Harmonizing elemental carbon (EC) and organic carbon (OC) measurement methods across Europe is essential for standardized air quality data. The reference method (EN 16909) is accurate but time-consuming, prompting the need for automated alternatives. The CEN/TR 18076 report provides guidance on assessing the equivalency of automatic methods to EN 16909. An intercomparison campaign at ACTRIS SIRTA in early 2025 tested TC-BC methods against standard 24h offline filters. These efforts support the development of automated, reliable EC/OC monitoring for regulatory use.

The assignment of total carbon to organic and elemental carbon via thermal-optical analysis is influenced by various parameters set prior and after the measurement. Here, we focus on the bias introduced by the co-occurrence of mineral dust in PM₁₀ and snow samples collected at the Global Atmosphere Watch station Sonnblick Observatory between 2019 and 2024. We review the data, identify affected samples and assess the underestimation of elemental carbon by routine protocols for evaluation. Utilizing this interference, we estimate the mineral dust mass directly from thermal-optical analysis data.

This work uses geostationary satellite GOES-16 data from 2020 to 2022 to study fire patterns and emissions in the southern Amazon. The Fire/Hotspot Characterization algorithm processes GOES-16's Advanced Baseline Imager data, providing insights into fire dynamics with an unparalleled temporal resolution of 10 minutes. This approach allows for retrieving accurate temporal evolution of fire radiative power (FRP) and emission estimates compared to previous efforts based on polar satellites.

Black carbon (BC) is a significant component of atmospheric aerosols, heavily influencing air quality, human health, and climate forcing. The need for real-time, spatially resolved BC measurements—especially in urban areas and near emission sources—highlights the importance of portable, cost-effective sensors. This study evaluates a novel portable optoacoustic BC sensor for exhaust applications, in lab conditions. Controlled experiments assess its sensitivity, accuracy, and stability. Results indicate that the sensor is a promising low-cost alternative for field monitoring, particularly in near-source and exhaust emission studies.

The UFP number concentration and number size distribution have been measured at an urban background site in Wildau (Brandenburg, Germany) during the entire year 2024. The employed measurement devices included a Condensation Particle Counter (Grimm 5421-CEN), fully compliant with EN16976 and a Mobility Particle Size Spectrometer (Grimm SMPS+C 5420-CEN) according to CEN/TS 17434. In addition, a Partector 2 and Partector 2 Pro (naneos) were employed as simplified methods to measure the number concentration and size distribution, respectively. The results show that all devices can reliably be applied with reasonably good comparability of the results.

In the context of the project “MITIGATING TRANSPORT-RELATED AIR POLLUTION IN EUROPE (MI-TRAP)”, an MPSS calibration workshop took place in Prague, Czech Republic from November 25, 2024 to December 2, 2024. One of the participating instruments (a negative polarity MPSS) displayed significant difference (~25%) from the reference MPSS (positive polarity). A regularization based inversion method was applied so as to harmonize measurements acquired by the participating instrument with those obtained from a reference instrument.

Faraday Cup Aerosol Electrometers (FCAE) are the preferred reference instrument for CPCs used stand alone or used as detector in an MPSS setup. So far, the standard method to calibrate FCAE involves rather extensive and stationary instrumentation, involving high precision laboratory-based instrumentation, mostly only available at dedicated national metrology institutes that also have specialized in the field of low current measurement. Here we present data and the use of a commercially available Ultra-stable Low-noise Current Amplifier (ULCA) for the calibration of a GRIMM FCE 5705, teamed up with the newly developed GRIMM FCE Controller 5704.

Condensation Particle Counters (CPCs) are widely-used instruments for atmospheric measurements of the particle number (PN) concentration. EN 16976:2024 compliant CPC work with butanol and have D50 of 10 nm. A water-based V-WCPC (3789) allows custom temperature settings and was calibrated. It was found that the different temperature settings from calibrations with sucrose and silver (in N₂) particles were different and then used to measure ambient aerosol with 3 units of V-WCPC and in parallel with a fully compliant CPC (3750-CEN10). They show an overall good agreement for ambient air in Aachen when using the sucrose-based calibration for the V-WCPC.

Dust in the Arctic is an emerging topic related to climate and environmental impacts. Here we give an overview of our recent understanding on dust emissions and their long-range transport routes, deposition, and ecosystem effects in the Arctic.

We investigate the potential of wildfires to emit soil-dust particles on a global scale using a newly developed parameterization that was implemented into the aerosol-climate model ICON-HAM. This work is embedded in the newly established Leibniz ScienceCampus ‘BioSmoke’ (smoke and bioaerosols in a changing climate) linking the interplay of wildfires, atmosphere and biosphere in the context of climate and environmental change.

Saharan dust events significantly impact photovoltaic power forecasting in Hungary, where solar energy plays an increasing role. Analyzing 46 dust storms (2020–2023), this study finds that forecast errors were 30.9% larger on dusty days. Indirect effects, particularly dust-induced cloud modifications, were more influential than direct radiative reduction. Extensive cirrus cover caused production deficits, while unexpected cloud dissipation led to surplus generation. As dust storm frequency rises due to shifting atmospheric patterns, current forecasting models fail to account for real-time dust-cloud interactions. Improved forecasts integrating real-time dust transport data and cloud physics are essential for grid stability and renewable energy reliability.

