Articles | Volume 15, issue 18
https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-15-10271-2015
© Author(s) 2015. This work is distributed under
the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 License.
the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 License.
https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-15-10271-2015
© Author(s) 2015. This work is distributed under
the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 License.
the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 License.
Research article
| 
16 Sep 2015
Research article |
| 16 Sep 2015
Statistical exploration of gaseous elemental mercury (GEM) measured at Cape Point from 2007 to 2011
A. D. Venter
Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
J. P. Beukes
Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
E.-G. Brunke
South African Weather Service, P.O. Box 320, Stellenbosch 7599, South Africa
C. Labuschagne
South African Weather Service, P.O. Box 320, Stellenbosch 7599, South Africa
F. Slemr
Max-Planck-Institut für Chemie, Hahn-Meitner-Weg 1, 55128 Mainz, Germany
R. Ebinghaus
Helmholtz-Zentrum Geesthacht, Institute of Coastal Research, Max-Planck-Strasse, 21502 Geesthacht, Germany
H. Kock
Helmholtz-Zentrum Geesthacht, Institute of Coastal Research, Max-Planck-Strasse, 21502 Geesthacht, Germany
Related authors
Matti Räsänen, Mika Aurela, Ville Vakkari, Johan P. Beukes, Juha-Pekka Tuovinen, Pieter G. Van Zyl, Miroslav Josipovic, Andrew D. Venter, Kerneels Jaars, Stefan J. Siebert, Tuomas Laurila, Janne Rinne, and Lauri Laakso
Biogeosciences, 14, 1039–1054, https://doi.org/10.5194/bg-14-1039-2017, https://doi.org/10.5194/bg-14-1039-2017, 2017
Short summary
Short summary
This study presents measurements of carbon dioxide exchange between the atmosphere and a grazed savanna grassland ecosystem for 3 years. We find that the yearly variation in carbon dioxide balance is largely determined by the changes in the early wet season balance (September to November) and in the mid-growing season balance (December to January).
Hagninou Elagnon Venance Donnou, Aristide Barthélémy Akpo, Money Ossohou, Claire Delon, Véronique Yoboué, Dungall Laouali, Marie Ouafo-Leumbe, Pieter Gideon Van Zyl, Ousmane Ndiaye, Eric Gardrat, Maria Dias-Alves, and Corinne Galy-Lacaux
EGUsphere, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2024-284, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2024-284, 2024
This preprint is open for discussion and under review for Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics (ACP).
Short summary
Short summary
Ozone is a secondary air pollutant that is detrimental to human and plant health. A better understanding of its chemical evolution is a challenge for Africa, where it is still under-sampled. Out of 14 sites examined (1995–2020), high levels of O3 are reported in southern Africa. The dominant chemical processes leading to O3 formation are identified. A decrease in O3 is observed at Katibougou (Mali) and Banizoumbou (Niger), and an increase at Zoétélé (Cameroon) and Skukuza (South Africa).
Matti Räsänen, Mika Aurela, Ville Vakkari, Johan P. Beukes, Juha-Pekka Tuovinen, Pieter G. Van Zyl, Miroslav Josipovic, Stefan J. Siebert, Tuomas Laurila, Markku Kulmala, Lauri Laakso, Janne Rinne, Ram Oren, and Gabriel Katul
Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci., 26, 5773–5791, https://doi.org/10.5194/hess-26-5773-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/hess-26-5773-2022, 2022
Short summary
Short summary
The productivity of semiarid grazed grasslands is linked to the variation in rainfall and transpiration. By combining carbon dioxide and water flux measurements, we show that the annual transpiration is nearly constant during wet years while grasses react quickly to dry spells and drought, which reduce transpiration. The planning of annual grazing strategies could consider the early-season rainfall frequency that was linked to the portion of annual transpiration.
Constance K. Segakweng, Pieter G. van Zyl, Cathy Liousse, Johan P. Beukes, Jan-Stefan Swartz, Eric Gardrat, Maria Dias-Alves, Brigitte Language, Roelof P. Burger, and Stuart J. Piketh
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 22, 10291–10317, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-10291-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-10291-2022, 2022
Short summary
Short summary
A detailed size-resolved assessment of the chemical characteristics of outdoor and indoor aerosols collected in low-income urban settlements in South Africa indicated the significance of household combustion for cooking and space heating – an important source of pollutants in the developing world – to atmospheric chemical composition. The regional impact of industrial sources in the highly industrialised and densely populated north-eastern interior of South Africa was also evident.
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.
Clémence Rose, Martine Collaud Coen, Elisabeth Andrews, Yong Lin, Isaline Bossert, Cathrine Lund Myhre, Thomas Tuch, Alfred Wiedensohler, Markus Fiebig, Pasi Aalto, Andrés Alastuey, Elisabeth Alonso-Blanco, Marcos Andrade, Begoña Artíñano, Todor Arsov, Urs Baltensperger, Susanne Bastian, Olaf Bath, Johan Paul Beukes, Benjamin T. Brem, Nicolas Bukowiecki, Juan Andrés Casquero-Vera, Sébastien Conil, Konstantinos Eleftheriadis, Olivier Favez, Harald Flentje, Maria I. Gini, Francisco Javier Gómez-Moreno, Martin Gysel-Beer, Anna Gannet Hallar, Ivo Kalapov, Nikos Kalivitis, Anne Kasper-Giebl, Melita Keywood, Jeong Eun Kim, Sang-Woo Kim, Adam Kristensson, Markku Kulmala, Heikki Lihavainen, Neng-Huei Lin, Hassan Lyamani, Angela Marinoni, Sebastiao Martins Dos Santos, Olga L. Mayol-Bracero, Frank Meinhardt, Maik Merkel, Jean-Marc Metzger, Nikolaos Mihalopoulos, Jakub Ondracek, Marco Pandolfi, Noemi Pérez, Tuukka Petäjä, Jean-Eudes Petit, David Picard, Jean-Marc Pichon, Veronique Pont, Jean-Philippe Putaud, Fabienne Reisen, Karine Sellegri, Sangeeta Sharma, Gerhard Schauer, Patrick Sheridan, James Patrick Sherman, Andreas Schwerin, Ralf Sohmer, Mar Sorribas, Junying Sun, Pierre Tulet, Ville Vakkari, Pieter Gideon van Zyl, Fernando Velarde, Paolo Villani, Stergios Vratolis, Zdenek Wagner, Sheng-Hsiang Wang, Kay Weinhold, Rolf Weller, Margarita Yela, Vladimir Zdimal, and Paolo Laj
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 21, 17185–17223, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-17185-2021, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-17185-2021, 2021
Short summary
Short summary
Aerosol particles are a complex component of the atmospheric system the effects of which are among the most uncertain in climate change projections. Using data collected at 62 stations, this study provides the most up-to-date picture of the spatial distribution of particle number concentration and size distribution worldwide, with the aim of contributing to better representation of aerosols and their interactions with clouds in models and, therefore, better evaluation of their impact on climate.
Jan-Stefan Swartz, Pieter G. van Zyl, Johan P. Beukes, Corinne Galy-Lacaux, Avishkar Ramandh, and Jacobus J. Pienaar
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 20, 10637–10665, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-20-10637-2020, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-20-10637-2020, 2020
Short summary
Short summary
Statistical modelling of interdependencies between local, regional and global parameters on long-term trends of atmospheric SO2, NO2 and O2 within proximity of the pollution hotspot in South Africa indicated that changes in meteorological conditions and/or variances in source influences contributed to temporal variability. The impact of increased anthropogenic activities and energy demand was evident, while the El Niño–Southern Oscillation made a significant contribution to O3 levels.
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
Short summary
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
Short summary
Short summary
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
Short summary
Short summary
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.
Matti Räsänen, Mika Aurela, Ville Vakkari, Johan P. Beukes, Juha-Pekka Tuovinen, Pieter G. Van Zyl, Miroslav Josipovic, Stefan J. Siebert, Tuomas Laurila, Markku Kulmala, Lauri Laakso, Janne Rinne, Ram Oren, and Gabriel Katul
Hydrol. Earth Syst. Sci. Discuss., https://doi.org/10.5194/hess-2019-651, https://doi.org/10.5194/hess-2019-651, 2020
Revised manuscript not accepted
Short summary
Short summary
The annual ET is approximately equal to precipitation during six measured years for grazed savanna grassland. The computed annual transpiration was highly constrained when rainfall was near or above the long-term mean but was reduced during severe drought year. The developed methodologies can be used in a wide range of arid and semi-arid ecosystems.
Ville Vakkari, Antti J. Manninen, Ewan J. O'Connor, Jan H. Schween, Pieter G. van Zyl, and Eleni Marinou
Atmos. Meas. Tech., 12, 839–852, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-12-839-2019, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-12-839-2019, 2019
Short summary
Short summary
Commercially available Doppler lidars have been proven to be efficient tools for studying winds and turbulence in the planetary boundary layer. However, in many cases low signal is still a limiting factor for utilising measurements by these devices. Here, we present a novel post-processing algorithm for Halo Stream Line Doppler lidars, which enables an improvement in sensitivity of a factor of 5 or more.
Tracey Leah Laban, Pieter Gideon van Zyl, Johan Paul Beukes, Ville Vakkari, Kerneels Jaars, Nadine Borduas-Dedekind, Miroslav Josipovic, Anne Mee Thompson, Markku Kulmala, and Lauri Laakso
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 18, 15491–15514, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-18-15491-2018, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-18-15491-2018, 2018
Short summary
Short summary
Surface O3 was measured at four sites in the north-eastern interior of South Africa, which revealed that O3 is a regional problem in continental South Africa, with elevated O3 levels found at rural background and industrial sites. Increased O3 concentrations were associated with high CO levels predominantly related to regional biomass burning, while the O3 production regime was established to be predominantly VOC limited. Increased O3 is associated with strong seasonality of precursor sources.
