1707–1737, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-1707-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-1707-2022, 2022
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The Fires, Asian, and Stratospheric Transport–Las Vegas Ozone Study (FAST-LVOS) combined lidar, aircraft, and in situ measurements with global models to investigate the contributions of stratospheric intrusions, regional and Asian pollution, and wildfires to background ozone in the southwestern US during May and June 2017 and demonstrated that these processes contributed to background ozone levels that exceeded 70 % of the US National Ambient Air Quality Standard during the 6-week campaign.
Qingqing Yin, Qianli Ma, Weili Lin, Xiaobin Xu, and Jie Yao
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 22, 1015–1033, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-1015-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-1015-2022, 2022
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China has been experiencing rapid changes in emissions of air pollutants in recent decades. NOx and SO2 measurements from 2006 to 2016 at the Lin’an World Meteorological Organization Global Atmospheric Watch station were used to characterize the seasonal and diurnal variations and study the long-term trends. This study reaffirms China’s success in controlling both NOx and SO2 in the Yangtze River Delta but indicates at the same time a necessity to strengthen the NOx emission control.
Chaoyang Xue, Can Ye, Jörg Kleffmann, Wenjin Zhang, Xiaowei He, Pengfei Liu, Chenglong Zhang, Xiaoxi Zhao, Chengtang Liu, Zhuobiao Ma, Junfeng Liu, Jinhe Wang, Keding Lu, Valéry Catoire, Abdelwahid Mellouki, and Yujing Mu
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 22, 1035–1057, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-1035-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-1035-2022, 2022
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Nitrous acid (HONO) and related parameters were measured at the foot and the summit of Mt. Tai in the summer of 2018. Based on measurements at the foot station, we utilized a box model to explore the roles of different sources in the HONO budget. We also studied radical chemistry in this high-ozone region.
Baoye Hu, Jun Duan, Youwei Hong, Lingling Xu, Mengren Li, Yahui Bian, Min Qin, Wu Fang, Pinhua Xie, and Jinsheng Chen
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 22, 371–393, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-371-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-371-2022, 2022
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There has been a lack of research into HONO in coastal cities with low concentrations of PM2.5, but strong sunlight and high humidity. Insufficient research on coastal cities with good air quality has resulted in certain obstacles to assessing the photochemical processes in these areas. Furthermore, HONO contributes to the atmospheric photochemistry depending on the season. Therefore, observations of HONO across four seasons in the southeastern coastal area of China are urgently needed.
Jin Liao, Glenn M. Wolfe, Reem A. Hannun, Jason M. St. Clair, Thomas F. Hanisco, Jessica B. Gilman, Aaron Lamplugh, Vanessa Selimovic, Glenn S. Diskin, John B. Nowak, Hannah S. Halliday, Joshua P. DiGangi, Samuel R. Hall, Kirk Ullmann, Christopher D. Holmes, Charles H. Fite, Anxhelo Agastra, Thomas B. Ryerson, Jeff Peischl, Ilann Bourgeois, Carsten Warneke, Matthew M. Coggon, Georgios I. Gkatzelis, Kanako Sekimoto, Alan Fried, Dirk Richter, Petter Weibring, Eric C. Apel, Rebecca S. Hornbrook, Steven S. Brown, Caroline C. Womack, Michael A. Robinson, Rebecca A. Washenfelder, Patrick R. Veres, and J. Andrew Neuman
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 21, 18319–18331, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-18319-2021, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-18319-2021, 2021
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Formaldehyde (HCHO) is an important oxidant precursor and affects the formation of O3 and other secondary pollutants in wildfire plumes. We disentangle the processes controlling HCHO evolution from wildfire plumes sampled by NASA DC-8 during FIREX-AQ. We find that OH abundance rather than normalized OH reactivity is the main driver of fire-to-fire variability in HCHO secondary production and estimate an effective HCHO yield per volatile organic compound molecule oxidized in wildfire plumes.
