Articles | Volume 26, issue 3
https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-26-1947-2026
© Author(s) 2026. This work is distributed under
the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.
the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.
https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-26-1947-2026
© Author(s) 2026. This work is distributed under
the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.
the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.
Research article
| 
06 Feb 2026
Research article |
| 06 Feb 2026
| 06 Feb 2026
Oxidation-driven acceleration of NPF-to-CCN conversion under polluted atmosphere: evidence from mountain-top observations in Yangtze River Delta
Weibin Zhu
State Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Environment and Extreme Meteorology, Institute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100029, China
University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
Sai Shang
State Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Environment and Extreme Meteorology, Institute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100029, China
University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
Jieqi Wang
State Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Environment and Extreme Meteorology, Institute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100029, China
University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
Yunfei Wu
State Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Environment and Extreme Meteorology, Institute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100029, China
Zhaoze Deng
State Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Environment and Extreme Meteorology, Institute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100029, China
Liang Ran
State Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Environment and Extreme Meteorology, Institute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100029, China
Institute for Environmental and Climate Research, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 511400, China
Guiqian Tang
State Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Environment and Extreme Meteorology, Institute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100029, China
Xiangpeng Huang
College of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Jiangsu University of Technology, Changzhou, 213001, China
Xiaole Pan
State Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Environment and Extreme Meteorology, Institute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100029, China
Lanzhong Liu
Shanghuang Atmospheric Boundary Layer and Eco-Environment Observatory, Institute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Jinhua, 321203, China
Weiqi Xu
State Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Environment and Extreme Meteorology, Institute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100029, China
State Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Environment and Extreme Meteorology, Institute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100029, China
State Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Environment and Extreme Meteorology, Institute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100029, China
Zifa Wang
State Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Environment and Extreme Meteorology, Institute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100029, China
State Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Environment and Extreme Meteorology, Institute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100029, China
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Mengjie Lou, Qizhong Wu, Wending Wang, Huansheng Chen, Kai Cao, Xiaohan Fan, Dingyue Liang, Fen Fen Yu, Jiating Zhang, Wei Wang, and Zifa Wang
EGUsphere, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2026-3428, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2026-3428, 2026
This preprint is open for discussion and under review for Geoscientific Model Development (GMD).
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This study compares the model performance of the Emission and atmospheric Processes Integrated and Coupled Community Model with the two air quality models in China. The EPICC-Model excels in simulating summer ozone peaks, accurately captures pollution characteristics in highly polluted areas, and better reproduces persistent compound pollution processes. The study reveals common issues among the models and directions for improvement, providing a basis for optimizing global air quality models.
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This preprint is open for discussion and under review for Geoscientific Model Development (GMD).
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Atmos. Chem. Phys., 26, 8255–8274, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-26-8255-2026, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-26-8255-2026, 2026
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Fei Zhang, Xingcai Li, Zifa Wang, Yunyun Wen, Xuyang Zhou, Zichen Wu, Zhuoran Wang, Huansheng Chen, Zhe Wang, and Xueshun Chen
Geosci. Model Dev., 19, 4999–5017, https://doi.org/10.5194/gmd-19-4999-2026, https://doi.org/10.5194/gmd-19-4999-2026, 2026
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Solar power generation depends on weather conditions and photovoltaic modules, making accurate forecasts crucial for reliable grid operation. We combined weather prediction and artificial intelligence to improve the solar power prediction at different time scales for a plant. By improving sunlight predictions and incorporating physical constraints into the model, our approach reduced errors significantly. This can help integrate clean energy into power grids safely and efficiently.
Hongyi Li, Ting Yang, Lei Kong, Di Zhang, Guigang Tang, Xiao Tang, and Zifa Wang
Geosci. Model Dev., 19, 4835–4856, https://doi.org/10.5194/gmd-19-4835-2026, https://doi.org/10.5194/gmd-19-4835-2026, 2026
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We develop a novel data assimilation system by integrating incremental machine learning with a localized ensemble Kalman filter to enhance the simulation and reanalysis of particulate matter < 2.5 µm chemical components. Compared to traditional chemical transport model-based data assimilation, our assimilation system has superior computational efficiency and simulation improvements. Comparisons with independent observations and reanalysis datasets validate the robust performance of our system.
Yulin Wang, Deyu Liu, Honglei Wang, Shuangshuang Shi, Qun Hu, Zihan Wang, Zirui Liu, Tianliang Zhao, and Lijuan Shen
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 26, 7827–7842, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-26-7827-2026, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-26-7827-2026, 2026
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Atmospheric new particles formation plays an important role in air quality and climate change, but it does not always appear even in the similar situation. Using ground measurements and vertical observations, we found this process occurs only when the source increases while the sink weakens at the same time, which is mainly controlled by the development of the boundary layer. The finding helps us better understand particle formation in complex atmospheric environments.
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Qiu Wang, Tengyu Liu, Weiqi Xu, Jinbo Wang, Dafeng Ge, Caijun Zhu, Chuanhua Ren, Jiaping Wang, Qiaozhi Zha, Ximeng Qi, Wei Nie, Xuguang Chi, Sijia Lou, Xin Huang, and Aijun Ding
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 26, 3185–3194, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-26-3185-2026, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-26-3185-2026, 2026
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The sources and formation mechanisms of aqueous secondary organic aerosol (aqSOA) remain unclear. This study investigates the characteristics and processing of aqSOA in polluted suburban environments in Eastern China. The results highlight the critical roles of nitrate, aerosol liquid water, acidity, and photochemistry in aqSOA formation and contribute to an improved understanding of aqSOA formation in polluted environments.
Jingye Ren, Wei Xu, Ru-Jin Huang, Fang Zhang, Ying Wang, Lu Chen, Jurgita Ovadnevaite, Darius Ceburnis, Colin O'Dowd, and Yele Sun
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Impact of mixing state on cloud condensation nuclei (CCN) was incorporated in limited modeling with simplified assumption. This study derived a mixing state index from hygroscopicity and systematically investigated the covariation between the mixing state and CCN activity in inland and coastal air. We propose a practical approach for estimating critical diameter from mixing state index, applicable when the aerosol particles are not highly aged.
Yali Jin, Hao Luo, Siqi Tang, Shuhui Xue, Chengyu Nie, Xiaocong Peng, Yan Zheng, Weiqi Xu, Guohua Zhang, Xiaole Pan, Yele Sun, Qi Chen, Lanzhong Liu, and Defeng Zhao
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Cloud substantially changes the compositions organic aerosol. How cloud processing of organics occur on molecular level remains unclear. We found that compared with cloud free particles, organics in cloud contains more large molecules likely due to accretion reactions and has more nitrogen-containing compounds. We identify some new compounds formed in cloud. Such modifications of the organics in cloud can further change its physicochemical properties, and impact on climate and human health.
Chunshui Lin, Ru-Jin Huang, Jing Duan, Jing Qu, Jiahua Liu, Yi Liu, Yan Luo, Wei Huang, Wei Xu, Yanan Zhan, Zhitao Liu, Sihan Liu, Qingshuang Zhang, Quan Liu, Zirui Liu, Shengrong Lou, Huinan Yang, Dan Dan Huang, Cheng Huang, and Hongli Wang
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Since China's 2013 Clean Air Act cut PM2.5 by over half, winter haze in the North China Plain persists partly due to secondary organic aerosols now dominating primary organic aerosol, requiring urgent regional cooperation to address model-underestimated chemical transformations and cross-border pollution.
Wei Zhou, Liu Yang, Siqi Zeng, Yunping Kan, Lirong Yang, Weihong Zhang, Weijie Wang, Zijun Zhang, Yan Li, Weiqi Xu, Yucheng Gu, Yaozong Wang, Zhengyan Zuo, Jie Li, Zifa Wang, and Yele Sun
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 26, 2425–2441, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-26-2425-2026, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-26-2425-2026, 2026
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Northwest China, situated in an arid and semi-arid climate region; air quality issues in this area have received less attention compared to other Chinese metropolitan clusters. This research identify a significant shift towards the coupling PM2.5 and O3 relationships over the past decade in northwest China, highlighting the great importance of urban terpenes and aromatic oxidation in secondary organic aerosol formation.