Tuomo Nieminen, Veli-Matti Kerminen, Tuukka Petäjä, Pasi P. Aalto, Mikhail Arshinov, Eija Asmi, Urs Baltensperger, David C. S. Beddows, Johan Paul Beukes, Don Collins, Aijun Ding, Roy M. Harrison, Bas Henzing, Rakesh Hooda, Min Hu, Urmas Hõrrak, Niku Kivekäs, Kaupo Komsaare, Radovan Krejci, Adam Kristensson, Lauri Laakso, Ari Laaksonen, W. Richard Leaitch, Heikki Lihavainen, Nikolaos Mihalopoulos, Zoltán Németh, Wei Nie, Colin O'Dowd, Imre Salma, Karine Sellegri, Birgitta Svenningsson, Erik Swietlicki, Peter Tunved, Vidmantas Ulevicius, Ville Vakkari, Marko Vana, Alfred Wiedensohler, Zhijun Wu, Annele Virtanen, and Markku Kulmala
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 18, 14737–14756, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-18-14737-2018, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-18-14737-2018, 2018
Short summary
Short summary
Atmospheric aerosols have diverse effects on air quality, human health, and global climate. One important source of aerosols is their formation via nucleation and growth in the atmosphere. We have analyzed long-term observations of regional new particle formation events around the globe and provide a comprehensive view on the characteristics of this phenomenon in diverse environments. The results are useful in developing more realistic representation of atmospheric aerosols in global models.
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
Short summary
Short summary
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.
Alecia Nickless, Peter J. Rayner, Francois Engelbrecht, Ernst-Günther Brunke, Birgit Erni, and Robert J. Scholes
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 18, 4765–4801, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-18-4765-2018, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-18-4765-2018, 2018
Short summary
Short summary
Carbon dioxide emissions and uptake were estimated for Cape Town, South Africa. We placed two high-precision analysers in lighthouses located on either end of Cape Town (Robben Island and Hangklip). The Cape Point GAW station provided background measurements. We were able to improve the agreement between modelled and observed concentrations, relative to initial estimates provided. This methodology could potentially be scaled up to provide monitoring and verification of city emissions.
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
Short summary
Short summary
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
Short summary
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.
Kgaugelo Euphinia Chiloane, Johan Paul Beukes, Pieter Gideon van Zyl, Petra Maritz, Ville Vakkari, Miroslav Josipovic, Andrew Derick Venter, Kerneels Jaars, Petri Tiitta, Markku Kulmala, Alfred Wiedensohler, Catherine Liousse, Gabisile Vuyisile Mkhatshwa, Avishkar Ramandh, and Lauri Laakso
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 17, 6177–6196, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-17-6177-2017, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-17-6177-2017, 2017
Short summary
Short summary
This paper presents atmospheric black carbon (BC) data collected in South Africa (SA). In general, BC level were higher than in the developed world. At one site, five sources were identified, with household combustion as well as savannah and grassland fires the most significant sources during winter and spring, while coal-fired power stations, pyrometallurgical smelters and traffic contributed year round.
Andrew D. Venter, Pieter G. van Zyl, Johan P. Beukes, Micky Josipovic, Johan Hendriks, Ville Vakkari, and Lauri Laakso
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 17, 4251–4263, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-17-4251-2017, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-17-4251-2017, 2017
Short summary
Short summary
Size-resolved trace metal concentrations were determined at a regional background site impacted by the major pollutant source regions in the interior of South Africa, which include a region holding a large number of pyrometallurgical smelters. ≥70% of trace metal species were in the smaller size fractions, indicating the influence of industrial activities, while the influence of wind-blown dust was reflected in the PM2.5–10 size fraction. Annual average Ni and As exceeded European standards.
Matti Räsänen, Mika Aurela, Ville Vakkari, Johan P. Beukes, Juha-Pekka Tuovinen, Pieter G. Van Zyl, Miroslav Josipovic, Andrew D. Venter, Kerneels Jaars, Stefan J. Siebert, Tuomas Laurila, Janne Rinne, and Lauri Laakso
Biogeosciences, 14, 1039–1054, https://doi.org/10.5194/bg-14-1039-2017, https://doi.org/10.5194/bg-14-1039-2017, 2017
Short summary
Short summary
This study presents measurements of carbon dioxide exchange between the atmosphere and a grazed savanna grassland ecosystem for 3 years. We find that the yearly variation in carbon dioxide balance is largely determined by the changes in the early wet season balance (September to November) and in the mid-growing season balance (December to January).
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
Short summary
Short summary
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
Short summary
Short summary
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.
Kerneels Jaars, Pieter G. van Zyl, Johan P. Beukes, Heidi Hellén, Ville Vakkari, Micky Josipovic, Andrew D. Venter, Matti Räsänen, Leandra Knoetze, Dirk P. Cilliers, Stefan J. Siebert, Markku Kulmala, Janne Rinne, Alex Guenther, Lauri Laakso, and Hannele Hakola
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 16, 15665–15688, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-16-15665-2016, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-16-15665-2016, 2016
Short summary
Short summary
Biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs) – important in tropospheric ozone and secondary organic aerosol formation – were measured at a savannah grassland in South Africa. Results presented are the most extensive for this type of landscape. Compared to other parts of the world, monoterpene levels were similar, while very low isoprene levels led to significantly lower total BVOC levels. BVOC levels were an order of magnitude lower compared to anthropogenic VOC levels measured at Welgegund.
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
Short summary
Short summary
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.
Elina Giannakaki, Pieter G. van Zyl, Detlef Müller, Dimitris Balis, and Mika Komppula
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 16, 8109–8123, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-16-8109-2016, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-16-8109-2016, 2016
Short summary
Short summary
Optical and microphysical properties of different aerosol types over South Africa measured with a multi-wavelength polarization Raman lidar are presented. Aerosol characterization of elevated layers was performed. This study could assist in bridging existing gaps relating to aerosol properties over South Africa.
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.
Holger Baars, Thomas Kanitz, Ronny Engelmann, Dietrich Althausen, Birgit Heese, Mika Komppula, Jana Preißler, Matthias Tesche, Albert Ansmann, Ulla Wandinger, Jae-Hyun Lim, Joon Young Ahn, Iwona S. Stachlewska, Vassilis Amiridis, Eleni Marinou, Patric Seifert, Julian Hofer, Annett Skupin, Florian Schneider, Stephanie Bohlmann, Andreas Foth, Sebastian Bley, Anne Pfüller, Eleni Giannakaki, Heikki Lihavainen, Yrjö Viisanen, Rakesh Kumar Hooda, Sérgio Nepomuceno Pereira, Daniele Bortoli, Frank Wagner, Ina Mattis, Lucja Janicka, Krzysztof M. Markowicz, Peggy Achtert, Paulo Artaxo, Theotonio Pauliquevis, Rodrigo A. F. Souza, Ved Prakesh Sharma, Pieter Gideon van Zyl, Johan Paul Beukes, Junying Sun, Erich G. Rohwer, Ruru Deng, Rodanthi-Elisavet Mamouri, and Felix Zamorano
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 16, 5111–5137, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-16-5111-2016, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-16-5111-2016, 2016
Short summary
Short summary
The findings from more than 10 years of global aerosol lidar measurements with Polly systems are summarized, and a data set of optical properties for specific aerosol types is given. An automated data retrieval algorithm for continuous Polly lidar observations is presented and discussed by means of a Saharan dust advection event in Leipzig, Germany. Finally, a statistic on the vertical aerosol distribution including the seasonal variability at PollyNET locations around the globe is presented.
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
Short summary
Short summary
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.
E. W. Butt, A. Rap, A. Schmidt, C. E. Scott, K. J. Pringle, C. L. Reddington, N. A. D. Richards, M. T. Woodhouse, J. Ramirez-Villegas, H. Yang, V. Vakkari, E. A. Stone, M. Rupakheti, P. S. Praveen, P. G. van Zyl, J. P. Beukes, M. Josipovic, E. J. S. Mitchell, S. M. Sallu, P. M. Forster, and D. V. Spracklen
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 16, 873–905, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-16-873-2016, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-16-873-2016, 2016
Short summary
Short summary
We estimate the impact of residential emissions (cooking and heating) on atmospheric aerosol, human health, and climate. We find large contributions to annual mean ambient PM2.5 in residential sources regions resulting in significant but uncertain global premature mortality when key uncertainties in emission flux are considered. We show that residential emissions exert an uncertain global radiative effect and suggest more work is needed to characterise residential emissions climate importance.
F. Kuik, A. Lauer, J. P. Beukes, P. G. Van Zyl, M. Josipovic, V. Vakkari, L. Laakso, and G. T. Feig
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 15, 8809–8830, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-15-8809-2015, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-15-8809-2015, 2015
Short summary
Short summary
The numerical model WRF-Chem is used to estimate the contribution of anthropogenic emissions to BC, aerosol optical depth and atmospheric heating rates over southern Africa. An evaluation of the model with observational data including long-term BC measurements shows that the basic meteorology is reproduced reasonably well but simulated near-surface BC concentrations are underestimated by up to 50%. It is found that up to 100% of the BC in highly industrialized regions is of anthropogenic origin.
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
Short summary
Short summary
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
Short summary
Short summary
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.
E. Giannakaki, A. Pfüller, K. Korhonen, T. Mielonen, L. Laakso, V. Vakkari, H. Baars, R. Engelmann, J. P. Beukes, P. G. Van Zyl, M. Josipovic, P. Tiitta, K. Chiloane, S. Piketh, H. Lihavainen, K. E. J. Lehtinen, and M. Komppula
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 15, 5429–5442, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-15-5429-2015, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-15-5429-2015, 2015
Short summary
Short summary
In this study we summarize 1 year of Raman lidar observations over South Africa. The analyses of lidar measurements presented here could assist in bridging existing gaps in the knowledge of vertical distribution of aerosols above South Africa, since limited long-term data of this type are available for this region. For the first time, we have been able to cover the full seasonal cycle on geometrical characteristics and optical properties of free tropospheric aerosol layers in the region.