Clara M. Nussbaumer, John N. Crowley, Jan Schuladen, Jonathan Williams, Sascha Hafermann, Andreas Reiffs, Raoul Axinte, Hartwig Harder, Cheryl Ernest, Anna Novelli, Katrin Sala, Monica Martinez, Chinmay Mallik, Laura Tomsche, Christian Plass-Dülmer, Birger Bohn, Jos Lelieveld, and Horst Fischer
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 21, 18413–18432, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-18413-2021, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-18413-2021, 2021
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HCHO is an important atmospheric trace gas influencing the photochemical processes in the Earth’s atmosphere, including the budget of HOx and the abundance of tropospheric O3. This research presents the photochemical calculations of HCHO and O3 based on three field campaigns across Europe. We show that HCHO production via the oxidation of only four volatile organic compound precursors, i.e., CH4, CH3CHO, C5H8 and CH3OH, can balance the observed loss at all sites well.
Leigh R. Crilley, Louisa J. Kramer, Francis D. Pope, Chris Reed, James D. Lee, Lucy J. Carpenter, Lloyd D. J. Hollis, Stephen M. Ball, and William J. Bloss
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 21, 18213–18225, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-18213-2021, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-18213-2021, 2021
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Nitrous acid (HONO) is a key source of atmospheric oxidants. We evaluate if the ocean surface is a source of HONO for the marine boundary layer, using measurements from two contrasting coastal locations. We observed no evidence for a night-time ocean surface source, in contrast to previous work. This points to significant geographical variation in the predominant HONO formation mechanisms in marine environments, reflecting possible variability in the sea-surface microlayer composition.
Ahsan Mozaffar, Yan-Lin Zhang, Yu-Chi Lin, Feng Xie, Mei-Yi Fan, and Fang Cao
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 21, 18087–18099, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-18087-2021, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-18087-2021, 2021
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We performed a long-term investigation of ambient volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in an industrial area in Nanjing, China. Followed by alkanes, halocarbons and aromatics were the most abundant VOC groups. Vehicle-related emissions were the major VOC sources in the study area. Aromatic and alkene VOCs were responsible for most of the atmospheric reactions.
Yulu Qiu, Zhiqiang Ma, Ke Li, Mengyu Huang, Jiujiang Sheng, Ping Tian, Jia Zhu, Weiwei Pu, Yingxiao Tang, Tingting Han, Huaigang Zhou, and Hong Liao
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 21, 17995–18010, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-17995-2021, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-17995-2021, 2021
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Photochemical pollution over the North China Plain (NCP) is attracting much concern. Our observations at a rural site in the NCP identified high peroxyacetyl nitrate (PAN) concentrations, even on cold days. Increased acetaldehyde concentration and hydroxyl radical production rates drive fast PAN formation. Moreover, our study emphasizes the importance of formaldehyde photolysis in PAN formation and calls for implementing strict volatile organic compound controls after summer over the NCP.
Ira Leifer, Christopher Melton, and Donald R. Blake
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 21, 17607–17629, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-17607-2021, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-17607-2021, 2021
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We demonstrate a novel application using air quality station data to derive 3-decade-averaged emissions from the Coal Oil Point (COP) seep field, a highly spatially and temporally variable geological migration system. Emissions were 19 Gg per year, suggesting that the COP seep field contributes 0.27 % of the global marine seep budget based on a recent estimate. This provides an advance over snapshot survey values by accounting for seasonal and interannual variations.