Lindsay D. Yee, Emily B. Franklin, Robin J. Weber, Jessica Zhao, Tiger Zhang, Stephanie Xu, Isaac Santillan, Fangyuan Li, Coty N. Jen, Haofei Zhang, Yutong Liang, Gabriel Isaacman Van-Wertz, Rebecca A. Wernis, John Offenberg, Michael Lewandowski, Taekyu Joo, Masayuki Takeuchi, Gamze Eris, Weiqi Xu, Nga L. Ng, Yuzhi Chen, John E. Shilling, Mary Alice Upshur, Ariana Gray Bé, Regan J. Thomson, Franz M. Geiger, and Allen H. Goldstein
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An open-access mass spectral database of identified and unidentified compounds in atmospheric and laboratory-generated organic aerosols is released to aid in future molecular discoveries in the environmental sciences. Identification of air pollution sources and origins are improved using the ~27,000 mass spectral records in the UCB-GLOBES database.
Guochen Wang, Xuedong Cui, Bingye Xu, Can Wu, Minkang Zhi, Keliang Li, Liang Xu, Qi Yuan, Yuntao Wang, Yele Sun, Zongbo Shi, Akinori Ito, Shixian Zhai, and Weijun Li
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 26, 1483–1496, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-26-1483-2026, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-26-1483-2026, 2026
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Iron acidification process is primarily driven by sulphuric acid in the upper mixing layer different from nitric acid at the ground-level. Enhanced atmospheric aging process contributes to high iron solubility in the upper mixing layer. Numerical models should consider vertical variations in iron dissolution to improve simulation accuracy.
Haoyuan Chen, Tao Song, Xiaodong Chen, Yinghong Wang, Mengtian Cheng, Kai Wang, Fuxin Liu, Baoxian Liu, Guiqian Tang, and Yuesi Wang
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 26, 1359–1371, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-26-1359-2026, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-26-1359-2026, 2026
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The methane leakage from natural gas may offset the reduced CO2 emissions from its combustion, To quantify its effect, we established the flux observation platform in Beijing, the results showed that natural gas has become a common source of both after the transformation of energy structure, the natural gas could escape during production, storage and use. Although the natural gas leakage rate is not high (1.12 %), the greenhouse effect caused by natural gas leakage can not be ignored.
Jialu Xu, Yingjie Zhang, Yuying Wang, Xing Yan, Bin Zhu, Chunsong Lu, Yuanjian Yang, Yele Sun, Junhui Zhang, Xiaofan Zuo, Zhanghanshu Han, and Rui Zhang
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 25, 18599–18616, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-25-18599-2025, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-25-18599-2025, 2025
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We conducted a year-long study in Nanjing to explore how the height of the atmospheric boundary layer affects fine particle pollution. We found that low boundary layers in winter trap pollutants like nitrate and primary particles, while higher layers in summer help form secondary pollutants like sulfate and organic aerosols. These findings show that boundary layer dynamics are key to understanding and managing seasonal air pollution.
Qinghai Qi, Yuting Tan, Christian A. Gueymard, Martin Wild, Bo Hu, Wenmin Qin, Taowen Sun, Ming Zhang, and Lunche Wang
Earth Syst. Sci. Data, 17, 7271–7292, https://doi.org/10.5194/essd-17-7271-2025, https://doi.org/10.5194/essd-17-7271-2025, 2025
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This research presents China's first long-term (1981–2023) hyperspectral ultraviolet radiation dataset with exceptional 0.5 nm spectral resolution. The spectral detail enables precise identification of UV absorption characteristics and atmospheric interactions previously obscured in conventional broadband measurements. These results provide new capabilities for monitoring ozone depletion, and optimizing solar energy systems across China's diverse climatic regions.
Yutong Tian, Ting Yang, Hongyi Li, Ping Tian, Yifan Song, Jiancun He, Yining Tan, Yele Sun, and Zifa Wang
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 25, 17581–17594, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-25-17581-2025, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-25-17581-2025, 2025
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This study examines how nitrate pollution varies with height and season to combat urban haze. Nitrate levels peak near the ground in spring/winter due to humidity and temperature, while wind and sunlight drive high-altitude pollution in late autumn. Winter shows unique daytime peaks linked to sunlight and nighttime chemistry. Findings help cities design targeted strategies, like timing emissions cuts, to improve air quality by addressing pollution at specific heights and times.
Junhui Zhang, Yuying Wang, Jialu Xu, Xiaofan Zuo, Chunsong Lu, Bin Zhu, Yuanjian Yang, Xing Yan, and Yele Sun
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 25, 17413–17428, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-25-17413-2025, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-25-17413-2025, 2025
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We conducted a year-long study in Nanjing to understand how tiny airborne particles take up water, which affects air quality and climate. We found that particle water uptake varies by season and size, with lower values in summer due to more organic materials. Local pollution mainly influences smaller particles, while larger ones are shaped by air mass transport. These findings help improve climate models and support better air pollution control in fast-growing cities.
Wenqing Jiang, Lijuan Li, Lu Yu, Hwajin Kim, Yele Sun, and Qi Zhang
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 25, 16817–16832, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-25-16817-2025, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-25-16817-2025, 2025
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We studied how sunlight changes natural organic matter in fog droplets and the tiny airborne particles formed after the water evaporation. Advanced analyses showed that sunlight makes this material more oxidized, nitrogen-enriched, chemically transformed, and different in light absorption and volatility. These sunlight-driven changes influence the particles’ behavior in the air, affecting air quality, climate, and how long they remain suspended in the atmosphere.
Mengjie Lou, Qizhong Wu, Wending Wang, Huansheng Chen, Kai Cao, Xiaohan Fan, Dingyue Liang, Fenfen Yu, Jiating Zhang, Wei Wang, and Zifa Wang
EGUsphere, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2025-4441, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2025-4441, 2025
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This study compares the performance of the independently developed EPICC-Model with CAMx and CMAQ in simulating PM2.5 and O3 in China. It finds that EPICC-Model excels in simulating summer ozone peaks, accurately captures pollution characteristics in highly polluted areas, and better reproduces persistent compound pollution processes. Furthermore, this study reveals common issues among the models and directions for improvement, providing a basis for optimizing global air quality models.
Yuhang Hao, Peizhao Li, Yafeng Gou, Zhenshuai Wang, Mi Tian, Yang Chen, Ye Kuang, Hanbing Xu, Fenglian Wan, Yuqian Luo, Wei Huang, and Jing Chen
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 25, 12811–12830, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-25-12811-2025, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-25-12811-2025, 2025
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Intensified heatwaves under global warming have influenced new particle formation (NPF) and related aerosol physicochemical properties. We show that aerosol optical hygroscopicity (f(RH)) was generally higher on NPF days than in non-event cases, likely due to enhanced secondary formation and subsequent growth of both pre-existing and newly formed particles with stronger photooxidation, specifically under persistent heatwaves. This would further impact the aerosol direct radiative forcing.
Junlin Shen, Ye Kuang, Li Liu, Fengling Yuan, Biao Luo, Hongqing Qiao, Miaomiao Zhai, Gang Zhao, Hanbing Xu, Fei Li, Yu Zou, Tao Deng, and Xuejiao Deng
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 25, 11233–11246, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-25-11233-2025, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-25-11233-2025, 2025
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This study provides direct observational evidence that secondary organic aerosol formation enhances the aerosol scattering refractive index and has substantially higher real refractive indices than primary organic aerosols in humid southern China, challenging current model assumptions and offering recommended values that might improve the accuracy of aerosol radiative effect simulations.