A.-M. Sundström, A. Nikandrova, K. Atlaskina, T. Nieminen, V. Vakkari, L. Laakso, J. P. Beukes, A. Arola, P. G. van Zyl, M. Josipovic, A. D. Venter, K. Jaars, J. J. Pienaar, S. Piketh, A. Wiedensohler, E. K. Chiloane, G. de Leeuw, and M. Kulmala
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 15, 4983–4996, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-15-4983-2015, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-15-4983-2015, 2015
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
Short summary
Short summary
• 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.
J. Backman, A. Virkkula, V. Vakkari, J. P. Beukes, P. G. Van Zyl, M. Josipovic, S. Piketh, P. Tiitta, K. Chiloane, T. Petäjä, M. Kulmala, and L. Laakso
Atmos. Meas. Tech., 7, 4285–4298, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-7-4285-2014, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-7-4285-2014, 2014
K. Tsigaridis, N. Daskalakis, M. Kanakidou, P. J. Adams, P. Artaxo, R. Bahadur, Y. Balkanski, S. E. Bauer, N. Bellouin, A. Benedetti, T. Bergman, T. K. Berntsen, J. P. Beukes, H. Bian, K. S. Carslaw, M. Chin, G. Curci, T. Diehl, R. C. Easter, S. J. Ghan, S. L. Gong, A. Hodzic, C. R. Hoyle, T. Iversen, S. Jathar, J. L. Jimenez, J. W. Kaiser, A. Kirkevåg, D. Koch, H. Kokkola, Y. H Lee, G. Lin, X. Liu, G. Luo, X. Ma, G. W. Mann, N. Mihalopoulos, J.-J. Morcrette, J.-F. Müller, G. Myhre, S. Myriokefalitakis, N. L. Ng, D. O'Donnell, J. E. Penner, L. Pozzoli, K. J. Pringle, L. M. Russell, M. Schulz, J. Sciare, Ø. Seland, D. T. Shindell, S. Sillman, R. B. Skeie, D. Spracklen, T. Stavrakou, S. D. Steenrod, T. Takemura, P. Tiitta, S. Tilmes, H. Tost, T. van Noije, P. G. van Zyl, K. von Salzen, F. Yu, Z. Wang, Z. Wang, R. A. Zaveri, H. Zhang, K. Zhang, Q. Zhang, and X. Zhang
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 14, 10845–10895, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-14-10845-2014, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-14-10845-2014, 2014
K. Jaars, J. P. Beukes, P. G. van Zyl, A. D. Venter, M. Josipovic, J. J. Pienaar, V. Vakkari, H. Aaltonen, H. Laakso, M. Kulmala, P. Tiitta, A. Guenther, H. Hellén, L. Laakso, and H. Hakola
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 14, 7075–7089, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-14-7075-2014, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-14-7075-2014, 2014
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
K. Korhonen, E. Giannakaki, T. Mielonen, A. Pfüller, L. Laakso, V. Vakkari, H. Baars, R. Engelmann, J. P. Beukes, P. G. Van Zyl, A. Ramandh, L. Ntsangwane, M. Josipovic, P. Tiitta, G. Fourie, I. Ngwana, K. Chiloane, and M. Komppula
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 14, 4263–4278, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-14-4263-2014, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-14-4263-2014, 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
P. Tiitta, V. Vakkari, P. Croteau, J. P. Beukes, P. G. van Zyl, M. Josipovic, A. D. Venter, K. Jaars, J. J. Pienaar, N. L. Ng, M. R. Canagaratna, J. T. Jayne, V.-M. Kerminen, H. Kokkola, M. Kulmala, A. Laaksonen, D. R. Worsnop, and L. Laakso
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 14, 1909–1927, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-14-1909-2014, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-14-1909-2014, 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
F. Slemr, E.-G. Brunke, S. Whittlestone, W. Zahorowski, R. Ebinghaus, H. H. Kock, and C. Labuschagne
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 13, 6421–6428, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-13-6421-2013, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-13-6421-2013, 2013
A. Hirsikko, V. Vakkari, P. Tiitta, J. Hatakka, V.-M. Kerminen, A.-M. Sundström, J. P. Beukes, H. E. Manninen, M. Kulmala, and L. Laakso
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 13, 5523–5532, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-13-5523-2013, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-13-5523-2013, 2013
V. Vakkari, J. P. Beukes, H. Laakso, D. Mabaso, J. J. Pienaar, M. Kulmala, and L. Laakso
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 13, 1751–1770, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-13-1751-2013, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-13-1751-2013, 2013
A.-P. Hyvärinen, V. Vakkari, L. Laakso, R. K. Hooda, V. P. Sharma, T. S. Panwar, J. P. Beukes, P. G. van Zyl, M. Josipovic, R. M. Garland, M. O. Andreae, U. Pöschl, and A. Petzold
Atmos. Meas. Tech., 6, 81–90, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-6-81-2013, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-6-81-2013, 2013
Related subject area
Subject: Gases | Research Activity: Field Measurements | Altitude Range: Troposphere | Science Focus: Chemistry (chemical composition and reactions)
Contribution of cooking emissions to the urban volatile organic compounds in Las Vegas, NV
Reanalysis of NOAA H2 observations: implications for the H2 budget
A large role of missing volatile organic compound reactivity from anthropogenic emissions in ozone pollution regulation
Measurement report: Insights into the chemical composition and origin of molecular clusters and potential precursor molecules present in the free troposphere over the southern Indian Ocean: observations from the Maïdo Observatory (2150 m a.s.l., Réunion)
Production of oxygenated volatile organic compounds from the ozonolysis of coastal seawater
Comment on “Transport of substantial stratospheric ozone to the surface by a dying typhoon and shallow convection” by Chen et al. (2022)
Observations of cyanogen bromide (BrCN) in the global troposphere and their relation to polar surface O3 destruction
Individual coal mine methane emissions constrained by eddy covariance measurements: low bias and missing sources
Measurement report: Observations of ground-level ozone concentration gradients perpendicular to the Lake Ontario shoreline
Measurement report: The Palau Atmospheric Observatory and its ozonesonde record – continuous monitoring of tropospheric composition and dynamics in the tropical western Pacific
Quantifying SO2 oxidation pathways to atmospheric sulfate using stable sulfur and oxygen isotopes: laboratory simulation and field observation
Influences of downward transport and photochemistry on surface ozone over East Antarctica during austral summer: in situ observations and model simulations
Iodine oxoacids and their roles in sub-3 nm particle growth in polluted urban environments
Intensive photochemical oxidation in the marine atmosphere: evidence from direct radical measurements
Diurnal variations in oxygen and nitrogen isotopes of atmospheric nitrogen dioxide and nitrate: implications for tracing NOx oxidation pathways and emission sources
Measurement report: Method for evaluating CO2 emissions from a cement plant using atmospheric δ(O2 ∕ N2) and CO2 measurements and its implication for future detection of CO2 capture signals
Aircraft-based mass balance estimate of methane emissions from offshore gas facilities in the southern North Sea
Parameterizations of US wildfire and prescribed fire emission ratios and emission factors based on FIREX-AQ aircraft measurements
Measurement report: Atmospheric nitrate radical chemistry in the South China Sea influenced by the urban outflow of the Pearl River Delta
The interhemispheric gradient of SF6 in the upper troposphere
Weather regimes and the related atmospheric composition at a Pyrenean observatory characterized by hierarchical clustering of a 5-year data set
Tropospheric bromine monoxide vertical profiles retrieved across the Alaskan Arctic in springtime
Source apportionment of methane emissions from the Upper Silesian Coal Basin using isotopic signatures
Measurement report: Exchange fluxes of HONO over agricultural fields in the North China Plain
HONO chemistry at a suburban site during the EXPLORE-YRD campaign in 2018: formation mechanisms and impacts on O3 production
Evaluation of modelled climatologies of O3, CO, water vapour and NOy in the upper troposphere–lower stratosphere using regular in situ observations by passenger aircraft
Photochemical ageing of aerosols contributes significantly to the production of atmospheric formic acid
Nitrous acid budgets in the coastal atmosphere: potential daytime marine sources
Sources of organic gases and aerosol particles and their roles in nighttime particle growth at a rural forested site in southwest Germany
Undetected biogenic volatile organic compounds from Norway spruce drive total ozone reactivity measurements
Quantification of fossil fuel CO2 from combined CO, δ13CO2 and Δ14CO2 observations
Radical chemistry and ozone production at a UK coastal receptor site
Sources and long-term variability of carbon monoxide at Mount Kenya and in Nairobi
Shipping and algae emissions have a major impact on ambient air mixing ratios of NMHCs and methanethiol on Utö island in the Baltic Sea
Opinion: Strengthening Research in the Global South: Atmospheric Science Opportunities in South America and Africa
Measurement report: Airborne measurements of NOx fluxes over Los Angeles during the RECAP-CA 2021 campaign
Influence of anthropogenic emissions on the composition of highly oxygenated organic molecules in Helsinki: a street canyon and urban background station comparison
Changes in surface ozone in South Korea on diurnal to decadal timescales for the period of 2001–2021
Characterization of the nitrogen stable isotope composition (δ15N) of ship-emitted NOx
Volatile organic compound fluxes in the agricultural San Joaquin Valley – spatial distribution, source attribution, and inventory comparison
Exploring the amplified role of HCHO in the formation of HMS and O3 during the co-occurring PM2.5 and O3 pollution in a coastal city of southeast China
High potential for CH4 emission mitigation from oil infrastructure in one of EU's major production regions
Measurement report: Source apportionment and environmental impacts of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in Lhasa, a highland city in China
OH, HO2, and RO2 radical chemistry in a rural forest environment: measurements, model comparisons, and evidence of a missing radical sink
The atmospheric fate of 1,2-dibromo-4-(1,2-dibromoethyl)cyclohexane (TBECH): spatial patterns, seasonal variability, and deposition to Canadian coastal regions
A single-point modeling approach for the intercomparison and evaluation of ozone dry deposition across chemical transport models (Activity 2 of AQMEII4)
Direct observations of NOx emissions over the San Joaquin Valley using airborne flux measurements during RECAP-CA 2021 field campaign
Surface snow bromide and nitrate at Eureka, Canada in early spring and implications for polar boundary layer chemistry
Trends and seasonal variability in ammonia across major biomes in western and central Africa inferred from long-term series of ground-based and satellite measurements
A rise in HFC-23 emissions from eastern Asia since 2015
Matthew M. Coggon, Chelsea E. Stockwell, Lu Xu, Jeff Peischl, Jessica B. Gilman, Aaron Lamplugh, Henry J. Bowman, Kenneth Aikin, Colin Harkins, Qindan Zhu, Rebecca H. Schwantes, Jian He, Meng Li, Karl Seltzer, Brian McDonald, and Carsten Warneke
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 24, 4289–4304, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-4289-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-4289-2024, 2024
Short summary
Short summary
Residential and commercial cooking emits pollutants that degrade air quality. Here, ambient observations show that cooking is an important contributor to anthropogenic volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted in Las Vegas, NV. These emissions are not fully presented in air quality models, and more work may be needed to quantify emissions from important sources, such as commercial restaurants.