Atmospheric aerosol deposition supplies essential micronutrients like iron to oceans, influencing marine ecosystems and carbon sequestration. While desert dust is the primary source, its bioavailability is low compared to anthropogenic emissions, such as pyrogenic iron. This study presents preliminary data from a 2024 Indian-Ocean ship cruise using a single-particle mass spectrometer with resonant laser ionization, enabling sensitive detection of transition metals. SPMS identified thousands of particles from long-range transport, including anthropogenic sources, with diverse compositions reflecting varied origins and aging processes. The findings highlight a potentially underestimated role of anthropogenic aerosols in biogeochemical cycles, underscoring the need for further research.

Nocturnal turbulence influences the transport and dispersion of ultrafine particles (UFP, <100nm), particularly in suburban environments, where local sources and meteorological conditions interact. At the CIRAS measurement site, the study examines how turbulent fluxes and atmospheric stability affect nanoparticle oscillations during nighttime hours, providing insights into their variability and underlying dynamics. Measurements were conducted from late September to mid-November 2023, using a Fast Mobility Particle Sizer (TSI FMPS), a Mixing-type Condensation Particle Counter (Brechtel MCPC1720), and an ultrasonic anemometer (Metek usonic-3). During the campaign, two subsets of nanoparticle oscillations were observed between (identified as Periods A and B).

A catalytic stripper integrated with a plate electrostatic aerosol classifier (CS+EAC) was designed. The electric field force within the EAC reduces the influence of thermophoretic forces on particles, resulting in improved particle penetration efficiency. The experimental results show that the penetration efficiencies of 23 nm-100 nm particles are all improved when 168 V is applied to the EAC. The 33% improvement at 23 nm and the smoother penetration efficiency curve across the 23–100 nm range will enable the portable emission measurement system (PEMS) to derive a particle concentration reduction factor that facilitates more accurate inversion of particle number concentration.

We present results from a study that quantifies the contribution of road transport and local airports to UFP concentrations in Berlin and surroundings. The set-up is a combination of measurements and modelling. An elaborate measurement campaign was made in 2021/2022 including long-term stationary measurements close to the airport, car and bicycle based mobile measurements and ALADINA drone measurements. The model set-up is a combination of regional and local dispersion model modeling, separating source contributions. Good statistical correspondence between modelled and observed particle number concentrations was found.

Black Carbon (BC) plays a key role in the earth's system, with a strong positive radiative forcing. Human exposure to BC is associated with adverse health effects. Accurate bottom-up estimates of BC emissions are challenged by wildfire occurrence, changes in energy mix, and combustion technologies. Therefore, a comprehensive BC emission inventory is needed for a good understanding of the radiative forcing and associated climate feedback and to develop any successful mitigation strategies/policies. Under the Horizon Europe project PARIS, in collaboration with the sister project EYE-CLIMA, we aim to provide a top-down, observation-informed estimate of European BC emissions.

Black carbon (BC) significantly impacts Earth’s radiative balance and public health. This study developed a comprehensive modeling system to forecast BC concentrations in Velenje, Slovenia. The system integrates data from Aethalometers AE33 and AE36s, a meteorological forecast, a traffic model, and BC emission factors into a dispersion model. Traffic flow simulations and on-road measurements defined emission factors for different vehicle categories (cars, light-duty vehicles, heavy-duty vehicles, and buses). The GRAL model calculated BC_LF dispersion, and the ALADIN model provided meteorological forecasts. The methodology was validated with a year-long dataset, demonstrating its potential to enhance urban planning and pollution control.

The study investigates the impacts of air pollution in Almaty, the biggest city of Kazakhstan, on the surrounding mountain areas, including glaciers. For this, the WRF-CHIMERE model was evaluated using meteorological observations and BC measurements. Results indicated that the BC vertical profiles show that although the concentrations in Almaty are lower in summer compared to winter periods, the BC from the city is more effectively transported to the mountain tops. Additionally, model runs were conducted to quantify the impact of reduced black carbon emissions on the overall mountain circulation regime.

This study addresses the need for real-time source apportionment (RT-SA) to improve responses to acute pollution events. Traditional SA methods have limitations, including low time resolution and delayed post-analysis. This research implements two RT-SA models in four Chinese cities (Xi’an, Chongqing, Beijing, and Wuhan), using a combination of ACSM, Xact 625, and Aethalometer instruments to quantify PM sources. A newly developed RT-SA software, alongside SoFi RT. RT SA enables near-instantaneous identification of organic and inorganic PM fractions. Comparison with state-of-the-art techniques confirms their reliability, demonstrating RT-SA’s potential for real-time air quality monitoring and improved urban pollution mitigation strategies.

The aim of this work was to study the diurnal variation of elemental components, black carbon and sources of PM_2.5 as well as their size-distribution in Debrecen, Hungary. PM were collected with two-stage PIXE International sequential “streaker”. During some campaigns, an Aethalometer and an OPS were also used. The elemental composition of the samples was determined by PIXE at INFN LABEC. SA was performed on obtained data using PMF model. The main advantage of combining the applied methods is that it can enhance our understanding of the sources of PM and their effects on different size fractions of PM_2.5.