Zheng Yang, Qiaoqiao Wang, Qiyuan Wang, Nan Ma, Jie Tian, Yaqing Zhou, Ge Xu, Miao Gao, Xiaoxian Zhou, Yang Zhang, Weikang Ran, Ning Yang, Jiangchuan Tao, Juan Hong, Yunfei Wu, Junji Cao, Hang Su, and Yafang Cheng
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 25, 11051–11065, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-25-11051-2025, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-25-11051-2025, 2025
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Our results demonstrate that the reduction in mass absorption efficiency from biomass burning is mainly driven by the decline in the imaginary part, with particle size playing a minor role. And light absorption of oxygenated brown carbon (BrC) increases significantly with aging, but hydrocarbon-like BrC decreases over time. These results emphasize the necessity to classify BrC into different groups based on their mass absorption efficiency and atmospheric behavior in climate models.
Kai Cao, Qizhong Wu, Xiao Tang, Jinxi Li, Xueshun Chen, Huansheng Chen, Wending Wang, Huangjian Wu, Lei Kong, Jie Li, Jiang Zhu, and Zifa Wang
EGUsphere, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2025-2918, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2025-2918, 2025
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This study achieves significant acceleration by developing an optimized advection module for Emission and atmospheric Processes Integrated and Coupled Community Model on GPU-like accelerators. Through implementing thread-block coordinated indexing, minimizing CPU-GPU communication, and an hybrid parallelization framework, we demonstrate prominent speedups: 556.5× faster offline performance for the Heterogeneous Interface PPM solver and 20.5× acceleration in coupled simulations.
Wendell W. Walters, Masayuki Takeuchi, Danielle E. Blum, Gamze Eris, David Tanner, Weiqi Xu, Jean Rivera-Rios, Fobang Liu, Tianchang Xu, Greg Huey, Justin B. Min, Rodney Weber, Nga L. Ng, and Meredith G. Hastings
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 25, 10707–10730, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-25-10707-2025, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-25-10707-2025, 2025
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We studied how chemicals released from plants and pollution interact in the atmosphere, affecting air quality and climate. By combining laboratory experiments and chemistry models, we tracked unique chemical fingerprints to understand how nitrogen compounds transform to form particles in the air. Our findings help explain the role of these reactions in pollution and provide tools to improve predictions for cleaner air and better climate policies.
Xi Chen, Ke Li, Ting Yang, Xipeng Jin, Lei Chen, Yang Yang, Shuman Zhao, Bo Hu, Bin Zhu, Zifa Wang, and Hong Liao
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 25, 9151–9168, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-25-9151-2025, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-25-9151-2025, 2025
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Aerosol vertical distribution that plays a crucial role in aerosol–photolysis interaction (API) remains underrepresented in chemical models. We integrated lidar and radiosonde observations to constrain the simulated aerosol profiles over North China and quantified the photochemical responses. The increased photolysis rates in the lower layers led to increased ozone and accounted for a 36 %–56 % reduction in API effects, resulting in enhanced atmospheric oxidizing capacity and aerosol formation.
Huiyun Du, Jie Li, Xueshun Chen, Gabriele Curci, Fangqun Yu, Yele Sun, Xu Dao, Song Guo, Zhe Wang, Wenyi Yang, Lianfang Wei, and Zifa Wang
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 25, 5665–5681, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-25-5665-2025, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-25-5665-2025, 2025
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Inadequate consideration of mixing states and coatings on black carbon (BC) hinders aerosol radiation forcing quantification. Core–shell mixing aligns well with observations, but partial internal mixing is a more realistic representation. We used a microphysics module to determine the fraction of embedded BC and coating aerosols, constraining the mixing state. This reduced absorption enhancement by 30 %–43 % in northern China, offering insights into BC's radiative effects.
Jingye Ren, Songjian Zou, Honghao Xu, Guiquan Liu, Zhe Wang, Anran Zhang, Chuanfeng Zhao, Min Hu, Dongjie Shang, Lizi Tang, Ru-Jin Huang, Yele Sun, and Fang Zhang
EGUsphere, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2025-1483, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2025-1483, 2025
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In this study, a new framework of cloud condensation nuclei (CCN) prediction in polluted region has been developed and it achieves well prediction of hourly-to-yearly scale across North China Plain. The study reveals a significant long-term decreasing trend of CCN concentration at typical supersaturations due to a rapid reduction in aerosol concentrations from 2014 to 2018. This improvement of our new model would be helpful to aerosols climate effect assessment in models.
Ye Kuang, Biao Luo, Shan Huang, Junwen Liu, Weiwei Hu, Yuwen Peng, Duohong Chen, Dingli Yue, Wanyun Xu, Bin Yuan, and Min Shao
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 25, 3737–3752, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-25-3737-2025, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-25-3737-2025, 2025
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This research reveals the potential importance of nighttime NO3 radical chemistry and aerosol water in the rapid formation of secondary brown carbon from diluted biomass burning emissions. The findings enhance our understanding of nighttime biomass burning evolution and its implications for climate and regional air quality, especially regarding interactions with background aerosol water and water-rich fogs and clouds.
Xiao-Bing Li, Bin Yuan, Yibo Huangfu, Suxia Yang, Xin Song, Jipeng Qi, Xianjun He, Sihang Wang, Yubin Chen, Qing Yang, Yongxin Song, Yuwen Peng, Guiqian Tang, Jian Gao, Dasa Gu, and Min Shao
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 25, 2459–2472, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-25-2459-2025, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-25-2459-2025, 2025
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Online vertical gradient measurements of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), ozone, and NOx were conducted based on a 325 m tall tower in urban Beijing. Vertical changes in the concentrations, compositions, key drivers, and environmental impacts of VOCs were analyzed in this study. We find that VOC species display differentiated vertical variation patterns and distinct roles in contributing to photochemical ozone formation with increasing height in the urban planetary boundary layer.
Ye Kuang, Jiangchuan Tao, Hanbing Xu, Li Liu, Pengfei Liu, Wanyun Xu, Weiqi Xu, Yele Sun, and Chunsheng Zhao
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 25, 1163–1174, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-25-1163-2025, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-25-1163-2025, 2025
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This study presents a novel optical framework to measure supersaturation, a fundamental parameter in cloud physics, by observing the scattering properties of particles that have or have not grown into cloud droplets. The technique offers high-resolution measurements, capturing essential fluctuations in supersaturation necessary for understanding cloud physics.
Zichen Wu, Xueshun Chen, Zifa Wang, Huansheng Chen, Zhe Wang, Qing Mu, Lin Wu, Wending Wang, Xiao Tang, Jie Li, Ying Li, Qizhong Wu, Yang Wang, Zhiyin Zou, and Zijian Jiang
Geosci. Model Dev., 17, 8885–8907, https://doi.org/10.5194/gmd-17-8885-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/gmd-17-8885-2024, 2024
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We developed a model to simulate polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) from global to regional scales. The model can reproduce PAH distribution well. The concentration of BaP (indicator species for PAHs) could exceed the target values of 1 ng m-3 over some areas (e.g., in central Europe, India, and eastern China). The change in BaP is lower than that in PM2.5 from 2013 to 2018. China still faces significant potential health risks posed by BaP although the Action Plan has been implemented.
Lu Zhang, Michal Segal-Rozenhaimer, Haochi Che, Caroline Dang, Junying Sun, Ye Kuang, Paola Formenti, and Steven G. Howell
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 24, 13849–13864, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-13849-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-13849-2024, 2024
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Using airborne measurements over the southeast Atlantic Ocean, we examined how much moisture aerosols take up during Africa’s biomass burning season. Our study revealed the important role of organic aerosols and introduced a predictive model for moisture uptake, accounting for organics, sulfate, and black carbon, summarizing results from various campaigns. These findings improve our understanding of aerosol–moisture interactions and their radiative effects in this climatically critical region.