Fabien Paulot, Gabrielle Pétron, Andrew M. Crotwell, and Matteo B. Bertagni
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 24, 4217–4229, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-4217-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-4217-2024, 2024
Short summary
Short summary
New data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration show that hydrogen (H2) concentrations increased from 2010 to 2019, which is consistent with the simulated increase in H2 photochemical production (mainly from methane). But this cannot be reconciled with the expected decrease (increase) in H2 anthropogenic emissions (soil deposition) in the same period. This shows gaps in our knowledge of the H2 biogeochemical cycle that must be resolved to quantify the impact of higher H2 usage.
Wenjie Wang, Bin Yuan, Hang Su, Yafang Cheng, Jipeng Qi, Sihang Wang, Wei Song, Xinming Wang, Chaoyang Xue, Chaoqun Ma, Fengxia Bao, Hongli Wang, Shengrong Lou, and Min Shao
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 24, 4017–4027, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-4017-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-4017-2024, 2024
Short summary
Short summary
This study investigates the important role of unmeasured volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in ozone formation. Based on results in a megacity of China, we show that unmeasured VOCs can contribute significantly to ozone fomation and also influence the determination of ozone control strategy. Our results show that these unmeasured VOCs are mainly from human sources.
Romain Salignat, Matti Rissanen, Siddharth Iyer, Jean-Luc Baray, Pierre Tulet, Jean-Marc Metzger, Jérôme Brioude, Karine Sellegri, and Clémence Rose
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 24, 3785–3812, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-3785-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-3785-2024, 2024
Short summary
Short summary
Using mass spectrometry data collected at the Maïdo Observatory (2160 m a.s.l., Réunion), we provide the first detailed analysis of molecular cluster chemical composition specifically in the marine free troposphere. The abundance of the identified species is related both to in situ meteorological parameters and air mass history, which also provide insight into their origin. Our work makes an important contribution to documenting the chemistry and physics of the marine free troposphere.
Delaney B. Kilgour, Gordon A. Novak, Megan S. Claflin, Brian M. Lerner, and Timothy H. Bertram
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 24, 3729–3742, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-3729-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-3729-2024, 2024
Short summary
Short summary
Laboratory experiments with seawater mimics suggest ozone deposition to the surface ocean can be a source of reactive carbon to the marine atmosphere. We conduct both field and laboratory measurements to assess abiotic VOC composition and yields from ozonolysis of real surface seawater. We show that C5–C11 aldehydes contribute to the observed VOC emission flux. We estimate that VOCs generated by the ozonolysis of surface seawater are competitive with biological VOC production and emission.
Xiangdong Zheng, Wen Yang, Yuting Sun, Chunmei Geng, Yingying Liu, and Xiaobin Xu
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 24, 3759–3768, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-3759-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-3759-2024, 2024
Short summary
Short summary
Chen et al. (2022) attributed the nocturnal ozone enhancement (NOE) during the night of 31 July 2021 in the North China Plain (NCP) to "the direct stratospheric intrusion to reach the surface". We analyzed in situ data from the NCP. Our results do not suggest that there was a significant impact from the stratosphere on surface ozone during the NOE. We argue that the NOE was not caused by stratospheric intrusion but originated from fresh photochemical production in the lower troposphere.
James M. Roberts, Siyuan Wang, Patrick R. Veres, J. Andrew Neuman, Michael A. Robinson, Ilann Bourgeois, Jeff Peischl, Thomas B. Ryerson, Chelsea R. Thompson, Hannah M. Allen, John D. Crounse, Paul O. Wennberg, Samuel R. Hall, Kirk Ullmann, Simone Meinardi, Isobel J. Simpson, and Donald Blake
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 24, 3421–3443, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-3421-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-3421-2024, 2024
Short summary
Short summary
We measured cyanogen bromide (BrCN) in the troposphere for the first time. BrCN is a product of the same active bromine chemistry that destroys ozone and removes mercury in polar surface environments and is a previously unrecognized sink for active Br compounds. BrCN has an apparent lifetime against heterogeneous loss in the range 1–10 d, so it serves as a cumulative marker of Br-radical chemistry. Accounting for BrCN chemistry is an important part of understanding polar Br cycling.
Kai Qin, Wei Hu, Qin He, Fan Lu, and Jason Blake Cohen
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 24, 3009–3028, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-3009-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-3009-2024, 2024
Short summary
Short summary
We compute CH4 emissions and uncertainty on a mine-by-mine basis, including underground, overground, and abandoned mines. Mine-by-mine gas and flux data and 30 min observations from a flux tower located next to a mine shaft are integrated. The observed variability and bias correction are propagated over the emissions dataset, demonstrating that daily observations may not cover the range of variability. Comparisons show both an emissions magnitude and spatial mismatch with current inventories.
Yao Yan Huang and D. James Donaldson
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 24, 2387–2398, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-2387-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-2387-2024, 2024
Short summary
Short summary
Ground-level ozone interacts at the lake–land boundary; this is important to our understanding and modelling of atmospheric chemistry and air pollution in the lower atmosphere. We show that a steep ozone gradient occurs year-round moving inland up to 1 km from the lake and that this gradient is influenced by seasonal factors on the local land environment, where more rural areas are more greatly affected seasonally.
Katrin Müller, Jordis S. Tradowsky, Peter von der Gathen, Christoph Ritter, Sharon Patris, Justus Notholt, and Markus Rex
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 24, 2169–2193, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-2169-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-2169-2024, 2024
Short summary
Short summary
The Palau Atmospheric Observatory is introduced as an ideal site to detect changes in atmospheric composition and dynamics above the remote tropical western Pacific. We focus on the ozone sounding program from 2016–2021, including El Niño 2016. The year-round high convective activity is reflected in dominant low tropospheric ozone and high relative humidity. Their seasonal distributions are unique compared to other tropical sites and are modulated by the Intertropical Convergence Zone.
Ziyan Guo, Keding Lu, Pengxiang Qiu, Mingyi Xu, and Zhaobing Guo
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 24, 2195–2205, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-2195-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-2195-2024, 2024
Short summary
Short summary
The formation of secondary sulfate needs to be further explored. In this work, we simultaneously measured sulfur and oxygen isotopic compositions to gain an increased understanding of specific sulfate formation processes. The results indicated that secondary sulfate was mainly ascribed to SO2 homogeneous oxidation by OH radicals and heterogeneous oxidation by H2O2 and Fe3+ / O2. This study is favourable for deeply investigating the sulfur cycle in the atmosphere.
Imran A. Girach, Narendra Ojha, Prabha R. Nair, Kandula V. Subrahmanyam, Neelakantan Koushik, Mohammed M. Nazeer, Nadimpally Kiran Kumar, Surendran Nair Suresh Babu, Jos Lelieveld, and Andrea Pozzer
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 24, 1979–1995, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-1979-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-1979-2024, 2024
Short summary
Short summary
We investigate surface ozone variability in East Antarctica based on measurements and EMAC global model simulations during austral summer. Nearly half of the surface ozone is found to be of stratospheric origin. The east coast of Antarctica acts as a stronger sink of ozone than surrounding regions. Photochemical loss of ozone is counterbalanced by downward transport of ozone. The study highlights the intertwined role of chemistry and dynamics in governing ozone variations over East Antarctica.
Ying Zhang, Duzitian Li, Xu-Cheng He, Wei Nie, Chenjuan Deng, Runlong Cai, Yuliang Liu, Yishuo Guo, Chong Liu, Yiran Li, Liangduo Chen, Yuanyuan Li, Chenjie Hua, Tingyu Liu, Zongcheng Wang, Jiali Xie, Lei Wang, Tuukka Petäjä, Federico Bianchi, Ximeng Qi, Xuguang Chi, Pauli Paasonen, Yongchun Liu, Chao Yan, Jingkun Jiang, Aijun Ding, and Markku Kulmala
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 24, 1873–1893, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-1873-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-1873-2024, 2024
Short summary
Short summary
This study conducts a long-term observation of gaseous iodine oxoacids in two Chinese megacities, revealing their ubiquitous presence with peak concentrations (up to 0.1 pptv) in summer. Our analysis suggests a mix of terrestrial and marine sources for iodine. Additionally, iodic acid is identified as a notable contributor to sub-3 nm particle growth and particle survival probability.