A source apportionment of the urban-background site of Lecce, Italy, was realised using aerosol physical properties such as size distributions and aerosol absorption data from 2016–2017. Results were compared with chemical PMF analysis performed in the same period. The study highlights the strengths of physical PMF in capturing ultrafine particle dynamics and traffic-related emissions with a fine time resolution but notes its limitations in distinguishing biomass burning from fossil fuels. Overall, physical PMF complements chemical PMF, offering advantages such as real-time monitoring and simpler data collection, making it a valuable tool for air quality assessment.

Traffic remains an important source of particulate matter with non-exhaust currently estimated to make up a greater proportion of vehicle emission by mass than exhaust. The new Euro 7 standard will include non-exhaust emissions; to assess its impact it is crucial to have a good understanding of current emissions.

Here we utilise the high time resolution aerosol measurements to carry out source apportionment, which is combined with machine learning and NO₂/CO₂ dilution approaches to estimate non-exhaust emission factors.

Preliminary results show that 7.9%, 2.0% and 2.3% of PM₁₀ at the roadside is brake, tyre & road and train wear, respectively.

This study applies advanced receptor modeling using the multilinear engine (ME-2) within Positive Matrix Factorization (PMF) to apportion PM_2.5 sources in the Los Angeles Basin. Unlike Aethalometer optical method, this approach extracts source-specific Absorption Ångström Exponents (AAE) without a priori assumptions. A comprehensive PM_2.5 chemical dataset and multi-wavelength absorption coefficients were analyzed at urban (CELA) and suburban (RIVR) sites. Five-source factors were identified, with secondary sulfate and nitrate dominating PM_2.5 mass. Source-dependent AAE values varied by location, ranging from 1.24 to 3.0, highlighting differences in emission sources and atmospheric processes between traffic-dominated urban areas and suburban environments.

To better characterize Organic aerosol (OA) sources, online measurements from the Aerosol Chemical Speciation Monitor and organic tracer analyses were carried out in 2019 at two urban background sites in France (Lyon and Bordeaux) and combined using the novel “multi-time” Positive Matrix Factorization (PMF) approach. This analysis separated secondary sources from biogenic and anthropogenic emissions. It also highlighted local sources, identifying cooking in Lyon and a marine source of OA in Talence, and provided a more accurate contribution from primary sources, which are underestimated in individual online PMF.

We developed a completely novel multi-time and multi-size resolution PMF (MTMS-PMF) implemented in a script for the Multilinear Engine ME-2 program. This cutting-edge model is an expansion of the PMF and allows the analysis of data measured at different time resolutions in multiple size classes. Moreover, both size-segregated data and PM_X data can be inserted at the same time in the model. As output, the MTMS-PMF provides size-segregated chemical profiles and factor temporal contributions retrieved at the highest temporal resolution available in the dataset. The MTMS-PMF was successfully tested on a large dataset collected in the Po Valley (Ferrara, Italy).

In the study, chemical compositions and OP of PM₁₀ and PM_2.5 were observed at an urban background, urban traffic and train station sites in Reims (France), that are located 5km apart. The 24-hour sampling was taken in winter and summer. A wide range of chemicals was analyzed (carbonaceous, major ions, elements, alcohol sugars, organic acids), OP assays: AA, DTT, OH. These species were used to perform a PM SA, followed by OP SA for both PM fractions.The inter-comparison of PM and OP SA results provide the PM and OP sources according to PM characteristics, receptor site and sampling period

The Working Group of the Italian Aerosol Society worked for having collected PM10 mass and chemical composition data throughout Italy. The dataset was aggregated with seasonal temporal resolution from 2005-2016 and had a heterogeneous origin related to urban sites of large and medium-sized cities in the Po Valley, inland or coastal areas. The collected dataset allowed to assess differences in chemical composition among cities and by different geographical features: for example the Po Valley with respect to the rest of our Peninsula, relating to secondary inorganic compounds.The collection of more PM chemical composition data was extended to recent years.

This study aims to compare the chemical composition of PM2.5 samples from two sites in northern France: an urban-industrial site (Fort-Mardyck) and a rural site (Steene). The origins and the variations in concentrations of chemical components were examined using different tools including concentration roses, conditional bivariate probability function (CBPF), diagnostic ratios, and clustering of HYSPLIT backward trajectories. This study highlights the distinct chemical signature of PM2.5 at the urban-industrial site, characterized by higher concentrations of carbonaceous species and trace metals associated with industrial activities, compared to the rural site.

This study investigated the potential impacts of ship emissions on ambient PM_2.5 in a metro-harbour complex under various meteorological conditions. The research used a WRF-Chem model to simulate multiple days with elevated PM_2.5 levels, revealing a strong correlation between PM_2.5 concentrations and meteorological patterns, during the Asian Northeastern Mon-soons (ANMs) during winter and spring and sea-land breezes (SLBs) in summer. Wind field simulations showed the influences of ANMs and SLBs, exacerbated by coastal topography and wind patterns. Diurnal air temperature variations intensified sea breezes in warm seasons.