Hongyi Li, Ting Yang, Lars Nerger, Dawei Zhang, Di Zhang, Guigang Tang, Haibo Wang, Yele Sun, Pingqing Fu, Hang Su, and Zifa Wang
Geosci. Model Dev., 17, 8495–8519, https://doi.org/10.5194/gmd-17-8495-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/gmd-17-8495-2024, 2024
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To accurately characterize the spatiotemporal distribution of particulate matter <2.5 µm chemical components, we developed the Nested Air Quality Prediction Model System with the Parallel Data Assimilation Framework (NAQPMS-PDAF) v2.0 for chemical components with non-Gaussian and nonlinear properties. NAQPMS-PDAF v2.0 has better computing efficiency, excels when used with a small ensemble size, and can significantly improve the simulation performance of chemical components.
Yichen Jiang, Su Shi, Xinyue Li, Chang Xu, Haidong Kan, Bo Hu, and Xia Meng
Earth Syst. Sci. Data, 16, 4655–4672, https://doi.org/10.5194/essd-16-4655-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/essd-16-4655-2024, 2024
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Limited ultraviolet (UV) measurements hindered further investigation of its health effects. This study used a machine learning algorithm to predict UV radiation with a daily and 10 km resolution of high accuracy in mainland China in 2005–2020. Then, uneven spatial distribution and population exposure risks as well as increased temporal trend of UV radiation were found in China. The long-term and high-quality UV dataset could further facilitate health-related research in the future.
Lei Kong, Xiao Tang, Zifa Wang, Jiang Zhu, Jianjun Li, Huangjian Wu, Qizhong Wu, Huansheng Chen, Lili Zhu, Wei Wang, Bing Liu, Qian Wang, Duohong Chen, Yuepeng Pan, Jie Li, Lin Wu, and Gregory R. Carmichael
Earth Syst. Sci. Data, 16, 4351–4387, https://doi.org/10.5194/essd-16-4351-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/essd-16-4351-2024, 2024
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A new long-term inversed emission inventory for Chinese air quality (CAQIEI) is developed in this study, which contains constrained monthly emissions of NOx, SO2, CO, PM2.5, PM10, and NMVOCs in China from 2013 to 2020 with a horizontal resolution of 15 km. Emissions of different air pollutants and their changes during 2013–2020 were investigated and compared with previous emission inventories, which sheds new light on the complex variations of air pollutant emissions in China.
Weiqi Xu, Ye Kuang, Wanyun Xu, Zhiqiang Zhang, Biao Luo, Xiaoyi Zhang, Jiangchuang Tao, Hongqin Qiao, Li Liu, and Yele Sun
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 24, 9387–9399, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-9387-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-9387-2024, 2024
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We deployed an advanced aerosol–fog sampling system at a rural site in the North China Plain to investigate impacts of aerosol hygroscopic growth and activation on the physicochemical properties of submicron aerosols. Observed results highlighted remarkably different aqueous processing of primary and secondary submicron aerosol components under distinct ambient relative humidity (RH) conditions and that RH levels significantly impact aerosol sampling through the aerosol swelling effect.
Jiangchuan Tao, Biao Luo, Weiqi Xu, Gang Zhao, Hanbin Xu, Biao Xue, Miaomiao Zhai, Wanyun Xu, Huarong Zhao, Sanxue Ren, Guangsheng Zhou, Li Liu, Ye Kuang, and Yele Sun
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 24, 9131–9154, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-9131-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-9131-2024, 2024
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Using simultaneous measurements of DMA–CCNC, H(/V)TDMA, and DMA–SP2, impacts of primary emissions and secondary aerosol formations on changes in aerosol physicochemical properties were comprehensively investigated. It was found that intercomparisons among aerosol mixing-state parameters derived from different techniques can help us gain more insight into aerosol physical properties which, in turn, will aid the investigation of emission characteristics and secondary aerosol formation pathways.
Zijun Zhang, Weiqi Xu, Yi Zhang, Wei Zhou, Xiangyu Xu, Aodong Du, Yinzhou Zhang, Hongqin Qiao, Ye Kuang, Xiaole Pan, Zifa Wang, Xueling Cheng, Lanzhong Liu, Qingyan Fu, Douglas R. Worsnop, Jie Li, and Yele Sun
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 24, 8473–8488, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-8473-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-8473-2024, 2024
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We investigated aerosol composition and sources and the interaction between secondary organic aerosol (SOA) and clouds at a regional mountain site in southeastern China. Clouds efficiently scavenge more oxidized SOA; however, cloud evaporation leads to the production of less oxidized SOA. The unexpectedly high presence of nitrate in aerosol particles indicates that nitrate formed in polluted areas has undergone interactions with clouds, significantly influencing the regional background site.
Ming Chu, Xing Wei, Shangfei Hai, Yang Gao, Huiwang Gao, Yujiao Zhu, Biwu Chu, Nan Ma, Juan Hong, Yele Sun, and Xiaohong Yao
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 24, 6769–6786, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-6769-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-6769-2024, 2024
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We used a 20-bin WRF-Chem model to simulate NPF events in the NCP during a three-week observational period in the summer of 2019. The model was able to reproduce the observations during June 29–July 6, which was characterized by a high frequency of NPF occurrence.
Zhiqiang Zhang, Ying Li, Haiyan Ran, Junling An, Yu Qu, Wei Zhou, Weiqi Xu, Weiwei Hu, Hongbin Xie, Zifa Wang, Yele Sun, and Manabu Shiraiwa
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 24, 4809–4826, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-4809-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-4809-2024, 2024
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Secondary organic aerosols (SOAs) can exist in liquid, semi-solid, or amorphous solid states, which are rarely accounted for in current chemical transport models. We predict the phase state of SOA particles over China and find that in northwestern China SOA particles are mostly highly viscous or glassy solid. Our results indicate that the particle phase state should be considered in SOA formation in chemical transport models for more accurate prediction of SOA mass concentrations.
Xinlei Ge, Yele Sun, Justin Trousdell, Mindong Chen, and Qi Zhang
Atmos. Meas. Tech., 17, 423–439, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-17-423-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-17-423-2024, 2024
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This study aims to enhance the application of the Aerodyne high-resolution aerosol mass spectrometer (HR-AMS) in characterizing organic nitrogen (ON) species within aerosol particles and droplets. A thorough analysis was conducted on 75 ON standards that represent a diverse spectrum of ambient ON types. The results underscore the capacity of the HR-AMS in examining the concentration and chemistry of atmospheric ON compounds, thereby offering insights into their sources and environmental impacts.
Lu Zhang, Michal Segal-Rozenhaimer, Haochi Che, Caroline Dang, Junying Sun, Ye Kuang, and Paola Formenti
EGUsphere, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2023-2319, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2023-2319, 2023
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Our study examined the interaction between atmospheric particles and moisture over the south-eastern Atlantic Ocean during the biomass burning seasons in Africa. We found that organic components of these particles play a more important role in aerosol-moisture interactions than previously expected. This discovery is important as such interactions impact radiation and climate. Current climate models might need better representations of the moisture-absorbing properties of organic aerosols.
Aodong Du, Jiaxing Sun, Hang Liu, Weiqi Xu, Wei Zhou, Yuting Zhang, Lei Li, Xubing Du, Yan Li, Xiaole Pan, Zifa Wang, and Yele Sun
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 23, 13597–13611, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-13597-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-13597-2023, 2023
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We characterized the impacts of emission controls on particle mixing state and density during the Beijing Olympic Winter Games using a SPAMS in tandem with a DMA and an AAC. OC and sulfate-containing particles increased, while those from primary emissions decreased. The effective particle densities increased and varied largely for different particles, highlighting the impacts of aging and formation processes on the changes of particle density and mixing state.