Guoxian Zhang, Renzhi Hu, Pinhua Xie, Changjin Hu, Xiaoyan Liu, Liujun Zhong, Haotian Cai, Bo Zhu, Shiyong Xia, Xiaofeng Huang, Xin Li, and Wenqing Liu
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 24, 1825–1839, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-1825-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-1825-2024, 2024
Short summary
Short summary
Comprehensive observation of HOx radicals was conducted at a coastal site in the Pearl River Delta. Radical chemistry was influenced by different air masses in a time-dependent way. Land mass promotes a more active photochemical process, with daily averages of 7.1 × 106 and 5.2 × 108 cm−3 for OH and HO2 respectively. The rapid oxidation process was accompanied by a higher diurnal HONO concentration, which influences the ozone-sensitive system and eventually magnifies the background ozone.
Sarah Albertin, Joël Savarino, Slimane Bekki, Albane Barbero, Roberto Grilli, Quentin Fournier, Irène Ventrillard, Nicolas Caillon, and Kathy Law
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 24, 1361–1388, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-1361-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-1361-2024, 2024
Short summary
Short summary
This study reports the first simultaneous records of oxygen (Δ17O) and nitrogen (δ15N) isotopes in nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and nitrate (NO3−). These data are combined with atmospheric observations to explore sub-daily N reactive chemistry and quantify N fractionation effects in an Alpine winter city. The results highlight the necessity of using Δ17O and δ15N in both NO2 and NO3− to avoid biased estimations of NOx sources and fates from NO3− isotopic records in urban winter environments.
Shigeyuki Ishidoya, Kazuhiro Tsuboi, Hiroaki Kondo, Kentaro Ishijima, Nobuyuki Aoki, Hidekazu Matsueda, and Kazuyuki Saito
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 24, 1059–1077, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-1059-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-1059-2024, 2024
Short summary
Short summary
A method evaluating techniques for carbon neutrality, such as carbon capture and storage (CCS), is important. This study presents a method to evaluate CO2 emissions from a cement plant based on atmospheric O2 and CO2 measurements. The method will also be useful for evaluating CO2 capture from flue gas at CCS plants, since the plants remove CO2 from the atmosphere without causing any O2 changes, just as cement plants do, differing only in the direction of CO2 exchange with the atmosphere.
Magdalena Pühl, Anke Roiger, Alina Fiehn, Alan M. Gorchov Negron, Eric A. Kort, Stefan Schwietzke, Ignacio Pisso, Amy Foulds, James Lee, James L. France, Anna E. Jones, Dave Lowry, Rebecca E. Fisher, Langwen Huang, Jacob Shaw, Prudence Bateson, Stephen Andrews, Stuart Young, Pamela Dominutti, Tom Lachlan-Cope, Alexandra Weiss, and Grant Allen
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 24, 1005–1024, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-1005-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-1005-2024, 2024
Short summary
Short summary
In April–May 2019 we carried out an airborne field campaign in the southern North Sea with the aim of studying methane emissions of offshore gas installations. We determined methane emissions from elevated methane measured downstream of the sampled installations. We compare our measured methane emissions with estimated methane emissions from national and global annual inventories. As a result, we find inconsistencies of inventories and large discrepancies between measurements and inventories.
Georgios I. Gkatzelis, Matthew M. Coggon, Chelsea E. Stockwell, Rebecca S. Hornbrook, Hannah Allen, Eric C. Apel, Megan M. Bela, Donald R. Blake, Ilann Bourgeois, Steven S. Brown, Pedro Campuzano-Jost, Jason M. St. Clair, James H. Crawford, John D. Crounse, Douglas A. Day, Joshua P. DiGangi, Glenn S. Diskin, Alan Fried, Jessica B. Gilman, Hongyu Guo, Johnathan W. Hair, Hannah S. Halliday, Thomas F. Hanisco, Reem Hannun, Alan Hills, L. Gregory Huey, Jose L. Jimenez, Joseph M. Katich, Aaron Lamplugh, Young Ro Lee, Jin Liao, Jakob Lindaas, Stuart A. McKeen, Tomas Mikoviny, Benjamin A. Nault, J. Andrew Neuman, John B. Nowak, Demetrios Pagonis, Jeff Peischl, Anne E. Perring, Felix Piel, Pamela S. Rickly, Michael A. Robinson, Andrew W. Rollins, Thomas B. Ryerson, Melinda K. Schueneman, Rebecca H. Schwantes, Joshua P. Schwarz, Kanako Sekimoto, Vanessa Selimovic, Taylor Shingler, David J. Tanner, Laura Tomsche, Krystal T. Vasquez, Patrick R. Veres, Rebecca Washenfelder, Petter Weibring, Paul O. Wennberg, Armin Wisthaler, Glenn M. Wolfe, Caroline C. Womack, Lu Xu, Katherine Ball, Robert J. Yokelson, and Carsten Warneke
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 24, 929–956, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-929-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-929-2024, 2024
Short summary
Short summary
This study reports emissions of gases and particles from wildfires. These emissions are related to chemical proxies that can be measured by satellite and incorporated into models to improve predictions of wildfire impacts on air quality and climate.
Jie Wang, Haichao Wang, Yee Jun Tham, Lili Ming, Zelong Zheng, Guizhen Fang, Cuizhi Sun, Zhenhao Ling, Jun Zhao, and Shaojia Fan
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 24, 977–992, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-977-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-977-2024, 2024
Short summary
Short summary
Many works report NO3 chemistry in inland regions while less target marine regions. We measured N2O5 and related species on a typical island and found intensive nighttime chemistry and rapid NO3 loss. NO contributed significantly to NO3 loss despite its sub-ppbv level, suggesting nocturnal NO3 reactions would be largely enhanced once free from NO emissions in the open ocean. This highlights the strong influences of urban outflow on downward marine areas in terms of nighttime chemistry.
Tanja J. Schuck, Johannes Degen, Eric Hintsa, Peter Hoor, Markus Jesswein, Timo Keber, Daniel Kunkel, Fred Moore, Florian Obersteiner, Matt Rigby, Thomas Wagenhäuser, Luke M. Western, Andreas Zahn, and Andreas Engel
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 24, 689–705, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-689-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-689-2024, 2024
Short summary
Short summary
We study the interhemispheric gradient of sulfur hexafluoride (SF6), a strong long-lived greenhouse gas. Its emissions are stronger in the Northern Hemisphere; therefore, mixing ratios in the Southern Hemisphere lag behind. Comparing the observations to a box model, the model predicts air in the Southern Hemisphere to be older. For a better agreement, the emissions used as model input need to be increased (and their spatial pattern changed), and we need to modify north–south transport.
Jérémy Gueffier, François Gheusi, Marie Lothon, Véronique Pont, Alban Philibert, Fabienne Lohou, Solène Derrien, Yannick Bezombes, Gilles Athier, Yves Meyerfeld, Antoine Vial, and Emmanuel Leclerc
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 24, 287–316, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-287-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-287-2024, 2024
Short summary
Short summary
This study investigates the link between weather regime and atmospheric composition at a Pyrenean observatory. Five years of meteorological data were synchronized on a daily basis and then, using a clustering method, separated into six groups of observation days, with most showing marked characteristics of different weather regimes (fair and disturbed weather, winter windstorms, foehn). Statistical differences in gas and particle concentrations appeared between the groups and are discussed.
Nathaniel Brockway, Peter K. Peterson, Katja Bigge, Kristian D. Hajny, Paul B. Shepson, Kerri A. Pratt, Jose D. Fuentes, Tim Starn, Robert Kaeser, Brian H. Stirm, and William R. Simpson
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 24, 23–40, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-23-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-23-2024, 2024
Short summary
Short summary
Bromine monoxide (BrO) strongly affects atmospheric chemistry in the springtime Arctic, yet there are still many uncertainties around its sources and recycling, particularly in the context of a rapidly changing Arctic. In this study, we observed BrO as a function of altitude above the Alaskan Arctic. We found that BrO was often most concentrated near the ground, confirming the ability of snow to produce and recycle reactive bromine, and identified four common vertical distributions of BrO.
Alina Fiehn, Maximilian Eckl, Julian Kostinek, Michał Gałkowski, Christoph Gerbig, Michael Rothe, Thomas Röckmann, Malika Menoud, Hossein Maazallahi, Martina Schmidt, Piotr Korbeń, Jarosław Neçki, Mila Stanisavljević, Justyna Swolkień, Andreas Fix, and Anke Roiger
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 23, 15749–15765, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-15749-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-15749-2023, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
During the CoMet mission in the Upper Silesian Coal Basin (USCB) ground-based and airborne air samples were taken and analyzed for the isotopic composition of CH4 to derive the mean signature of the USCB and source signatures of individual coal mines. Using δ2H signatures, the biogenic emissions from the USCB account for 15 %–50 % of total emissions, which is underestimated in common emission inventories. This demonstrates the importance of δ2H-CH4 observations for methane source apportionment.
Yifei Song, Chaoyang Xue, Yuanyuan Zhang, Pengfei Liu, Fengxia Bao, Xuran Li, and Yujing Mu
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 23, 15733–15747, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-15733-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-15733-2023, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
We present measurements of HONO flux and related parameters over an agricultural field during a whole growing season of summer maize. This dataset allows studies on the characteristics and influencing factors of soil HONO emissions, determination of HONO emission factors, estimation of total HONO emissions at a national scale, and the discussion on future environmental policies in terms of mitigating regional air pollution.
Can Ye, Keding Lu, Xuefei Ma, Wanyi Qiu, Shule Li, Xinping Yang, Chaoyang Xue, Tianyu Zhai, Yuhan Liu, Xuan Li, Yang Li, Haichao Wang, Zhaofeng Tan, Xiaorui Chen, Huabin Dong, Limin Zeng, Min Hu, and Yuanhang Zhang
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 23, 15455–15472, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-15455-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-15455-2023, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
In this study, combining comprehensive field measurements and a box model, we found NO2 conversion on the ground surface was the most important source for HONO production among the proposed heterogeneous and gas-phase HONO sources. In addition, HONO was found to evidently enhance O3 production and aggravate O3 pollution in summer in China. Our study improved our understanding of the relative importance of different HONO sources and the crucial role of HONO in O3 formation in polluted areas.