Dirk Dienhart, John N. Crowley, Efstratios Bourtsoukidis, Achim Edtbauer, Philipp G. Eger, Lisa Ernle, Hartwig Harder, Bettina Hottmann, Monica Martinez, Uwe Parchatka, Jean-Daniel Paris, Eva Y. Pfannerstill, Roland Rohloff, Jan Schuladen, Christof Stönner, Ivan Tadic, Sebastian Tauer, Nijing Wang, Jonathan Williams, Jos Lelieveld, and Horst Fischer
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 21, 17373–17388, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-17373-2021, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-17373-2021, 2021
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We present the first ship-based in situ measurements of formaldehyde (HCHO), hydroxyl radicals (OH) and the OH reactivity around the Arabian Peninsula. Regression analysis of the HCHO production rate and the related OH chemistry revealed the regional HCHO yield αeff, which represents the different chemical regimes encountered. Highest values were found for the Arabian Gulf (also known as the Persian Gulf), which highlights this region as a hotspot of photochemical air pollution.
James M. Roberts
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 21, 16793–16795, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-16793-2021, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-16793-2021, 2021
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This comment provides evidence that recently reported measurements of the isotope composition of wildfire-derived oxides of nitrogen have a significant interference from other nitrogen compounds. In addition, the conceptual model used to interpret the results was missing several key reactions.
Hannah Walker, Daniel Stone, Trevor Ingham, Sina Hackenberg, Danny Cryer, Shalini Punjabi, Katie Read, James Lee, Lisa Whalley, Dominick Vincent Spracklen, Lucy Jane Carpenter, Steve Robert Arnold, and Dwayne Ellis Heard
Atmos. Chem. Phys. Discuss., https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-2021-940, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-2021-940, 2021
Revised manuscript accepted for ACP
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Glyoxal is a ubiquitous reactive organic compound in the atmosphere, which may form organic aerosol and impact the atmosphere's oxidising capacity. There are limited measurements of glyoxal's abundance in the remote marine atmosphere. We made new measurements of glyoxal using a highly sensitive technique over two 4-week periods in the tropical Atlantic atmosphere. We show that daytime measurements are mostly consistent with our chemical understanding, with a potential missing source at night.
Shohei Nomura, Manish Naja, M. Kawser Ahmed, Hitoshi Mukai, Yukio Terao, Toshinobu Machida, Motoki Sasakawa, and Prabir K. Patra
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 21, 16427–16452, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-16427-2021, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-16427-2021, 2021
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Long-term measurements of greenhouse gases (GHGs) in India and Bangladesh unveiled specific characteristics in their variations in these regions. Plants including rice cultivated in winter and summer strongly affected seasonal variations and levels in CO2 and CH4. Long-term variability of GHGs showed quite different features in their growth rates from those in Mauna Loa. GHG trends in this region seemed to be hardly affected by El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO).
Zachary C. J. Decker, Michael A. Robinson, Kelley C. Barsanti, Ilann Bourgeois, Matthew M. Coggon, Joshua P. DiGangi, Glenn S. Diskin, Frank M. Flocke, Alessandro Franchin, Carley D. Fredrickson, Georgios I. Gkatzelis, Samuel R. Hall, Hannah Halliday, Christopher D. Holmes, L. Gregory Huey, Young Ro Lee, Jakob Lindaas, Ann M. Middlebrook, Denise D. Montzka, Richard Moore, J. Andrew Neuman, John B. Nowak, Brett B. Palm, Jeff Peischl, Felix Piel, Pamela S. Rickly, Andrew W. Rollins, Thomas B. Ryerson, Rebecca H. Schwantes, Kanako Sekimoto, Lee Thornhill, Joel A. Thornton, Geoffrey S. Tyndall, Kirk Ullmann, Paul Van Rooy, Patrick R. Veres, Carsten Warneke, Rebecca A. Washenfelder, Andrew J. Weinheimer, Elizabeth Wiggins, Edward Winstead, Armin Wisthaler, Caroline Womack, and Steven S. Brown
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 21, 16293–16317, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-16293-2021, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-16293-2021, 2021
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To understand air quality impacts from wildfires, we need an accurate picture of how wildfire smoke changes chemically both day and night as sunlight changes the chemistry of smoke. We present a chemical analysis of wildfire smoke as it changes from midday through the night. We use aircraft observations from the FIREX-AQ field campaign with a chemical box model. We find that even under sunlight typical
nighttimechemistry thrives and controls the fate of key smoke plume chemical processes.