Tao Wang, Hang Liu, Jie Li, Shuai Wang, Youngseob Kim, Yele Sun, Wenyi Yang, Huiyun Du, Zhe Wang, and Zifa Wang
Geosci. Model Dev., 16, 5585–5599, https://doi.org/10.5194/gmd-16-5585-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/gmd-16-5585-2023, 2023
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This paper developed a two-way coupled module in a new version of a regional urban–street network model, IAQMS-street v2.0, in which the mass flux from streets to background is considered. Test cases are defined to evaluate the performance of IAQMS-street v2.0 in Beijing by comparing it with that simulated by IAQMS-street v1.0 and a regional model. The contribution of local emissions and the influence of on-road vehicle control measures on air quality are evaluated by using IAQMS-street v2.0.
Xi Chen, Ting Yang, Zifa Wang, Futing Wang, and Haibo Wang
Atmos. Meas. Tech., 16, 4289–4302, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-16-4289-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-16-4289-2023, 2023
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Uncertainties remain great in the planetary boundary layer height (PBLH) determination from radiosonde, especially during the transition period of different PBL regimes. We combine seven existing methods along with statistical modification on gradient-based methods. We find that the ensemble method can eliminate the overestimation of PBLH and reduce the inconsistency between individual methods. The ensemble method improves the effectiveness of PBLH determination to 62.6 %.
Yong Zhang, Jie Tian, Qiyuan Wang, Lu Qi, Manousos Ioannis Manousakas, Yuemei Han, Weikang Ran, Yele Sun, Huikun Liu, Renjian Zhang, Yunfei Wu, Tianqu Cui, Kaspar Rudolf Daellenbach, Jay Gates Slowik, André S. H. Prévôt, and Junji Cao
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 23, 9455–9471, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-9455-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-9455-2023, 2023
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PM2.5 pollution still frequently occurs in northern China during winter, and it is necessary to figure out the causes of air pollution based on intensive real-time measurement. The findings elaborate the chemical characteristics and source contributions of PM2.5 in three pilot cities, reveal potential formation mechanisms of secondary aerosols, and highlight the importance of controlling biomass burning and inhibiting generation of secondary aerosol for air quality improvement.
Lichao Yang, Wansuo Duan, and Zifa Wang
Geosci. Model Dev., 16, 3827–3848, https://doi.org/10.5194/gmd-16-3827-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/gmd-16-3827-2023, 2023
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An approach is proposed to refine a ground meteorological observation network to improve the PM2.5 forecasts in the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei region. A cost-effective observation network is obtained and makes the relevant PM2.5 forecasts assimilate fewer observations but achieve the forecasting skill comparable to or higher than that obtained by assimilating all ground station observations, suggesting that many of the current ground stations can be greatly scattered to avoid much unnecessary work.
Hang Liu, Xiaole Pan, Shandong Lei, Yuting Zhang, Aodong Du, Weijie Yao, Guiqian Tang, Tao Wang, Jinyuan Xin, Jie Li, Yele Sun, Junji Cao, and Zifa Wang
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 23, 7225–7239, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-7225-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-7225-2023, 2023
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We provide the average vertical profiles of black carbon (BC) concentration, size distribution and coating thickness at different times of the day in an urban area based on 112 vertical profiles. In addition, it is found that BC in the residual layer generally has a thicker coating, higher absorption enhancement and hygroscopicity than on the surface. Such aged BC could enter into the boundary layer and influence the BC properties in the early morning.
Fei Li, Biao Luo, Miaomiao Zhai, Li Liu, Gang Zhao, Hanbing Xu, Tao Deng, Xuejiao Deng, Haobo Tan, Ye Kuang, and Jun Zhao
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 23, 6545–6558, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-6545-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-6545-2023, 2023
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A field campaign was conducted to study black carbon (BC) mass size distributions and mixing states connected to traffic emissions using a system that combines a differential mobility analyzer and single-particle soot photometer. Results showed that the black carbon content of traffic emissions has a considerable influence on both BC mass size distributions and mixing states, which has crucial implications for accurately representing BC from various sources in regional and climate models.
Wen Lu, Bin Zhu, Shuqi Yan, Jie Li, and Zifa Wang
EGUsphere, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2023-1089, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2023-1089, 2023
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Parameterized the minimum turbulent diffusivity (Kzmin) by sensible heat flux and latent heat flux and embedded it into the WRF-Chem model. New scheme improved the underestimation of turbulence diffusion underestimation and overestimation of surface PM2.5 under stable boundary layer simulation over eastern China. The physical relationship between Kzmin and two factors was discussed. Process analysis showed that vertical mixing is the key process to improve surface PM2.5 simulations.
Lei Kong, Xiao Tang, Jiang Zhu, Zifa Wang, Yele Sun, Pingqing Fu, Meng Gao, Huangjian Wu, Miaomiao Lu, Qian Wu, Shuyuan Huang, Wenxuan Sui, Jie Li, Xiaole Pan, Lin Wu, Hajime Akimoto, and Gregory R. Carmichael
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 23, 6217–6240, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-6217-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-6217-2023, 2023
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A multi-air-pollutant inversion system has been developed in this study to estimate emission changes in China during COVID-19 lockdown. The results demonstrate that the lockdown is largely a nationwide road traffic control measure with NOx emissions decreasing by ~40 %. Emissions of other species only decreased by ~10 % due to smaller effects of lockdown on other sectors. Assessment results further indicate that the lockdown only had limited effects on the control of PM2.5 and O3 in China.
Joanna E. Dyson, Lisa K. Whalley, Eloise J. Slater, Robert Woodward-Massey, Chunxiang Ye, James D. Lee, Freya Squires, James R. Hopkins, Rachel E. Dunmore, Marvin Shaw, Jacqueline F. Hamilton, Alastair C. Lewis, Stephen D. Worrall, Asan Bacak, Archit Mehra, Thomas J. Bannan, Hugh Coe, Carl J. Percival, Bin Ouyang, C. Nicholas Hewitt, Roderic L. Jones, Leigh R. Crilley, Louisa J. Kramer, W. Joe F. Acton, William J. Bloss, Supattarachai Saksakulkrai, Jingsha Xu, Zongbo Shi, Roy M. Harrison, Simone Kotthaus, Sue Grimmond, Yele Sun, Weiqi Xu, Siyao Yue, Lianfang Wei, Pingqing Fu, Xinming Wang, Stephen R. Arnold, and Dwayne E. Heard
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 23, 5679–5697, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-5679-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-5679-2023, 2023
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The hydroxyl (OH) and closely coupled hydroperoxyl (HO2) radicals are vital for their role in the removal of atmospheric pollutants. In less polluted regions, atmospheric models over-predict HO2 concentrations. In this modelling study, the impact of heterogeneous uptake of HO2 onto aerosol surfaces on radical concentrations and the ozone production regime in Beijing in the summertime is investigated, and the implications for emissions policies across China are considered.
Juan Hong, Min Tang, Qiaoqiao Wang, Nan Ma, Shaowen Zhu, Shaobin Zhang, Xihao Pan, Linhong Xie, Guo Li, Uwe Kuhn, Chao Yan, Jiangchuan Tao, Ye Kuang, Yao He, Wanyun Xu, Runlong Cai, Yaqing Zhou, Zhibin Wang, Guangsheng Zhou, Bin Yuan, Yafang Cheng, and Hang Su
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 23, 5699–5713, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-5699-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-5699-2023, 2023
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A comprehensive investigation of the characteristics of new particle formation (NPF) events was conducted at a rural site on the North China Plain (NCP), China, during the wintertime of 2018 by covering the particle number size distribution down to sub–3 nm. Potential mechanisms for NPF under the current environment were explored, followed by a further discussion on the factors governing the occurrence of NPF at this rural site compared with other regions (e.g., urban areas) in the NCP region.