Yann Cohen, Didier Hauglustaine, Bastien Sauvage, Susanne Rohs, Patrick Konjari, Ulrich Bundke, Andreas Petzold, Valérie Thouret, Andreas Zahn, and Helmut Ziereis
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 23, 14973–15009, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-14973-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-14973-2023, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
The upper troposphere–lower stratosphere (UTLS) is a key region regarding the lower atmospheric composition. This study consists of a comprehensive evaluation of an up-to-date chemistry–climate model in this layer, using regular in situ measurements based on passenger aircraft. For this purpose, a specific software (Interpol-IAGOS) has been updated and made publicly available. The model reproduces the carbon monoxide peaks due to biomass burning over the continental tropics particularly well.
Yifan Jiang, Men Xia, Zhe Wang, Penggang Zheng, Yi Chen, and Tao Wang
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 23, 14813–14828, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-14813-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-14813-2023, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
This study provides the first estimate of high rates of formic acid (HCOOH) production from the photochemical aging of real ambient particles and demonstrates the potential importance of this pathway in the formation of HCOOH under ambient conditions. Incorporating this pathway significantly improved the performance of a widely used chemical model. Our solution irradiation experiments demonstrated the importance of nitrate photolysis in HCOOH production via the production of oxidants.
Xuelian Zhong, Hengqing Shen, Min Zhao, Ji Zhang, Yue Sun, Yuhong Liu, Yingnan Zhang, Ye Shan, Hongyong Li, Jiangshan Mu, Yu Yang, Yanqiu Nie, Jinghao Tang, Can Dong, Xinfeng Wang, Yujiao Zhu, Mingzhi Guo, Wenxing Wang, and Likun Xue
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 23, 14761–14778, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-14761-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-14761-2023, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
Nitrous acid (HONO) is vital for atmospheric oxidation. In research at Mount Lao, China, models revealed a significant unidentified marine HONO source. Overlooking this could skew our understanding of air quality and climate change. This finding emphasizes HONO’s importance in the coastal atmosphere, uncovering previously unnoticed interactions.
Junwei Song, Harald Saathoff, Feng Jiang, Linyu Gao, Hengheng Zhang, and Thomas Leisner
EGUsphere, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2023-2255, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2023-2255, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
This study presents the concurrent online measurements of organic gas and particles (VOCs and OA) at a forest site in summer. Both VOCs and OA were largely contributed by oxygenated organic compounds. Semi-volatile oxygenated OA and organic nitrate formed from monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes contribute significantly to nighttime particle growth. The results help to understand the causes of nighttime particle growth regularly observed in summer in the central European rural forested environments.
Steven Job Thomas, Toni Tykkä, Heidi Hellén, Federico Bianchi, and Arnaud P. Praplan
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 23, 14627–14642, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-14627-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-14627-2023, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
The study employed total ozone reactivity to demonstrate how emissions of Norway spruce readily react with ozone and could be a major ozone sink, particularly under stress. Additionally, this approach provided insight into the limitations of current analytical techniques that measure the compounds present or emitted into the atmosphere. The study shows how the technique used was not enough to measure all compounds emitted, and this could potentially underestimate various atmospheric processes.
Jinsol Kim, John B. Miller, Charles E. Miller, Scott J. Lehman, Sylvia E. Michel, Vineet Yadav, Nick E. Rollins, and William M. Berelson
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 23, 14425–14436, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-14425-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-14425-2023, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
In this study, we present the partitioning of CO2 signals from biogenic, petroleum and natural gas sources by combining CO, 13CO2 and 14CO2 measurements. Using measurements from flask air samples at three sites in the greater Los Angeles region, we find larger and positive contributions of biogenic signals in winter and smaller and negative contributions in summer. The largest contribution of natural gas combustion generally occurs in summer.
Robert Woodward-Massey, Roberto Sommariva, Lisa K. Whalley, Danny R. Cryer, Trevor Ingham, William J. Bloss, Stephen M. Ball, Sam Cox, James D. Lee, Chris P. Reed, Leigh R. Crilley, Louisa J. Kramer, Brian J. Bandy, Grant L. Forster, Claire E. Reeves, Paul S. Monks, and Dwayne E. Heard
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 23, 14393–14424, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-14393-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-14393-2023, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
Measurements of OH, HO2 and RO2 radicals and also OH reactivity were made at a UK coastal site and compared to calculations from a constrained box model utilising the Master Chemical Mechanism. The model agreement displayed a strong dependence on the NO concentration. An experimental budget analysis for OH, HO2, RO2 and total ROx demonstrated significant imbalances between HO2 and RO2 production rates. Ozone production rates were calculated from measured radicals and compared to modelled values.
Leonard Kirago, Örjan Gustafsson, Samuel Mwaniki Gaita, Sophie L. Haslett, Michael J. Gatari, Maria Elena Popa, Thomas Röckmann, Christoph Zellweger, Martin Steinbacher, Jörg Klausen, Christian Félix, David Njiru, and August Andersson
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 23, 14349–14357, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-14349-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-14349-2023, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
This study provides ground-observational evidence that supports earlier suggestions that savanna fires are the main emitters and modulators of carbon monoxide gas in Africa. Using isotope-based techniques, the study has shown that about two-thirds of this gas is emitted from savanna fires, while for urban areas, in this case Nairobi, primary sources approach 100 %. The latter has implications for air quality policy, suggesting primary emissions such as traffic should be targeted.
Heidi Hellén, Rostislav Kouznetsov, Kaisa Kraft, Jukka Seppälä, Mika Vestenius, Jukka-Pekka Jalkanen, Lauri Laakso, and Hannele Hakola
EGUsphere, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2023-2323, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2023-2323, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
Mixing ratios of C2-C5 NMHCs and methanethiol were measured on an island in Baltic Sea using an in-situ gas chromatograph. Shipping emissions were found to be an important source of ethene, ethyne, propene and benzene. High summertime mixing ratios of methanethiol and dependence of mixing ratios on sea water temperature and height indicated the biogenic origin possibly from phytoplankton or macroalgae. These emissions may have strong impacts on SO2 production and new particle formation.
Rebecca M. Garland, Katye E. Altieri, Laura Dawidowski, Laura Gallardo, Aderiana Mbandi, Nestor Y. Rojas, and N'datchoh E. Touré
EGUsphere, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2023-2566, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2023-2566, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
In this opinion, we focus on two geographical areas in the Global South to discuss some common challenges and constraints, with a focus on our strengths in atmospheric science research. It is these strengths, we believe, that highlight the critical role of Global South researchers in the future of atmospheric science research.
Clara M. Nussbaumer, Bryan K. Place, Qindan Zhu, Eva Y. Pfannerstill, Paul Wooldridge, Benjamin C. Schulze, Caleb Arata, Ryan Ward, Anthony Bucholtz, John H. Seinfeld, Allen H. Goldstein, and Ronald C. Cohen
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 23, 13015–13028, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-13015-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-13015-2023, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
NOx is a precursor to hazardous tropospheric ozone and can be emitted from various anthropogenic sources. It is important to quantify NOx emissions in urban environments to improve the local air quality, which still remains a challenge, as sources are heterogeneous in space and time. In this study, we calculate NOx emissions over Los Angeles, based on aircraft measurements in June 2021, and compare them to a local emission inventory, which we find mostly overpredicts the measured values.
Magdalena Okuljar, Olga Garmash, Miska Olin, Joni Kalliokoski, Hilkka Timonen, Jarkko V. Niemi, Pauli Paasonen, Jenni Kontkanen, Yanjun Zhang, Heidi Hellén, Heino Kuuluvainen, Minna Aurela, Hanna E. Manninen, Mikko Sipilä, Topi Rönkkö, Tuukka Petäjä, Markku Kulmala, Miikka Dal Maso, and Mikael Ehn
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 23, 12965–12983, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-12965-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-12965-2023, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
Highly oxygenated organic molecules (HOMs) form secondary organic aerosol that affects air quality and health. In this study, we demonstrate that in a moderately polluted city with abundant vegetation, the composition of HOMs is largely controlled by the effect of NOx on the biogenic volatile organic compound oxidation. Comparing the results from two nearby stations, we show that HOM composition and formation pathways can change considerably within small distances in urban environments.
Si-Wan Kim, Kyoung-Min Kim, Yujoo Jeong, Seunghwan Seo, Yeonsu Park, and Jeongyeon Kim
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 23, 12867–12886, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-12867-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-12867-2023, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
Surface ozone is a pollutant regulated for public health. This study derived surface ozone trends over South Korea from 2001 to 2021 and highlighted that South Korea has been a nonattainment area since 2010, based on the US EPA standard. However, the occurrences of high ozone condition decreased in spring during the COVID-19 pandemic, partly due to large reductions of ozone precursor concentrations in China and South Korea.
Zeyu Sun, Zheng Zong, Yang Tan, Chongguo Tian, Zeyu Liu, Fan Zhang, Rong Sun, Yingjun Chen, Jun Li, and Gan Zhang
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 23, 12851–12865, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-12851-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-12851-2023, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
This is the first report of ship-emitted nitrogen stable isotope composition (δ15N) of nitrogen oxides (NOx). The results showed that δ15N–NOx from ships was −18.5 ± 10.9 ‰ and increased monotonically with tightening emission regulations. The selective catalytic reduction system was the most vital factor. The temporal variation in δ15N–NOx was evaluated and can be used to select suitable δ15N–NOx for a more accurate assessment of the contribution of ship-emitted exhaust to atmospheric NOx.
Eva Y. Pfannerstill, Caleb Arata, Qindan Zhu, Benjamin C. Schulze, Roy Woods, John H. Seinfeld, Anthony Bucholtz, Ronald C. Cohen, and Allen H. Goldstein
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 23, 12753–12780, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-12753-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-12753-2023, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
The San Joaquin Valley is an agricultural area with poor air quality. Organic gases drive the formation of hazardous air pollutants. Agricultural emissions of these gases are not well understood and have rarely been quantified at landscape scale. By combining aircraft-based emission measurements with land cover information, we found mis- or unrepresented emission sources. Our results help in understanding of pollution sources and in improving predictions of air quality in agricultural regions.