Reactive losses of atmospheric VOCs play important roles in the formation of ozone and secondary organic aerosol (SOA) However, identification of the sources of those VOCs most responsible for the formation of these secondary pollutants is difficult., but essential to produce effective control strategies. VOC apportionment based on measured concentrations has been done for many years and PMF is now the most commonly used tool. Recent work has shown that the "initial concentration", that which would have been present in the abssence of reactions can be calculated and apportioned. The difference is the consumed VOCs than can then apportion SOA.

Particulate matter (PM) exposure is linked to premature mortality and morbidity, making source identification crucial for PM emissions control. Organic aerosols (OA) form a major PM fraction, with secondary OA (SOA) potentially more harmful. Barcelona and Athens, impacted by high population density, intense sunlight, and low rainfall, face severe air pollution. While previous studies identified SOA seasonality, sources remain unclear. To investigate this, we analyzed 180 PM2.5 and 180 PM10 filters (2022–2023) using advanced mass spectrometry (EESI-LToF, AMS-LToF) and positive matrix factorization analysis. Our study identifies OA sources driving fine and coarse particulate variations in these Mediterranean cities.

Munich, a major German city, faces air quality challenges with only limited aerosol studies available. Previous research identified traffic, biomass burning, and cooking as key aerosol sources, yet gaps remain in understanding volatile organic compound (VOC) and organic aerosol (OA) origins and seasonal variations. This study aims to elucidate these sources, enhancing air quality management and public health in Munich. In this study, we examine the seasonal variability of OA and VOC chemical composition at a molecular level, aiming to elucidate the contribution of different sources to major VOC, semi volatile organic aerosol (SVOA) and total OA.

South America is the largest contributor to global biogenic emissions, with vast pristine areas undergoing rapid urbanization, deforestation, and biomass burning. This study used online chemical ionization mass spectrometry at a Bolivian Andes station and Positive Matrix Factorization to analyze organic aerosols from diverse biomes. Five PMF factors were identified, revealing that Amazon air masses are dominated by isoprene SOA, while tropical and mountain grasslands contain longer-chain BVOC-SOA. Organic nitrates increase with population density. Urban emissions and volcanic SO₂ influence aerosol composition, highlighting the strong impact of human activities and volcanic processes on atmospheric chemistry.

PM2.5 samples were collected simultaneously during winter and summer 2021 at three Central European sites—Melpitz (Germany), Kosetice, and Frydlant (Czech Republic)—to assess regional aerosol sources and transport pathways. Winter data showed higher contributions from biomass burning and coal combustion, with Frydlant exhibiting the highest coal combustion signals. Summer samples predominantly contained biogenic tracers, such as arabitol and sucrose, indicating stronger biological sources. Backward trajectory analysis confirmed significant aerosol transport from Eastern Europe. The findings highlight the seasonal shift in dominant aerosol sources and underscore the importance of long-range transport in shaping regional air quality.

This study assessed PM_2.5 and its components at two sites in Lucknow using a mobile laboratory. PM_2.5 levels were significantly higher at the industrial site (198.40 µg/m³) compared to the background site (39.63 µg/m³), with organic aerosols (OA) comprising over 50% at both sites. Positive matrix factorization identified primary and secondary OA sources. A unique industrial-related OA (IOA) factor resolved exclusively at industrial site, contributing 18%, and showed a strong correlation with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and heavy metals. Concentrated weighted trajectory analysis revealed that while secondary aerosols were long-range transported, the IOA was predominantly local, emphasizing industrial emissions impact.

Heatwaves (HWs) increase air pollution by boosting biogenic volatile organic compound (BVOC) emissions, including isoprene. At the National Atmospheric Observatory Košetice, isoprene concentrations during HWs (1995–2023) were significantly higher than on regular days. Correlation analysis showed stronger links between isoprene and temperature during HWs.

Peatlands cover a large fraction of the boreal climate zone and are very sensitive to the warming climate which can lead to drying and vegetation change. We investigated how the change from sedge-dominated fen to a shrub-dominated bog affects the secondary organic aerosol (SOA) formation potential of the emitted volatile organic compound (VOC). While the fen case had higher VOC emissions, the SOA formation potential was lower than for the bog one. Isoprene suppressed SOA formation in the fen case but had little effect on the bog case showing the complex interactions of precursors.

The Metropolitan Area of São Paulo (MASP), in southeastern Brazil, is one of the world’s largest megacities, with a population exceeding 20 million and a fleet of approximately 7 million vehicles. While many pollutants have shown a strong decline over the last 20 years, PM_2.5 levels have remained relatively stable (15 μg.m^-³) and ozone concentrations have increased slightly. By taking the subtropical MASP as a natural laboratory, the BIOMASP+ project (BIOsphere-atmosphere interactions in the Metropolitan Area of São Paulo - plus) aims to evaluate how biosphere-atmosphere exchanges affect secondary urban pollution and the biosphere in the context of climate change.