Miaomiao Zhai, Ye Kuang, Li Liu, Yao He, Biao Luo, Wanyun Xu, Jiangchuan Tao, Yu Zou, Fei Li, Changqin Yin, Chunhui Li, Hanbing Xu, and Xuejiao Deng
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 23, 5119–5133, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-5119-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-5119-2023, 2023
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Using year-long aerosol mass spectrometer measurements, roles of secondary organic aerosols (SOA) during haze formations in an urban area of southern China were systematically analyzed. Almost all severe haze events were accompanied by continuous daytime and nighttime SOA formations, whereas coordinated gas-phase photochemistry and aqueous-phase reactions likely played significant roles in quick daytime SOA formations, and nitrate radicals played significant roles in nighttime SOA formations.
Junhua Wang, Baozhu Ge, Xueshun Chen, Jie Li, Keding Lu, Yayuan Dong, Lei Kong, Zifa Wang, and Yuanhang Zhang
Geosci. Model Dev. Discuss., https://doi.org/10.5194/gmd-2023-22, https://doi.org/10.5194/gmd-2023-22, 2023
Revised manuscript not accepted
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We developed a quantitative decoupling analysis (QDA) method to quantify the contributions of emissions, meteorology, chemical reactions, and their nonlinear interactions on PM2.5. We found the effects of adverse meteorological conditions and the importance of nonlinear interactions. This method can provide valuable information for understanding of key factors to heavy pollution, but also help the modelers to find out the sources of uncertainties in numerical models.
Shixian Zhai, Daniel J. Jacob, Drew C. Pendergrass, Nadia K. Colombi, Viral Shah, Laura Hyesung Yang, Qiang Zhang, Shuxiao Wang, Hwajin Kim, Yele Sun, Jin-Soo Choi, Jin-Soo Park, Gan Luo, Fangqun Yu, Jung-Hun Woo, Younha Kim, Jack E. Dibb, Taehyoung Lee, Jin-Seok Han, Bruce E. Anderson, Ke Li, and Hong Liao
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 23, 4271–4281, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-4271-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-4271-2023, 2023
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Anthropogenic fugitive dust in East Asia not only causes severe coarse particulate matter air pollution problems, but also affects fine particulate nitrate. Due to emission control efforts, coarse PM decreased steadily. We find that the decrease of coarse PM is a major driver for a lack of decrease of fine particulate nitrate, as it allows more nitric acid to form fine particulate nitrate. The continuing decrease of coarse PM requires more stringent ammonia and nitrogen oxides emission controls.
Shujun Zhong, Shuang Chen, Junjun Deng, Yanbing Fan, Qiang Zhang, Qiaorong Xie, Yulin Qi, Wei Hu, Libin Wu, Xiaodong Li, Chandra Mouli Pavuluri, Jialei Zhu, Xin Wang, Di Liu, Xiaole Pan, Yele Sun, Zifa Wang, Yisheng Xu, Haijie Tong, Hang Su, Yafang Cheng, Kimitaka Kawamura, and Pingqing Fu
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 23, 2061–2077, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-2061-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-23-2061-2023, 2023
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This study investigated the role of the secondary organic aerosol (SOA) loading on the molecular composition of wintertime urban aerosols by ultrahigh-resolution mass spectrometry. Results demonstrate that the SOA loading is an important factor associated with the oxidation degree, nitrate group content, and chemodiversity of nitrooxy–organosulfates. Our study also found that the hydrolysis of nitrooxy–organosulfates is a possible pathway for the formation of organosulfates.
Yuying Wang, Rong Hu, Qiuyan Wang, Zhanqing Li, Maureen Cribb, Yele Sun, Xiaorui Song, Yi Shang, Yixuan Wu, Xin Huang, and Yuxiang Wang
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 22, 14133–14146, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-14133-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-14133-2022, 2022
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The mixing state of size-resolved soot particles and their influencing factors were investigated. The results suggest anthropogenic emissions and aging processes have diverse impacts on the mixing state of soot particles in different modes. Considering that the mixing state of soot particles is crucial to model aerosol absorption, this finding is important to study particle growth and the warming effect of black carbon aerosols.
Futing Wang, Ting Yang, Zifa Wang, Haibo Wang, Xi Chen, Yele Sun, Jianjun Li, Guigang Tang, and Wenxuan Chai
Atmos. Meas. Tech., 15, 6127–6144, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-15-6127-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-15-6127-2022, 2022
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We develop a new algorithm to get the vertical mass concentration profiles of fine aerosol components based on the synergy of ground-based remote sensing for the first time. The comparisons with in situ observations and chemistry transport models validate the performance of the algorithm. Uncertainties caused by input parameters are also assessed in this paper. We expected that the algorithm can provide a new idea for lidar inversion and promote the development of aerosol component profiles.
Biao Luo, Ye Kuang, Shan Huang, Qicong Song, Weiwei Hu, Wei Li, Yuwen Peng, Duohong Chen, Dingli Yue, Bin Yuan, and Min Shao
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 22, 12401–12415, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-12401-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-12401-2022, 2022
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We performed comprehensive analysis on biomass burning organic aerosol (BBOA) size distributions, as well as mass scattering and absorption efficiencies, with an improved method of on-line quantification of brown carbon absorptions. Both BBOA volume size distribution and retrieved refractive index depend highly on combustion conditions represented by the black carbon content, which has significant implications for BBOA climate effect simulations.
Chao Yan, Yicheng Shen, Dominik Stolzenburg, Lubna Dada, Ximeng Qi, Simo Hakala, Anu-Maija Sundström, Yishuo Guo, Antti Lipponen, Tom V. Kokkonen, Jenni Kontkanen, Runlong Cai, Jing Cai, Tommy Chan, Liangduo Chen, Biwu Chu, Chenjuan Deng, Wei Du, Xiaolong Fan, Xu-Cheng He, Juha Kangasluoma, Joni Kujansuu, Mona Kurppa, Chang Li, Yiran Li, Zhuohui Lin, Yiliang Liu, Yuliang Liu, Yiqun Lu, Wei Nie, Jouni Pulliainen, Xiaohui Qiao, Yonghong Wang, Yifan Wen, Ye Wu, Gan Yang, Lei Yao, Rujing Yin, Gen Zhang, Shaojun Zhang, Feixue Zheng, Ying Zhou, Antti Arola, Johanna Tamminen, Pauli Paasonen, Yele Sun, Lin Wang, Neil M. Donahue, Yongchun Liu, Federico Bianchi, Kaspar R. Daellenbach, Douglas R. Worsnop, Veli-Matti Kerminen, Tuukka Petäjä, Aijun Ding, Jingkun Jiang, and Markku Kulmala
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 22, 12207–12220, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-12207-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-12207-2022, 2022
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Atmospheric new particle formation (NPF) is a dominant source of atmospheric ultrafine particles. In urban environments, traffic emissions are a major source of primary pollutants, but their contribution to NPF remains under debate. During the COVID-19 lockdown, traffic emissions were significantly reduced, providing a unique chance to examine their relevance to NPF. Based on our comprehensive measurements, we demonstrate that traffic emissions alone are not able to explain the NPF in Beijing.
Mengying Li, Shaocai Yu, Xue Chen, Zhen Li, Yibo Zhang, Zhe Song, Weiping Liu, Pengfei Li, Xiaoye Zhang, Meigen Zhang, Yele Sun, Zirui Liu, Caiping Sun, Jingkun Jiang, Shuxiao Wang, Benjamin N. Murphy, Kiran Alapaty, Rohit Mathur, Daniel Rosenfeld, and John H. Seinfeld
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 22, 11845–11866, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-11845-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-11845-2022, 2022
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This study constructed an emission inventory of condensable particulate matter (CPM) in China with a focus on organic aerosols (OAs), based on collected CPM emission information. The results show that OA emissions are enhanced twofold for the years 2014 and 2017 after the inclusion of CPM in the new inventory. Sensitivity cases demonstrated the significant contributions of CPM emissions from stationary combustion and mobile sources to primary, secondary, and total OA concentrations.