Youwei Hong, Keran Zhang, Dan Liao, Gaojie Chen, Min Zhao, Yiling Lin, Xiaoting Ji, Ke Xu, Yu Wu, Ruilian Yu, Gongren Hu, Sung-Deuk Choi, Likun Xue, and Jinsheng Chen
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 23, 10795–10807, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-10795-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-10795-2023, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
Particle uptakes of HCHO and the impacts on PM2.5 and O3 production remain highly uncertain. Based on the investigation of co-occurring wintertime O3 and PM2.5 pollution in a coastal city of southeast China, we found enhanced heterogeneous formation of hydroxymethanesulfonate (HMS) and increased ROx concentrations and net O3 production rates. The findings of this study are helpful to better explore the mechanisms of key precursors for co-occurring PM2.5 and O3 pollution.
Foteini Stavropoulou, Katarina Vinković, Bert Kers, Marcel de Vries, Steven van Heuven, Piotr Korbeń, Martina Schmidt, Julia Wietzel, Pawel Jagoda, Jaroslav M. Necki, Jakub Bartyzel, Hossein Maazallahi, Malika Menoud, Carina van der Veen, Sylvia Walter, Béla Tuzson, Jonas Ravelid, Randulph Paulo Morales, Lukas Emmenegger, Dominik Brunner, Michael Steiner, Arjan Hensen, Ilona Velzeboer, Pim van den Bulk, Hugo Denier van der Gon, Antonio Delre, Maklawe Essonanawe Edjabou, Charlotte Scheutz, Marius Corbu, Sebastian Iancu, Denisa Moaca, Alin Scarlat, Alexandru Tudor, Ioana Vizireanu, Andreea Calcan, Magdalena Ardelean, Sorin Ghemulet, Alexandru Pana, Aurel Constantinescu, Lucian Cusa, Alexandru Nica, Calin Baciu, Cristian Pop, Andrei Radovici, Alexandru Mereuta, Horatiu Stefanie, Alexandru Dandocsi, Bas Hermans, Stefan Schwietzke, Daniel Zavala-Araiza, Huilin Chen, and Thomas Röckmann
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 23, 10399–10412, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-10399-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-10399-2023, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
In this study, we quantify CH4 emissions from onshore oil production sites in Romania at source and facility level using a combination of ground- and drone-based measurement techniques. We show that the total CH4 emissions in our studied areas are much higher than the emissions reported to UNFCCC, and up to three-quarters of the detected emissions are related to operational venting. Our results suggest that oil and gas production infrastructure in Romania holds a massive mitigation potential.
Chunxiang Ye, Shuzheng Guo, Weili Lin, Fangjie Tian, Jianshu Wang, Chong Zhang, Suzhen Chi, Yi Chen, Yingjie Zhang, Limin Zeng, Xin Li, Duo Bu, Jiacheng Zhou, and Weixiong Zhao
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 23, 10383–10397, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-10383-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-10383-2023, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
Online volatile organic compound (VOC) measurements by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, with other O3 precursors, were used to identify key VOC and other key sources in Lhasa. Total VOCs (TVOCs), alkanes, and aromatics are half as abundant as in Beijing. Oxygenated VOCs (OVOCs) consist of 52 % of the TVOCs. Alkenes and OVOCs account for 80 % of the ozone formation potential. Aromatics dominate secondary organic aerosol potential. Positive matrix factorization decomposed residential sources.
Brandon Bottorff, Michelle M. Lew, Youngjun Woo, Pamela Rickly, Matthew D. Rollings, Benjamin Deming, Daniel C. Anderson, Ezra Wood, Hariprasad D. Alwe, Dylan B. Millet, Andrew Weinheimer, Geoff Tyndall, John Ortega, Sebastien Dusanter, Thierry Leonardis, James Flynn, Matt Erickson, Sergio Alvarez, Jean C. Rivera-Rios, Joshua D. Shutter, Frank Keutsch, Detlev Helmig, Wei Wang, Hannah M. Allen, Johnathan H. Slade, Paul B. Shepson, Steven Bertman, and Philip S. Stevens
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 23, 10287–10311, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-10287-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-10287-2023, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
The hydroxyl (OH), hydroperoxy (HO2), and organic peroxy (RO2) radicals play important roles in atmospheric chemistry and have significant air quality implications. Here, we compare measurements of OH, HO2, and total peroxy radicals (XO2) made in a remote forest in Michigan, USA, to predictions from a series of chemical models. Lower measured radical concentrations suggest that the models may be missing an important radical sink and overestimating the rate of ozone production in this forest.
Jenny Oh, Chubashini Shunthirasingham, Ying Duan Lei, Faqiang Zhan, Yuening Li, Abigaëlle Dalpé Castilloux, Amina Ben Chaaben, Zhe Lu, Kelsey Lee, Frank A. P. C. Gobas, Sabine Eckhardt, Nick Alexandrou, Hayley Hung, and Frank Wania
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 23, 10191–10205, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-10191-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-10191-2023, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
An emerging brominated flame retardant (BFR) called TBECH (1,2-dibromo-4-(1,2-dibromoethyl)cyclohexane) has never been produced or imported for use in Canada yet is found to be one of the most abundant gaseous BFRs in the Canadian atmosphere. The recorded spatial and temporal variability of TBECH suggest that the release from imported consumer products containing TBECH is the most likely explanation for its environmental occurrence in Canada.
Olivia E. Clifton, Donna Schwede, Christian Hogrefe, Jesse O. Bash, Sam Bland, Philip Cheung, Mhairi Coyle, Lisa Emberson, Johannes Flemming, Erick Fredj, Stefano Galmarini, Laurens Ganzeveld, Orestis Gazetas, Ignacio Goded, Christopher D. Holmes, László Horváth, Vincent Huijnen, Qian Li, Paul A. Makar, Ivan Mammarella, Giovanni Manca, J. William Munger, Juan L. Pérez-Camanyo, Jonathan Pleim, Limei Ran, Roberto San Jose, Sam J. Silva, Ralf Staebler, Shihan Sun, Amos P. K. Tai, Eran Tas, Timo Vesala, Tamás Weidinger, Zhiyong Wu, and Leiming Zhang
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 23, 9911–9961, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-9911-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-9911-2023, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
A primary sink of air pollutants is dry deposition. Dry deposition estimates differ across the models used to simulate atmospheric chemistry. Here, we introduce an effort to examine dry deposition schemes from atmospheric chemistry models. We provide our approach’s rationale, document the schemes, and describe datasets used to drive and evaluate the schemes. We also launch the analysis of results by evaluating against observations and identifying the processes leading to model–model differences.
Qindan Zhu, Bryan Place, Eva Y. Pfannerstill, Sha Tong, Huanxin Zhang, Jun Wang, Clara M. Nussbaumer, Paul Wooldridge, Benjamin C. Schulze, Caleb Arata, Anthony Bucholtz, John H. Seinfeld, Allen H. Goldstein, and Ronald C. Cohen
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 23, 9669–9683, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-9669-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-9669-2023, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
Nitrogen oxide (NOx) is a hazardous air pollutant, and it is the precursor of short-lived climate forcers like tropospheric ozone and aerosol particles. While NOx emissions from transportation has been strictly regulated, soil NOx emissions are overlooked. We use the airborne flux measurements to observe NOx emissions from highways and urban and cultivated soil land cover types. We show non-negligible soil NOx emissions, which are significantly underestimated in current model simulations.
Xin Yang, Kimberly Strong, Alison Criscitiello, Marta Santos-Garcia, Kristof Bognar, Xiaoyi Zhao, Pierre Fogal, Kaley Walker, Sara Morris, and Peter Effertz
EGUsphere, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2023-1446, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2023-1446, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
This study uses in-situ field data collected from a Canadian high Arctic site to demonstrate that surface snow in early spring is a net sink of atmospheric bromine and nitrogen. In addition, surface snow bromide and nitrate are significantly correlated, one molecule bromide deposited is accompanied by 4–7 molecules nitrate, indicating the oxidation of reactive nitrogen is accelerated by reactive bromine. This is the first time such an effect was seen in snow chemistry on a time scale of one day.
Money Ossohou, Jonathan Edward Hickman, Lieven Clarisse, Pierre-François Coheur, Martin Van Damme, Marcellin Adon, Véronique Yoboué, Eric Gardrat, Maria Dias Alvès, and Corinne Galy-Lacaux
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 23, 9473–9494, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-9473-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-9473-2023, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
The updated analyses of ground-based concentrations and satellite total vertical columns of atmospheric ammonia help us to better understand 21st century ammonia dynamics in sub-Saharan Africa. We conclude that the drivers of trends are agriculture in the dry savanna of Katibougou, Mali; air temperature and agriculture in the wet savanna of Djougou, Benin, and Lamto, Côte d'Ivoire; and leaf area index, air temperature, residential, and agriculture in forests of Bomassa, Republic of Congo.
Hyeri Park, Jooil Kim, Haklim Choi, Sohyeon Geum, Yeaseul Kim, Rona L. Thompson, Jens Mühle, Peter K. Salameh, Christina M. Harth, Kieran M. Stanley, Simon O'Doherty, Paul J. Fraser, Peter G. Simmonds, Paul B. Krummel, Ray F. Weiss, Ronald G. Prinn, and Sunyoung Park
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 23, 9401–9411, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-9401-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-9401-2023, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
Based on atmospheric HFC-23 observations, the first estimate of post-CDM HFC-23 emissions in eastern Asia for 2008–2019 shows that these emissions contribute significantly to the global emissions rise. The observation-derived emissions were much larger than the bottom-up estimates expected to approach zero after 2015 due to national abatement activities. These discrepancies could be attributed to unsuccessful factory-level HFC-23 abatement and inaccurate quantification of emission reductions.