Hannah Clark, Yasmine Bennouna, Maria Tsivlidou, Pawel Wolff, Bastien Sauvage, Brice Barret, Eric Le Flochmoën, Romain Blot, Damien Boulanger, Jean-Marc Cousin, Philippe Nédélec, Andreas Petzold, and Valérie Thouret
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 21, 16237–16256, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-16237-2021, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-16237-2021, 2021
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We examined 27 years of IAGOS (In-service Aircraft for a Global Observing System) profiles at Frankfurt to see if there were unusual features during the spring of 2020 related to COVID-19 lockdowns in Europe. Increased ozone near the surface was partly linked to the reduction in emissions. Carbon monoxide decreased near the surface, but the impact of the lockdowns was offset by polluted air masses from elsewhere. There were small reductions in ozone and carbon monoxide in the free troposphere.
Lisa Kaser, Arianna Peron, Martin Graus, Marcus Striednig, Georg Wohlfahrt, Stanislav Juráň, and Thomas Karl
Atmos. Chem. Phys. Discuss., https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-2021-851, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-2021-851, 2021
Revised manuscript accepted for ACP
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Biogenic volatile organic compounds (e.g. terpenoids) play an essential role in atmospheric chemistry. Urban greening activities need to consider the ozone and aerosol forming potential of these compounds released from vegetation. NMVOC emissions in urban environments are complex, and the biogenic component remains poorly quantified. We find that for summer conditions biogenic emissions dominate terpene emissions and that heat waves can significantly modulate urban biogenic terpenoid emissions.
Amy Foulds, Grant Allen, Jacob T. Shaw, Prudence Bateson, Patrick A. Barker, Langwen Huang, Joseph R. Pitt, James D. Lee, Shona E. Wilde, Pamela Dominutti, Ruth M. Purvis, David Lowry, James L. France, Rebecca E. Fisher, Alina Fiehn, Magdalena Pühl, Stéphane J. B. Bauguitte, Stephen A. Conley, Mackenzie L. Smith, Tom Lachlan-Cope, Ignacio Pisso, and Stefan Schwietzke
Atmos. Chem. Phys. Discuss., https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-2021-872, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-2021-872, 2021
Revised manuscript accepted for ACP
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In this work, we compare atmospheric measurements of methane from offshore oil and gas facilities on the Norwegian Continental Shelf with estimates from a global emission inventory and operator-supplied, facility-level emissions data. Results from this study highlight the importance of facility-level reporting on a global scale, as this will provide a more accurate estimate of methane emissions and aid future climate legislation.
Men Xia, Xiang Peng, Weihao Wang, Chuan Yu, Zhe Wang, Yee Jun Tham, Jianmin Chen, Hui Chen, Yujing Mu, Chenglong Zhang, Pengfei Liu, Likun Xue, Xinfeng Wang, Jian Gao, Hong Li, and Tao Wang
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 21, 15985–16000, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-15985-2021, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-15985-2021, 2021
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ClNO2 is an important precursor of chlorine radical that affects photochemistry. However, its production and impact are not well understood. Our study presents field observations of ClNO2 at three sites in northern China. These observations provide new insights into nighttime processes that produce ClNO2 and the significant impact of ClNO2 on secondary pollutions during daytime. The results improve the understanding of photochemical pollution in the lower part of the atmosphere.
Hui Zhang, Xuewu Fu, Ben Yu, Baoxin Li, Peng Liu, Guoqing Zhang, Leiming Zhang, and Xinbin Feng
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 21, 15847–15859, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-15847-2021, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-15847-2021, 2021
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Our observations of speciated atmospheric mercury at the Waliguan GAW Baseline Observatory show that concentrations of gaseous elemental mercury (GEM) and particulate bound mercury (PBM) were elevated compared to the Northern Hemisphere background. We propose that the major sources of GEM and PBM were mainly related to anthropogenic emissions and desert dust sources. This study highlights that dust-related sources played an important role in the variations of PBM in the Tibetan Plateau.