Lichao Yang, Wansuo Duan, Zifa Wang, and Wenyi Yang
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 22, 11429–11453, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-11429-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-11429-2022, 2022
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The initial meteorological state has a great impact on PM2.5 forecasts. Assimilating additional observations is an effective way to improve the accuracy of the initial meteorological state. Here we used an advanced optimization approach to identify where we should preferentially place the meteorological observations associated with PM2.5 forecasts in the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei region of China. We provide evidence that the target observation strategy is effective for improving PM2.5 forecasts.
Zhiqiang Zhang, Yele Sun, Chun Chen, Bo You, Aodong Du, Weiqi Xu, Yan Li, Zhijie Li, Lu Lei, Wei Zhou, Jiaxing Sun, Yanmei Qiu, Lianfang Wei, Pingqing Fu, and Zifa Wang
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 22, 10409–10423, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-10409-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-10409-2022, 2022
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We present a comprehensive characterization of water-soluble organic aerosol and the first mass spectral characterization of water-insoluble organic aerosol in the cold season in Beijing by integrating online and offline aerosol mass spectrometer measurements. WSOA comprised dominantly secondary OA and showed large changes during the transition season from autumn to winter. WIOA was characterized by prominent hydrocarbon ions series, low oxidation states, and significant day–night differences.
Haobin Zhong, Ru-Jin Huang, Chunshui Lin, Wei Xu, Jing Duan, Yifang Gu, Wei Huang, Haiyan Ni, Chongshu Zhu, Yan You, Yunfei Wu, Renjian Zhang, Jurgita Ovadnevaite, Darius Ceburnis, and Colin D. O'Dowd
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 22, 9513–9524, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-9513-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-9513-2022, 2022
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To investigate the physico-chemical properties of aerosol transported from major pollution regions in China, observations were conducted ~200 m above the ground at the junction location of the two key pollution areas. We found that the formation efficiency, oxidation state and production rate of secondary aerosol were different in the transport sectors from different pollution regions, and they were largely enhanced by the regional long-distance transport.
Li Liu, Ye Kuang, Miaomiao Zhai, Biao Xue, Yao He, Jun Tao, Biao Luo, Wanyun Xu, Jiangchuan Tao, Changqin Yin, Fei Li, Hanbing Xu, Tao Deng, Xuejiao Deng, Haobo Tan, and Min Shao
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 22, 7713–7726, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-7713-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-7713-2022, 2022
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Using simultaneous measurements of a humidified nephelometer system and an aerosol chemical speciation monitor in winter in Guangzhou, the strongest scattering ability of more oxidized oxygenated organic aerosol (MOOA) among aerosol components considering their dry-state scattering ability and water uptake ability was revealed, leading to large impacts of MOOA on visibility degradation. This has important implications for visibility improvement in China and aerosol radiative effect simulation.
Jiaxing Sun, Yele Sun, Conghui Xie, Weiqi Xu, Chun Chen, Zhe Wang, Lei Li, Xubing Du, Fugui Huang, Yan Li, Zhijie Li, Xiaole Pan, Nan Ma, Wanyun Xu, Pingqing Fu, and Zifa Wang
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 22, 7619–7630, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-7619-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-7619-2022, 2022
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We analyzed the chemical composition and mixing state of BC-containing particles at urban and rural sites in winter in the North China Plain and evaluated their impact on light absorption enhancement. BC was dominantly mixed with organic carbon, nitrate, and sulfate, and the mixing state evolved significantly as a function of relative humidity (RH) at both sites. The absorption enhancement depended strongly on coated secondary inorganic aerosol and was up to ~1.3–1.4 during aging processes.
Xueli Liu, Liang Ran, Weili Lin, Xiaobin Xu, Zhiqiang Ma, Fan Dong, Di He, Liyan Zhou, Qingfeng Shi, and Yao Wang
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 22, 7071–7085, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-7071-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-7071-2022, 2022
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Significant decreases in annual mean NOx from 2011 to 2016 and SO2 from 2008 to 2016 confirm the effectiveness of relevant control measures on the reduction in NOx and SO2 emissions in the North China Plain (NCP). NOx at SDZ had a weaker influence than SO2 on the emission reduction in Beijing and other areas in the NCP. An increase in the number of motor vehicles and weak traffic restrictions have caused vehicle emissions of NOx, which indicates that NOx emission control should be strengthened.
Junjun Deng, Hao Ma, Xinfeng Wang, Shujun Zhong, Zhimin Zhang, Jialei Zhu, Yanbing Fan, Wei Hu, Libin Wu, Xiaodong Li, Lujie Ren, Chandra Mouli Pavuluri, Xiaole Pan, Yele Sun, Zifa Wang, Kimitaka Kawamura, and Pingqing Fu
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 22, 6449–6470, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-6449-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-6449-2022, 2022
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Light-absorbing brown carbon (BrC) plays an important role in climate change and atmospheric chemistry. Here we investigated the seasonal and diurnal variations in water-soluble BrC in PM2.5 in the megacity Tianjin in coastal China. Results of the source apportionments from the combination with organic molecular compositions and optical properties of water-soluble BrC reveal a large contribution from primary bioaerosol particles to BrC in the urban atmosphere.
Liang Ran, Zhaoze Deng, Yunfei Wu, Jiwei Li, Zhixuan Bai, Ye Lu, Deqing Zhuoga, and Jianchun Bian
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 22, 6217–6229, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-6217-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-6217-2022, 2022
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The Tibetan Plateau (TP), the highest plateau in the world, plays a crucial role in regional and global climate. To examine the fingerprint left by human activities on the originally remote atmosphere, size distributions of particles from the ground to about 800 m were measured for the first time in summer 2020 in Lhasa, one of a few urbanized cities on TP. Potential sources of particles at different heights were explored. The contribution of emissions from religious activities was highlighted.
Haibo Wang, Ting Yang, Zifa Wang, Jianjun Li, Wenxuan Chai, Guigang Tang, Lei Kong, and Xueshun Chen
Geosci. Model Dev., 15, 3555–3585, https://doi.org/10.5194/gmd-15-3555-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/gmd-15-3555-2022, 2022
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In this paper, we develop an online data coupled assimilation system (NAQPMS-PDAF) with the Eulerian atmospheric chemistry-transport model. NAQPMS-PDAF allows efficient use of large computational resources. The application and performance of the system are investigated by assimilating 1 month of vertical aerosol observations. The results show that NAQPMS-PDAF can significantly improve the performance of aerosol vertical structure simulation and reduce the uncertainty to a large extent.
Jingnan Shi, Juan Hong, Nan Ma, Qingwei Luo, Yao He, Hanbing Xu, Haobo Tan, Qiaoqiao Wang, Jiangchuan Tao, Yaqing Zhou, Shuang Han, Long Peng, Linhong Xie, Guangsheng Zhou, Wanyun Xu, Yele Sun, Yafang Cheng, and Hang Su
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 22, 4599–4613, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-4599-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-4599-2022, 2022
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In this study, we investigated the hygroscopicity of submicron aerosols at a rural site in the North China Plain during the winter of 2018, using a HTDMA and a CV-ToF-ACSM. We observed differences in aerosol hygroscopicity during two distinct episodes with different primary emissions and secondary aerosol formation processes. These results provide an improved understanding of the complex influence of sources and aerosol evolution processes on their hygroscopicity.