This study, part of the BIOMASP+ project, explores biogenic secondary organic aerosol (SOA) formation from Cassaeria Sylvestris (CS) under oxidative stress. Under controlled chamber conditions, plants were exposed to ozone, and emissions were analyzed with advanced aerosol and mass spectrometry techniques. Results show CS emissions, primarily isoprene, significantly enhance organic aerosol mass, indicating strong oxidation potential. The impact of ozone stress on CS plants emissions and SOA potential is also illustrated in this work, which will be discussed to better understand BVOC oxidation mechanisms, SOA formation, their role in urban air quality and local climate.

Brown carbon (BrC) from ammonium and glyoxal/methylglyoxal (NH₄⁺-G/MG) reactions significantly impacts aerosol composition and radiative forcing, yet its photochemistry remains unclear. This study identifies 2-IC and M-IE as key BrC species and photosensitizers, elucidating their photodegradation pathways. Reactive oxygen species from photolysis contribute more to composition diversity than photosensitization, yielding organic acids and ring-opening products. Unlike photostable G, MG undergoes photodegradation in NH₄⁺-MG systems, driving H abstraction and forming light-absorbing aromatic carbonyls. Our experimental and thermodynamic analyses reveal M-IE’s role as a photosensitizer and highlight MG’s unexpected function as an oxidant source in atmospheric BrC chemistry.

Chamber experiments were conducted in AIDA chamber under different humidities and with presence of reactive nitrogen in aerosol or gas phase. The yield of α-pinene ozonolysis products is strongly enhanced at higher humidity, while the presence of reactive nitrogen will lead to a change in the oxidation products observed in the particle phase. Ofline FIGAERO-CIMS measurements shows that for higher humidity, organic matter with a higher oxygenated state and higher solubility are more likely to be formed in both gas and particle phase. Nitrogen-containing organics are also found in such conditions, indicating new aqueous phase SOA formation pathways.

The oxidation reactions of sesquiterpenes are an important yet underestimated source of biogenic secondary organic aerosol (bSOA). In this study, our goal is to improve the parameterization used in chemical transport models (CTM) to simulate SOA formation from sesquiterpenes. Experiments were conducted in the FORTH Atmospheric Simulation Chamber, focusing on multigeneration reactions of β-caryophyllene. The experimental data were utilized in a box-model to estimate the parameters that adequately describe SOA evolution during the two-step oxidation of β-caryophyllene. The estimated parameters were implemented in a CTM to simulate and quantify the contributions of sesquiterpene SOA to organic aerosol during the summer.

Soil and litter are significant sources of BVOCs, which can contribute to SOA formation. However, the role of leaf litter decomposition in atmospheric particle formation, particularly in the Mediterranean region, remains unclear. This study aims to better understand the potential of BVOCs emitted from litter to form SOA. To achieve this, an innovative experimental setup was developed, combining a VOC emission chamber, a flow reactor, and advanced analytical instruments (CHARON-PTR-ToF-MS, SMPS). Initial experiments with two leaf litters confirmed the system's ability to generate high VOC concentrations and, upon light exposure, the oxidation by OH radicals led to new particle formation.

Clouds and fogs are vital in atmospheric chemistry, as they facilitate multiphase reactions.
Fog as groundlevel clouds offer a unique opportunity for direct observation. We explored radiation fogs in the North China Plain using an advanced aerosol-fog sampling system to measure the chemical and physical properties of both inactivated interstitial aerosols and activated fog droplet residues. Results revealed efficient nitrate formation primarily occurring on fog interstitial aerosols through NO2 and N2O5 hydrolysis, rather than within fog droplets. Our results highlight the need for further research into the chemistry of cloud and fog interstitial aerosols and their inclusion in atmospheric chemistry models.

HONO represents a key nitrogen species in the troposphere because its photolysis produced OH radicals. However HONO daytime sources remain controversial. In this study we perform Coated Wall Flow Tube (CWFT) experiments and model simulations to investigate the role of Fe(III)-carboxylate photochemistry in multiphase processes that convert nitrogen dioxide (NO2) into HONO. Our results indicate a key role of Fe(II) coming from Fe(III)-carboxylate photoreduction, highlighting the importance of Fe(III) complexes photochemistry in affecting the atmospheric nitrogen cycle.

Secondary organic aerosol (SOA) is important for air quality and climate. When SOA mixes with particles containing transition metals like Fe, metal-organic complexes can form, driving photochemical aging. We studied the photochemistry of α-pinene SOA formed on Fe-containing seed particles, at varying relative humidities (RH). Chemical morphology and photochemical reduction of single particles were analyzed by spectro-microscopy. SOA chemical composition and functionality varied with RH. Furthermore, Fe in SOA formed at high RH was readily photochemically reduced upon exposure to UV light, contrary to SOA formed at low RH. Demonstrating SOA formation conditions affect both chemical composition and photochemical aging.

In the field of atmospheric aqueous aerosols, this study aims to investigate how black carbon interacts with the multiphase chemistry of atmospheric phenols. the reaction taken into consideration is the nitration of catechol, carried out in an acidic sodium nitrite solution, in the dark, with insoluble black carbon nanoparticles. Main product of this reaction is the harmful 4-nitrocatechol, jointly with other secondary compounds. This study, due to the evidences confirming the partecipant role of black carbons in the reaction, indicates that it can also influence atmospheric chemistry with further impacts on the ecosystem, climate and human health.