Cited articles
Angot, H., Barret, M., Magand, O., Ramonet, M., and Dommergue, A.: A 2-year record of atmospheric mercury species at a background Southern Hemisphere station on Amsterdam Island, Atmos. Chem. Phys., 14, 11461–11473, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-14-11461-2014, 2014.
Baker, P. G. L., Brunke, E.-G., Slemr, F., and Crouch, A. M.: Atmospheric mercury measurements at Cape Point, South Africa, Atmos. Environ., 36, 2459–2465, 2002.
Brunke, E.-G., Scheel, H. E., and Seiler, W.: Trends of tropospheric CO, N2O and CH4 as observed at Cape Point, South Africa, Atmos. Environ., 24A, 585–595, 1990.
Brunke, E.-G., Labuschagne, C., Parker, B., Scheel, H. E., and Whittlestone, S.: Baseline airmass selection at Cape Point, South Africa: application of 222Rn and other filter criteria to CO2, Atmos. Environ., 38, 5693–5702, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.atmosenv.2004.04.024, 2004.
Brunke, E.-G., Slemr, F., Ebinghaus, R., and Kock, H.: Atmospheric Mercury Measurements at Cape Point, South Africa, Clean Air J., 18, 17–21, 2010a.
Brunke, E.-G., Labuschagne, C., Ebinghaus, R., Kock, H. H., and Slemr, F.: Gaseous elemental mercury depletion events observed at Cape Point during 2007–2008, Atmos. Chem. Phys., 10, 1121–1131, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-10-1121-2010, 2010b.
Ebinghaus, R., Jennings, S. G., Schroeder, W. H., Berg, T., Donaghy, T., Guentzel, J., Kenny, C., Kock, H. H., Kvietkus, K., Landing, W., Muhleck, T., Munthe, J., Prestbo, E. M., Schnee-berger, D., Slemr, F., Sommar, J., Urba, A., Wallschlager, D., and Xiao, Z.: International field intercomparison measurements of atmospheric mercury species at Mace Head, Ireland, Atmos. Environ., 33, 3063–3073, 1999.
Ebinghaus, R., Kock, H. H., Temme, C., Einax, J. W., Lowe, A. G., Richter, A., Burrows, J. P., and Schroeder, W. H.: Antarctic springtime depletion of atmospheric mercury, Environ. Sci. Technol., 36, 1238–1244, 2002.
Gierens, R. T., Laakso, L., Mogensen, D., Vakkari, V., Beukes, J. P., Van Zyl, P. G., Hakola, H., Guenther, A., Pienaar, J. J., and Boy, M.: Modelling new particle formation events in the South African savannah, S. Afr. J. Sci., 110, 2013-0108, https://doi.org/10.1590/sajs.2014/20130108, 2014.
Jacob, D. J., Prather, M. J., Rasch, P. J., Shia, R.-L., Balkanski, Y. J., Beagley, S. R., Bergmann, D. J., Blackshear, W. T., Brown, M., Chiba, M., Chipperfield, M. P., de Grandpáe, J., Dignon, J. E., Feichter, J., Genthon, Ch., Grose, W. L., Kasibhatla, P. S., Kohler, I., Kritz, M. A., Law, K., Penner, J. E., Ramonet, M., Reeves, C. E., Rotman, D. A., Stockwell, D. Z., van Velthoven, P. F. J., Verver, G., Wild, O., Yang, H., and Zimmermann, P.: Evaluation and intercomparison of global atmospheric transport models using 222Rn and other short-lived tracers, J. Geophys. Res., 102, 5953–5970, 1997.
Lan, X., Talbot, R., Castro, M., Perry, K., and Luke, W.: Seasonal and diurnal variations of atmospheric mercury across the US determined from AMNet monitoring data, Atmos. Chem. Phys., 12, 10569–10582, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-12-10569-2012, 2012.
Laudal, D. L., Pavlish, J. H., Graves, J., and Stockdill, D.: Mercury mass balances: A case study of two North Dakota Power Plants, J. Air Waste Manage. Assoc., 50, 1798–1804, 2000.
Lin, C.-J., Pongprueksa, P., Lindberg, S. E., Pehkonen, S. O., Byun, D., and Jang, C.: Scientific uncertainties in atmospheric mercury models I: Model science evaluation, Atmos. Environ., 40, 2911–2928, 2006.
Lindberg, S., Bullock, R., Ebinghaus, R., Engstrom, D., Feng, X., Fitzgerald, W., Pirrone, N., Prestbo, E., and Seigneur, C.: A synthesis of progress and uncertainties in attributing the sources of mercury in deposition, Ambio, 36, 19–32, 2007.
Lourens, A. S. M., Beukes, J. P., van Zyl, P. G., Fourie, G. D., Burger, J. W., Pienaar, J. J., Read, C. E., and Jordaan, J. H.: Spatial and Temporal assessment of Gaseous Pollutants in the Mpumalanga Highveld of South Africa, S. Afr. J. Sci., 107, 269, https://doi.org/10.4102/sajs.v107i1/2.269, 2011.
Lourens, A. S. M., Butler, T. M., Beukes, J. P., van Zyl, P. G., Beirle, S., and Wagner, T.: Re-evaluating the NO2 hotspot over the South African Highveld, S. Afr. J. Sci., 108, 1146, https://doi.org/10.4102/sajs.v108i11/12.1146, 2012.
Mao, H. and Talbot, R.: Speciated mercury at marine, coastal, and inland sites in New England – Part 1: Temporal variability, Atmos. Chem. Phys., 12, 5099–5112, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-12-5099-2012, 2012.
Mason, R. P.: Mercury emissions from natural processes and their importance in the global mercury cycle, Springer, New York, USA, 2009.
Mergler, D., Anderson, H. A., Chan, L. H. M., Mahaffey, K. R., Murray, M., Sakamoto, M., and Stern, A. H.: Methylmercury exposure and health effects in humans: A worldwide concern, Ambio, 36, 3–11, 2007.
Pirrone, N., Cinnirella, S., Feng, X., Finkelman, R. B., Friedli, H. R., Leaner, J., Mason, R., Mukherjee, A. B., Stracher, G. B., Streets, D. G., and Telmer, K.: Global mercury emissions to the atmosphere from anthropogenic and natural sources, Atmos. Chem. Phys., 10, 5951–5964, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-10-5951-2010, 2010.
Richter, A., Begoin, M., Hilboll, A., and Burrows, J. P.: An improved NO2 retrieval for the GOME-2 satellite instrument, Atmos. Meas. Tech., 4, 1147–1159, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-4-1147-2011, 2011.
Riddle, E. E., Voss, P. B., Stohl, A., Holcomb, D., Maczka, D., Washburn, K., and Talbot, R. W.: Trajectory model validation using newly developed altitude-controlled balloons during the International Consortium for Atmospheric Research on Transport and Transformations 2004 campaign, J. Geophys. Res., 111, D23S57, https://doi.org/10.1029/2006JD007456, 2006.
Scott, G. M. and Mdluli, T. N.: The Minamata Treaty/Protocol: Potential Implications for South Africa, Clean Air J., 22, 17–19, 2012.
Skjølsvik, K. O., Andersen, A. B., Corbett, J. J., and Skjelvik, J. M.: Study of Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Ships, 2nd Edn., Norwegian Marine Technology Research Institute, Trondheim, 2000.
Slemr, F., Brunke, E.-G., Labuschagne, C., and Ebinghaus, R.: Total gaseous mercury concentrations at the Cape Point GAW station and their seasonality, Geophys. Res. Lett., 35, L11807, https://doi.org/10.1029/2008GL033741, 2008.
Slemr, F., Brunke, E.-G., Ebinghaus, R., and Kuss, J.: Worldwide trend of atmospheric mercury since 1995, Atmos. Chem. Phys., 11, 4779–4787, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-11-4779-2011, 2011.
Slemr, F., Brunke, E.-G., Whittlestone, S., Zahorowski, W., Ebinghaus, R., Kock, H. H., and Labuschagne, C.: 222Rn-calibrated mercury fluxes from terrestrial surface of southern Africa, Atmos. Chem. Phys., 13, 6421–6428, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-13-6421-2013, 2013.
Slemr, F., Angot, H., Dommergue, A., Magand, O., Barret, M., Weigelt, A., Ebinghaus, R., Brunke, E.-G., Pfaffhuber, K. A., Edwards, G., Howard, D., Powell, J., Keywood, M., and Wang, F.: Comparison of mercury concentrations measured at several sites in the Southern Hemisphere, Atmos. Chem. Phys., 15, 3125–3133, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-15-3125-2015, 2015.
Stohl, A.: Computation, accuracy and application of trajectories – a review and bibliography, Atmos. Environ., 32, 947–966, 1998.
United States Coast Guard: AMVER, available at: http://www.amver.com/, last access: 17 November 2014.
Vakkari, V., Beukes, J. P., Laakso, H., Mabaso, D., Pienaar, J. J., Kulmala, M., and Laakso, L.: Long-term observations of aerosol size distributions in semi-clean and polluted savannah in South Africa, Atmos. Chem. Phys., 13, 1751–1770, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-13-1751-2013, 2013.
Venter, A. D., Vakkari, V., Beukes, J. P., van Zyl, P. G., Laakso, H., Mabaso, D., Tiitta, P., Josipovic, M., Kulmala, M., Pienaar, J. J., and Laakso, L.: An air quality assessment in the industrialized western Bushveld Igneous Complex, South Africa, S. Afr. J. Sci., 108, 1059, https://doi.org/10.4102/sajs.v108i9/10.1059, 2012.
Wagner, N. J.: Trace Elements in coal, their analysis and environmental impact, Literature Survey, SASOL R&D, Sasolburg, 2001.
Short summary
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.
Statistical techniques applied to continuous high-resolution Hg data and back-trajectory...
Altmetrics
Final-revised paper
Preprint