Jing Cai, Cheng Wu, Jiandong Wang, Wei Du, Feixue Zheng, Simo Hakala, Xiaolong Fan, Biwu Chu, Lei Yao, Zemin Feng, Yongchun Liu, Yele Sun, Jun Zheng, Chao Yan, Federico Bianchi, Markku Kulmala, Claudia Mohr, and Kaspar R. Daellenbach
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 22, 1251–1269, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-1251-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-1251-2022, 2022
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This study investigates the connection between organic aerosol (OA) molecular composition and particle absorptive properties in autumn in Beijing. We find that the molecular properties of OA compounds in different episodes influence particle light absorption properties differently: the light absorption enhancement of black carbon and light absorption coefficient of brown carbon were mostly related to more oxygenated OA (low C number and four O atoms) and aromatics/nitro-aromatics, respectively.
Jiaxing Sun, Zhe Wang, Wei Zhou, Conghui Xie, Cheng Wu, Chun Chen, Tingting Han, Qingqing Wang, Zhijie Li, Jie Li, Pingqing Fu, Zifa Wang, and Yele Sun
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 22, 561–575, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-561-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-22-561-2022, 2022
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We analyzed 9-year measurements of BC and aerosol optical properties from 2012 to 2020 in Beijing, China. Our results showed large reductions in BC and light extinction coefficient due to the Clean Air Action Plan. As a response, both SSA and mass extinction efficiency (MEE) showed considerable increases, demonstrating a future challenge in visibility improvement. The primary and secondary BrC was also separated and quantified, and the changes in radiative forcing of BC and BrC were estimated.
Qian Ye, Jie Li, Xueshun Chen, Huansheng Chen, Wenyi Yang, Huiyun Du, Xiaole Pan, Xiao Tang, Wei Wang, Lili Zhu, Jianjun Li, Zhe Wang, and Zifa Wang
Geosci. Model Dev., 14, 7573–7604, https://doi.org/10.5194/gmd-14-7573-2021, https://doi.org/10.5194/gmd-14-7573-2021, 2021
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We developed a global tropospheric atmospheric chemistry source–receptor model. This model can quantify the contributions of multiple air pollutants from various source regions in one simulation without introducing the nonlinear error of atmospheric chemistry. The S-R relationships of PM2.5 and O3 from a global high-resolution (0.5° × 0.5°) simulation were given and compared with previous studies. This model will be useful for creating a link between the scientific community and policymakers.
Yuting Zhang, Hang Liu, Shandong Lei, Wanyun Xu, Yu Tian, Weijie Yao, Xiaoyong Liu, Qi Liao, Jie Li, Chun Chen, Yele Sun, Pingqing Fu, Jinyuan Xin, Junji Cao, Xiaole Pan, and Zifa Wang
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 21, 17631–17648, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-17631-2021, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-17631-2021, 2021
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In this study, the authors used a single-particle soot photometer (SP2) to characterize the particle size, mixing state, and optical properties of black carbon aerosols in rural areas of the North China Plain in winter. Relatively warm and high-RH environments (RH > 50 %, −4° < T < 4 °) were more favorable to rBC aging than dry and cold environments (RH < 60 %, T < −8°). The paper emphasizes the importance of meteorological parameters in the mixing state of black carbon.
Quan Liu, Dantong Liu, Yangzhou Wu, Kai Bi, Wenkang Gao, Ping Tian, Delong Zhao, Siyuan Li, Chenjie Yu, Guiqian Tang, Yunfei Wu, Kang Hu, Shuo Ding, Qian Gao, Fei Wang, Shaofei Kong, Hui He, Mengyu Huang, and Deping Ding
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 21, 14749–14760, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-14749-2021, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-14749-2021, 2021
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Through simultaneous online measurements of detailed aerosol compositions at both surface and surface-influenced mountain sites, the evolution of aerosol composition during daytime vertical transport was investigated. The results show that, from surface to the top of the planetary boundary layer, the oxidation state of organic aerosol had been significantly enhanced due to evaporation and further oxidation of these evaporated gases.
Sihui Jiang, Fang Zhang, Jingye Ren, Lu Chen, Xing Yan, Jieyao Liu, Yele Sun, and Zhanqing Li
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 21, 14293–14308, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-14293-2021, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-14293-2021, 2021
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New particle formation (NPF) can be a large source of CCN and affect weather and climate. Here we show that the NPF contributes largely to cloud droplet number concentration (Nd) but is suppressed at high particle number concentrations in Beijing due to water vapor competition. We also reveal a considerable impact of primary sources on the evaluation in the urban atmosphere. Our study has great significance for assessing NPF-associated effects on climate in polluted regions.
Junhua Wang, Baozhu Ge, Xueshun Chen, Jie Li, Keding Lu, Yayuan Dong, Lei Kong, Zifa Wang, and Yuanhang Zhang
Geosci. Model Dev. Discuss., https://doi.org/10.5194/gmd-2021-259, https://doi.org/10.5194/gmd-2021-259, 2021
Revised manuscript not accepted
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This paper developed a novel quantitative decoupling analysis (QDA) method to quantify the contributions of emission, meteorology, chemical reaction, and their nonlinear interactions on PM2.5 and applied it to a pollution episode in Beijing. This method can provides the researchers and policy makers with valuable information for understanding of key factors to heavy pollution, but also help the modelers to find out the sources of uncertainties among numerical models.
Hong Ren, Wei Hu, Lianfang Wei, Siyao Yue, Jian Zhao, Linjie Li, Libin Wu, Wanyu Zhao, Lujie Ren, Mingjie Kang, Qiaorong Xie, Sihui Su, Xiaole Pan, Zifa Wang, Yele Sun, Kimitaka Kawamura, and Pingqing Fu
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 21, 12949–12963, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-12949-2021, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-12949-2021, 2021
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This study presents vertical profiles of biogenic and anthropogenic secondary organic aerosols (SOAs) in the urban boundary layer based on a 325 m tower in Beijing in late summer. The increases in the isoprene and toluene SOAs with height were found to be more related to regional transport, whereas the decrease in those from monoterpenes and sesquiterpene were more subject to local emissions. Such complicated vertical distributions of SOA should be considered in future modeling work.
Yang Yang, Minqiang Zhou, Ting Wang, Bo Yao, Pengfei Han, Denghui Ji, Wei Zhou, Yele Sun, Gengchen Wang, and Pucai Wang
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 21, 11741–11757, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-11741-2021, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-11741-2021, 2021
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This study introduces the in situ CO2 measurement system installed in Beijing (urban), Xianghe (suburban), and Xinglong (rural) in North China for the first time. The spatial and temporal variations in CO2 mole fractions at the three sites between June 2018 and April 2020 are discussed on both seasonal and diurnal scales.
Qiaorong Xie, Sihui Su, Jing Chen, Yuqing Dai, Siyao Yue, Hang Su, Haijie Tong, Wanyu Zhao, Lujie Ren, Yisheng Xu, Dong Cao, Ying Li, Yele Sun, Zifa Wang, Cong-Qiang Liu, Kimitaka Kawamura, Guibin Jiang, Yafang Cheng, and Pingqing Fu
Atmos. Chem. Phys., 21, 11453–11465, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-11453-2021, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-21-11453-2021, 2021
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This study investigated the role of nighttime chemistry during Chinese New Year's Eve that enhances the formation of nitrooxy organosulfates in the aerosol phase. Results show that anthropogenic precursors, together with biogenic ones, considerably contribute to the formation of low-volatility nitrooxy OSs. Our study provides detailed molecular composition of firework-related aerosols, which gives new insights into the physicochemical properties and potential health effects of urban aerosols.
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Short summary
NPF (new particle formation) is a key global CCN (cloud condensation nuclei) source, but its contribution at the polluted boundary-layer top remains unclear. Based on mountaintop observations in the Yangtze River Delta, we show that under polluted conditions, NPF at the boundary-layer top is enhanced and accelerates its conversion to CCN. Ammonia plays a key role, and a newly defined "Time Window" metric highlights the importance of oxidation-driven growth and regional transport in this process.
NPF (new particle formation) is a key global CCN (cloud condensation nuclei) source, but its...
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