We present the kinetic multilayer meta model (KM-MEMO), an automatic computer code generator and framework for describing chemical reaction kinetics in multiphase systems. KM-MEMO autogenerates Matlab code for models like KM-SUB and KM-GAP, allowing users to customize system geometry and chemical mechanisms without coding. The flux-based kinetic models explicitly resolve mass transport and chemical reactions across phases. Applications include modeling secondary organic aerosol formation, where the model aids in understanding diffusion limitations to evaporation, and the health impacts of air pollution, by quantifying oxidative stress from PM2.5 and oxidant gases in the respiratory tract.

Understanding secondary aerosol formation from vehicle emissions is crucial for mitigating climate change and air pollution. This study investigates secondary aerosol precursors from gasoline and diesel vehicles using different fuel blends. Emissions, including hydrocarbons, NOx, and PM, were measured during a WLTC. Simulated atmospheric aging in an oxidation flow reactor revealed that gasoline vehicles, particularly during cold starts, produce more secondary aerosol than diesel vehicles due to higher aromatic hydrocarbon emissions. Diesel vehicles demonstrated lower secondary aerosol formation. These findings highlight the impact of fuel composition and technologies on SA production, emphasizing the need for optimized strategies to reduce emissions.

This study targets to determine the oxidative potential (OP) of fine aerosols in an urban-industrial area near Lisbon and to identify the pollution sources with impact on the OP levels. For this purpose, thirty samples were selected from a set of 128 samples collected over one year, based on the highest load for each source, previously assessed by PMF source apportionment. Sig­nificant correlations between OP^DTT_V values and the mass contributions of the different sources to PM_2.5, were found for the sources vehicle exhaust, fuel-oil combustion and industry, which were found to explain 82% of the OP^DTT_V variability by MLR analysis.

This study examines persistent organic pollutants (POPs), including PAHs, OPEs, and PBDEs, in southern Taiwan during the northeast monsoon (Feb–Mar 2024). Urban sites had higher pollutant levels due to industrial and traffic emissions, with Xiaogang showing the highest BaPeq levels. OPEs (4.57±2.81 ng/m³) exceeded PBDEs by two orders of magnitude, highlighting a shift toward phosphorus-based flame retardants. PAHs were dominated by low-molecular-weight compounds, mainly naphthalene. Correlations suggest combustion as the primary source in rural areas. Seasonal fluctuations were driven by local emissions rather than long-range transport, emphasizing the need for targeted air quality management strategies.

In this study, we have designed and constructed a multifunctional bipolar electrospray aerosol generation platform, through which we systematically investigated both the charge distribution of resultant particles and the factors influencing the particle coalescence. A preliminary demonstration of the total charge measurements of sucrose particles generated by the developed bipolar ES platform as a function of feeding flow rate is presented in the article.

To print nanostructures over a large area remains a challenge, because the resolution and scalability often conflict to each other. Here we programmed a pulsed electric field for printing periodic nanostructures over an entire wafer. These nanostructures are bridge-like in geometry, connecting two isolated pads. As such, they act as the interconnects. The minimum wire-thickness was experimentally realized to 17 nm while maintaining the multimaterial ability to print the next-generation metals. The extensively large area exceeds the previous work by 4 orders of magnitudes. Their conductivities are also measured and predicted, comparable to those using film-technologies.

The ARTofMELT expedition (May–June 2023) aboard the research icebreaker Oden offered a unique opportunity to investigate Arctic aerosol properties during the spring-to-summer transition. Using a combination of Nano-IR, Total Carbon, and HR-ToF-AMS analyses, we characterized accumulation- and Aitken-mode particles, examining variability in their loading and composition, as well as their mixing state and microphysical properties. These findings will help improve our understanding of aerosol-cloud interactions in a poorly observed region during this critical seasonal transition, shedding light on processes involved in the onset of sea-ice melt.

The Arctic oceans are a quantitatively important reservoir for biological ice nucleating particles (bioINPs). These are emitted to the atmosphere through sea spray, and are linked to Arctic cloud formation. Due to accelerated sea ice melt, sea ice microorganisms are progresively discharged into the surface waters, potentially contributing to marine bioINPs. We used field experiments and laboratory simulations to investigate bioINPs in fast and pack ice, looked into physical and microbial factors driving bioINP concentrations, as well as emissions of bioINPs from melted sea ice. Our results will be essential for constraining future climate change predicions for the Arctic region.

Arctic aerosols were collected during the ARTofMELT expedition and during two ground-based field campaigns in Disko Bay (West Greenland) and Young Sound (East Greenland), followed by analysis using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to high-resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS). Aerosol samples from ARTofMELT showed the presence of compounds derived from oceanic fatty acids and monoterpenes, among others. Primary marine aerosols influence the composition at Young Sound. Aerosol samples from Disko Bay show a correlation between monoterpene-derived oxidation products indicating long-range transport from marine or terrestrial monoterpene sources. A comparison between the field measurements will provide a large-scale analysis of the Arctic environment.