Deborah F. McGlynn, Laura E. R. Barry, Manuel T. Lerdau, Sally E. Pusede, and Gabriel Isaacman-VanWertz
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 21, 15755–15770, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-15755-2021, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-15755-2021, 2021
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We present 1 year of hourly measurements of chemically resolved Biogenic volatile organic compound (BVOCs) between 15 September 2019 and 15 September 2020, collected at a research tower in central Virginia. Concentrations of a range of BVOCs are described and examined for their impact on atmospheric reactivity. The majority of reactivity comes from α-pinene and limonene, highlighting the importance of both concentration and structure in assessing atmospheric impacts of emissions.
Adam R. Vaughan, James D. Lee, Stefan Metzger, David Durden, Alastair C. Lewis, Marvin D. Shaw, Will S. Drysdale, Ruth M. Purvis, Brian Davison, and C. Nicholas Hewitt
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 21, 15283–15298, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-15283-2021, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-15283-2021, 2021
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Validating emissions estimates of atmospheric pollutants is a vital pathway towards reducing urban concentrations of air pollution and ensuring effective legislative controls are implemented. The work presented here highlights a strategy capable of quantifying and spatially disaggregating NOx emissions over challenging urban terrain. This work shows great scope as a tool for emission inventory validation and independent generation of high-resolution surface emissions on a city-wide scale.
Hélène Angot, Connor Davel, Christine Wiedinmyer, Gabrielle Pétron, Jashan Chopra, Jacques Hueber, Brendan Blanchard, Ilann Bourgeois, Isaac Vimont, Stephen A. Montzka, Ben R. Miller, James W. Elkins, and Detlev Helmig
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 21, 15153–15170, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-15153-2021, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-15153-2021, 2021
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After a multidecadal global decline in atmospheric abundance of ethane and propane (precursors of tropospheric ozone and aerosols), previous work showed a reversal of this trend in 2009–2015 in the Northern Hemisphere due to the growth in oil and natural gas production in North America. Here we show a temporary pause in the growth of atmospheric ethane and propane in 2015–2018 and highlight the critical need for additional top-down studies to further constrain ethane and propane emissions.
Yuliang Liu, Wei Nie, Yuanyuan Li, Dafeng Ge, Chong Liu, Zhengning Xu, Liangduo Chen, Tianyi Wang, Lei Wang, Peng Sun, Ximeng Qi, Jiaping Wang, Zheng Xu, Jian Yuan, Chao Yan, Yanjun Zhang, Dandan Huang, Zhe Wang, Neil M. Donahue, Douglas Worsnop, Xuguang Chi, Mikael Ehn, and Aijun Ding
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 21, 14789–14814, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-14789-2021, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-14789-2021, 2021
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Oxygenated organic molecules (OOMs) are crucial intermediates linking volatile organic compounds to secondary organic aerosols. Using nitrate time-of-flight chemical ionization mass spectrometry in eastern China, we performed positive matrix factorization (PMF) on binned OOM mass spectra. We reconstructed over 1000 molecules from 14 derived PMF factors and identified about 72 % of the observed OOMs as organic nitrates, highlighting the decisive role of NOx in OOM formation in populated areas.
Yang Liu, Simon Schallhart, Ditte Taipale, Toni Tykkä, Matti Räsänen, Lutz Merbold, Heidi Hellén, and Petri Pellikka
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 21, 14761–14787, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-14761-2021, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-14761-2021, 2021
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We studied the mixing ratio of biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs) in a humid highland and dry lowland African ecosystem in Kenya. The mixing ratio of monoterpenoids was similar to that measured in the relevant ecosystems in western and southern Africa, while that of isoprene was lower. Modeling the emission factors (EFs) for BVOCs from the lowlands, the EFs for isoprene and β-pinene agreed well with what is assumed in the MEGAN, while those of α-pinene and limonene were higher.
Kun Zhang, Zhiqiang Liu, Xiaojuan Zhang, Qing Li, Andrew Jensen, Wen Tan, Ling Huang, Yangjun Wang, Joost de Gouw, and Li Li
Atmos. Chem. Phys. Discuss., https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-2021-834, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-2021-834, 2021
Revised manuscript accepted for ACP
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Abnormal increase of O3 concentrations were found during the lockdown period in COVID-19 in most areas of China. By field measurement coupled with machine learning, observation-based model (OBM), and sensitivity analysis, we found the changes in NOx / VOCs ratios was the key reason for the abnormal rise of O3. To restrain O3 pollution, more efforts should be paid on the control of anthropogenic OVOCs, alkenes, and aromatics.
Roseline Cutting Thakur, Lubna Dada, Lisa J. Beck, Lauriane L. J. Quéléver, Tommy Chan, Marjan Marbouti, Xu-Cheng He, Carlton Xavier, Juha Sulo, Janne Lampilahti, Markus Lampimäki, Yee Jun Tham, Nina Sarnela, Katrianne Lehtipalo, Alf Norkko, Markku Kulmala, Mikko Sipilä, and Tuija Jokinen
Atmos. Chem. Phys. Discuss., https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-2021-729, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-2021-729, 2021
Revised manuscript accepted for ACP
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Every year intense cyanobacterial and macroalgal blooms occur in the Baltic Sea and in the coastal areas surrounding Helsinki, yet no studies address the impact of biogenic emissions from these blooms on the gas-vapor concentrations, which in turn could influence new particle formations. This is the first of its kind study, which addresses the chemistry driving the new particle formations (NPF) during a bloom period in this region, highlighting the role of biogenic sulphuric acid and iodic acid.
Victor Lannuque, Bastien Sauvage, Brice Barret, Hannah Clark, Gilles Athier, Damien Boulanger, Jean-Pierre Cammas, Jean-Marc Cousin, Alain Fontaine, Eric Le Flochmoën, Philippe Nédélec, Hervé Petetin, Isabelle Pfaffenzeller, Susanne Rohs, Herman G. J. Smit, Pawel Wolff, and Valérie Thouret
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 21, 14535–14555, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-14535-2021, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-14535-2021, 2021
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The African intertropical troposphere is one of the world areas where the increase in ozone mixing ratio has been most pronounced since 1980 and where high carbon monoxide mixing ratios are found in altitude. In this article, IAGOS aircraft measurements, IASI satellite instrument observations, and SOFT-IO model products are used to explore the seasonal distribution variations and the origin of ozone and carbon monoxide over the African upper troposphere.
Andrew J. Lindsay, Daniel C. Anderson, Rebecca A. Wernis, Yutong Liang, Allen H. Goldstein, Scott C. Herndon, Joseph R. Roscioli, Christoph Dyroff, Ed C. Fortner, Philip L. Croteau, Francesca Majluf, Jordan E. Krechmer, Tara I. Yacovitch, Walter B. Knighton, and Ezra C. Wood
Atmos. Chem. Phys. Discuss., https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-2021-702, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-2021-702, 2021
Revised manuscript accepted for ACP
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Wildfire smoke dramatically impacts air quality and often has elevated concentrations of ozone. We present measurements of ozone and its precursors at a rural site periodically impacted by wildfire smoke. Measurements of total peroxy radicals, key ozone precursors that have been understudied within wildfires, compare well with chemical box model predictions. Our results indicate no serious issues with using current chemistry mechanisms to model chemistry in aged wildfire plumes.