Low-level mixed-phase clouds in the Arctic strongly influence the surface energy balance, but their representation in models remains poorly constrained due to large uncertainties on aerosol-cloud interaction processes. Combining detailed in situ aerosol and cloud measurements, collected from a tethered-balloon system in the central Arctic in June 2023, with modeling approaches, this case study quantifies the contribution of entrained free tropospheric aerosols to the cloud’s number of droplets and radiative properties. These findings highlight the need for more systematic vertical aerosol-cloud profiling to improve our knowledge of free tropospheric aerosol characteristics and their influence on clouds’ radiative properties.

In this work, we combine our previous quantum chemical work on the contribution of iodine and chlorine to new particle formation into an aerosol model together with new sources of chlorine and iodine. We aim to achieve a better understanding of which chemical species that are important for describing the formation of new particles in the Arctic.

Observations of nucleation mode particles over the Arctic Ocean in summer have been associated with prolonged residence time over the pack ice, suggesting that their source is within the pack ice. In this study, the formation of nucleation mode particles over the pack ice is simulated using an aerosol dynamics model and representative particle size distributions from five Arctic Ocean expeditions. Both nucleation of iodic acid and release of marine biopolymer particles contributed to new particles after evaporation of fog. A sensitivity analysis investigates how iodine emissions, nucleation rates, iodne reactions and number flux of biopolymers affect nucleation mode particles.

Time series of ⁷Be in atmospheric aerosols collected from the Antarctic plateau are employed in the STEAR project to investigate potential Stratosphere-Troposphere Exchange (STE) events. These events are critical due to their rapid and sporadic nature, yet their global mechanisms remain scarcely understood and concern the transport of stratospheric O₃ to the troposphere. This study makes a substantial contribution by analyzing data collected over a prolonged period (February 2022 to December 2024) in a remote region, including Antarctic winter, with high temporal resolution through PM10 sampling every 2-4 days, enabling the extraction of novel insights into STE dynamics.

The Arctic is a sensitive environment with missing information on volatile organic compounds (VOC) and their potential to form aerosols, which can further impact cloud formation. Brown algae are important species in Arctic ecosystems and have been shown to be a source of VOC, with I₂, being an important contributor to particle formation. Very few studies investigate the role of co-emitted VOC to I₂-catalyzed particle formation, and knowledge on these contributions is lacking. Here, we conducted a chamber study to investigate particle formation and their potential to contribute to cloud formation from the VOC emissions of a brown Arctic macroalgae.

With accelerated warming in the Arctic, dust emissions from expanding glacial outwash plains could impact cloud formation and radiative transfer, but high latitude dust sources remain poorly characterized. We present ice nucleating particle (INP) experiments from samples collected in glacial outwash plains in southern and western Greenland, including surface sediment sample transects and atmospheric filter samples. Surface sediment samples show comparable ice-active mass site densities to other high-latitude sites, exceeding typical desert dust, and variability in ice-activity is likely linked to total organic carbon content. These findings provide new insights into INPs in glacial outwash plains, with possible climate implications.

Aerosols from the natural sources of air pollution reduce air quality at high latitudes. Many extreme events causing severe air pollution were observed/measured in Iceland, Svalbard and Antarctica. In Iceland, we measured i. tens of severe dust storms when the instruments reached 150 mgm-3, as well as long-range transport from Iceland to Scandinavia, Faroe and British Isle, and Svalbard; ii. at least two Saharan dust with PM10>200 ugm-3, and iii. Black/Organic Carbon haze from burning mosses around the hot lava from the eruption in Reykjanes Peninsula with reduced visibility and smoke smell, particles>1 µm. PM1 mass concentrations exceeded 25 µgm-3.

This study investigates the impact of Light Absorbing Aerosols (LAAs) on atmospheric heating rates (HR) in the Arctic. A novel approach was used to estimate LAA-induced atmospheric HR for the first time at a fixed sampling point, using high temporal resolution measurements performed at Ny-Ålesund through 2022. Our results show a significant decrease in reflected radiation-HR, a decrease in diffuse radiation-HR, and the total HR almost equal to previous estimates.. Additionally, were analyzed both BC and HR sources and species apportionment. This study provides a crucial contribution to understanding LAAs' effects on atmospheric HR and their role in Arctic Amplification.

Measurements were made of refractory black carbon with an extended range, single particle soot photometer, Droplet Measurement Technologies, LLC), at the Pituffik Space Base in northern Greenland, during the summer and autumn of 2024. The SP2XR measures light scattered from particles in the equivalent optical diameter (EOD) range from 100-500 nm, and mass concentration of rBC in the mass equivalent diameter (MED) range from 50 – 800 nm. In addition, an equivalent coating thickness is extracted, calculated from the EOD and MED. Measurements are being compared to a global reanalysis model and atmospheric backtrajectories to determine primary transport pathways.

Comprehensive BC source studies in the Arctic atmosphere require large spatial and temporal scales. High temporal-resolution, one-year-long BC measurements during the MOSAiC expedition in the Central Arctic are expended on simultaneous BC observations at Western and European Arctic sections; the Arctic spatiotemporal BC distribution and episodes of the highest pollution are highlighted. BC origin and main contributing sources are assessed for each location using FLEXPART driven with ECLIPSE-GFAS emission inventories. Combined geospatial view provides the contributions of dominated gas flaring, domestic and transport sectors from populated regions in the cold period and biomass burning from wildfires in the warm period.