Haklim Choi, Mi-Kyung Park, Paul J. Fraser, Hyeri Park, Sohyeon Geum, Jens Mühle, Jooil Kim, Ian Porter, Peter K. Salameh, Christina M. Harth, Bronwyn L. Dunse, Paul B. Krummel, Ray F. Weiss, Simon O'Doherty, Dickon Young, and Sunyoung Park
Atmos. Chem. Phys. Discuss., https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-2021-699, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-2021-699, 2021
Revised manuscript accepted for ACP
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We observed 12-years continuous CH3Br pollution signals at Gosan and estimated anthropogenic CH3Br emissions in eastern China. The analysis revealed a significant discrepancy between top-down estimates and the bottom-up emissions from the fumigation usage reported to the United Nations Environment Programme, and likely from unreported or inaccurately reported fumigation usage. This result provides information to monitor international compliance with the Montreal Protocol.
Shenglun Wu, Hyung Joo Lee, Andrea Rohrbacher, Shang Liu, Toshihiro Kuwayama, John H. Seinfeld, and Michael J. Kleeman
Atmos. Chem. Phys. Discuss., https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-2021-708, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-2021-708, 2021
Revised manuscript accepted for ACP
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An ozone control experiment usually conducted in the laboratory was installed in a trailer and moved to the outdoor environment to directly confirm that we are controlling the right sources in order to lower ambient ozone concentrations. Adding small amounts of precursor oxides of nitrogen and volatile organic compounds to ambient air showed that the highest ozone concentrations are best controlled by reducing concentrations of oxides of nitrogen. The results confirm satellite measurements.
Beth S. Nelson, Gareth J. Stewart, Will S. Drysdale, Mike J. Newland, Adam R. Vaughan, Rachel E. Dunmore, Pete M. Edwards, Alastair C. Lewis, Jacqueline F. Hamilton, W. Joe Acton, C. Nicholas Hewitt, Leigh R. Crilley, Mohammed S. Alam, Ülkü A. Şahin, David C. S. Beddows, William J. Bloss, Eloise Slater, Lisa K. Whalley, Dwayne E. Heard, James M. Cash, Ben Langford, Eiko Nemitz, Roberto Sommariva, Sam Cox, Shivani, Ranu Gadi, Bhola R. Gurjar, James R. Hopkins, Andrew R. Rickard, and James D. Lee
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 21, 13609–13630, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-13609-2021, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-13609-2021, 2021
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Ozone production at an urban site in Delhi is sensitive to volatile organic compound (VOC) concentrations, particularly those of the aromatic, monoterpene, and alkene VOC classes. The change in ozone production by varying atmospheric pollutants according to their sources, as defined in an emissions inventory, is investigated. The study suggests that reducing road transport emissions alone does not reduce reactive VOCs in the atmosphere enough to perturb an increase in ozone production.
Alexandre Kukui, Michel Chartier, Jinhe Wang, Hui Chen, Sébastien Dusanter, Stéphane Sauvage, Vincent Michoud, Nadine Locoge, Valérie Gros, Thierry Bourrianne, Karine Sellegri, and Jean-Marc Pichon
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 21, 13333–13351, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-13333-2021, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-13333-2021, 2021
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Sulfuric acid, H2SO4, plays a key role in formation of secondary atmospheric aerosol particles. It is generally accepted that the major atmospheric source of H2SO4 is the reaction of OH radicals with SO2. In this study, importance of an additional H2SO4 source via oxidation of SO2 by stabilized Criegee intermediates was estimated based on measurements at a remote site on Cape Corsica. It was found that the oxidation of SO2 by SCI may be an important source of H2SO4, especially during nighttime.
Jakob Boyd Pernov, Bjarne Jensen, Andreas Massling, Daniel Charles Thomas, and Henrik Skov
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 21, 13287–13309, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-13287-2021, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-13287-2021, 2021
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Atmospheric mercury species (GEM, GOM, PHg) are important constituents in the High Arctic due to their detrimental effects on human and ecosystem health. However, understanding their behavior in the High Arctic summer remains lacking. This research investigates the dynamics of mercury oxidation in the High Arctic summer. The cold, dry, sunlit free troposphere was associated with events of high GOM in the High Arctic summer, while individual events yielded unique origins.
Jiajue Chai, Jack E. Dibb, Bruce E. Anderson, Claire Bekker, Danielle E. Blum, Eric Heim, Carolyn E. Jordan, Emily E. Joyce, Jackson H. Kaspari, Hannah Munro, Wendell W. Walters, and Meredith G. Hastings
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 21, 13077–13098, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-13077-2021, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-13077-2021, 2021
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Nitrous acid (HONO) derived from wildfire emissions plays a key role in controlling atmospheric oxidation chemistry. However, the HONO budget remains poorly constrained. By combining the field-observed concentrations and novel isotopic composition (N and O) of HONO and nitrogen oxides (NOx), we quantitatively constrained the relative contribution of each pathway to secondary HONO production and the relative importance of major atmospheric oxidants (ozone versus peroxy) in aged wildfire smoke.
Paul S. Monks, A. R. Ravishankara, Erika von Schneidemesser, and Roberto Sommariva
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 21, 12909–12948, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-12909-2021, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-12909-2021, 2021
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Which published papers have transformed our understanding of the chemical processes in the troposphere and shaped the field of atmospheric chemistry? We explore how these papers have shaped the development of the field of atmospheric chemistry and identify the major landmarks in the field of atmospheric chemistry through the lens of those papers' impact on science, legislation and environmental events.
Bert Verreyken, Crist Amelynck, Niels Schoon, Jean-François Müller, Jérôme Brioude, Nicolas Kumps, Christian Hermans, Jean-Marc Metzger, Aurélie Colomb, and Trissevgeni Stavrakou
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 21, 12965–12988, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-12965-2021, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-12965-2021, 2021
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We present a 2-year dataset of trace gas concentrations, specifically an array of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), recorded at the Maïdo observatory, a remote tropical high-altitude site located on a small island in the southwest Indian Ocean. We found that island-scale transport is an important driver for the daily cycle of VOC concentrations. During the day, surface emissions from the island affect the atmospheric composition at Maïdo greatly, while at night this impact is strongly reduced.
Jean-Daniel Paris, Aurélie Riandet, Efstratios Bourtsoukidis, Marc Delmotte, Antoine Berchet, Jonathan Williams, Lisa Ernle, Ivan Tadic, Hartwig Harder, and Jos Lelieveld
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 21, 12443–12462, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-12443-2021, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-12443-2021, 2021
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We measured atmospheric methane and CO2 by ship in the Middle East. We probe the origin of methane with a combination of light alkane measurements and modeling. We find strong influence from nearby oil and gas production over the Arabian Gulf. Comparing our data to inventories indicates that inventories overestimate sources from the upstream gas industry but underestimate emissions from oil extraction and processing. The Red Sea was under a complex mixture of sources due to human activity.
Anoop S. Mahajan, Mriganka S. Biswas, Steffen Beirle, Thomas Wagner, Anja Schönhardt, Nuria Benavent, and Alfonso Saiz-Lopez
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 21, 11829–11842, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-11829-2021, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-11829-2021, 2021
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Iodine plays a vital role in oxidation chemistry over Antarctica, with past observations showing highly elevated levels of iodine oxide (IO) leading to severe depletion of boundary layer ozone. We present IO observations over three summers (2015–2017) at the Indian Antarctic bases of Bharati and Maitri. IO was observed during all campaigns with mixing ratios below 2 pptv, which is lower than the peak levels observed in West Antarctica, showing the differences in regional chemistry and emissions.
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Brunke, E.-G., Ebinghaus, R., Kock, H.H., Labuschagne, C., and Slemr, F.: Emissions of mercury in southern Africa derived from long-term measurements at Cape Point, South Africa, Atmos. Chem. Phys. 12, 7465-7474, 2012.
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