Aerosols in cold regions impact climate by altering snow properties and accelerating melting. This study presents direct measurements of particle number fluxes and dry deposition velocities at two Arctic sites: Ny-Ålesund (March–August 2021) and Fairbanks (winter 2022, ALPACA experiment). An eddy covariance system measured ultrafine to quasi-coarse particles. Results highlight turbulence-driven deposition, with friction velocity influencing deposition velocity. Comparison with predictive models shows agreement with Slinn (1982), but current parameterizations underestimate fluxes for 0.5–3 µm particles. Findings enhance understanding of aerosol-snow interactions and improve dry deposition modeling in polar environments.

OA is a major component of particulate matter (PM) that affects air quality and health, especially in highly polluted, low-income, densly populated cities. This study examines organic aerosol (OA) in São Paulo, Brazil, using water-based offline setup with soft and hard ionization mass spectrometry. This study provides a detailed chemical characterization and quantitative analysis using AMS-LToF and EESI-ToF, along with source apportionment of the primary and secondary OA drivers in Sao Paulo, Brazil’s most populous city.

Identifying aerosol sources is key to air quality policies. Traditional methods rely on chemical analysis but are labor-intensive and limit data coverage. This study proposes a novel approach using physical properties (size distribution and light absorption) from high-time-resolution optical instruments: a particle counter (Palas Fidas 200) and an aethalometer (AE33). PMF of hourly data identifies six PM10 sources, validated against traditional methods and active/passive remote sensing. Applications of real-time implementation include wildfire smoke and pollution transport tracking, and emergency surveillance. This cost-effective technique enhances spatial and temporal resolution, supporting the new EU Air Quality directive by improving emission pattern analysis.

Multi-year observations at three Irish coastal sites—Mace Head, Valentia, and Carnsore Point—reveal dynamic interactions between marine and continental aerosols in the northeastern Atlantic. Using an HR-ToF-AMS, ACSMs, and gas analysers, we monitored organic aerosols (OAs), black carbon, and trace gases for a decade. Positive matrix factorization identified primary and secondary OA sources, including marine biogenic emissions, peat burning, and continental pollution. Long-range transport events were studied with backtrajectories, while decadal trends were analysed with advanced statistics to assess impacts of climate change, anthropogenic pollution, and air quality regulation. This study lays the groundwork for integrating observations with climate models effectively.

Ultrafine particles, defined as aerosols with diameter smaller than 100 nm, represent a growing concern due to their significant impact on human health and the environment. Despite their importance, our knowledge of UFP size distribution and the processes determining their atmospheric dynamics and air-surface fluxes remains limited.

To address these gaps, a comprehensive experimental campaign was conducted from October 2024 to March 2025 at the “Comando Generale dei Carabinieri” in downtown Rome adjacent to Villa Ada, a large urban park. This location offers a unique opportunity to explore the interactions between urban emissions and vegetation in a composed environment.

Aerosol particles in the atmosphere over the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau (QTP) are important but less understood due to paucity of measurements. We presented the key findings from an intensive field observation of atmospheric aerosols in the central QTP region in summer 2022 mainly using SP-AMS, SMPS, and AE33. During the measurement period, coincided with the monsoon season, the average mass concentration of submicron aerosol was 0.98 ± 0.60 μg/m³, dominated by organic aerosol (OA). Five sources or processes were identified for OA using Positive Matrix Factorization (PMF). Two special events were selected as the “high-sulfate” and the “high-nitrate” periods and discussed.

This study compares ELPI’s electrical measurements (2 units equipped with different impaction plates) with well-established aerosol spectrometers, including MPSS, APSS, and CPC, using a set of well-defined aerosols of varying composition, size, and morphology.

Bioaerosols, which come from natural or industrial sources and consist of airborne organisms or their fragments, pose health risks to the public and industry. As a result, there is growing emphasis on developing reliable early detection methods for these pathogens. This project aims to create an affordable "first alert" system to detect airborne bacteria, fungi, and pollen in real time. The system alerts users to potential pathogens or allergens in the air, enabling timely protective actions. While it cannot identify specific types, it captures and stores particles in a liquid sample, which can then be analyzed in the laboratory

We have developed and applied a new measurement technique to determine the 3D shape factor of aerosol particles deposited on impactor trays using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Besides the determination of two characteristic size of the particles from 2D SEM images, the Everhart-Thornley detector’s “shadow effect” was used to measure the height perpendicular to the Si substrate of the samples. From these informations a 3D shape factor was compiled, and used to determine the size-dependent 3D shape factors of particles emitted from three different dry powder inhalers and to study the shape factor’s effects on their lung deposition properties by numerical modelling.

In this work describe a high purity aerosolization, aerosol heating, and threshold condensation particle counting (CPC) system. We demonstrate the capability of this system using ultrapure water doped with varying concentrations of non-volatile and semi-volatile materials. When the aerosol is heated, the semi-volatile components may evaporate. This reduces the mean size of the aerosolized particle distribution and eventually, particle concentrations above the CPC size threshold fall below its detection limit. Materials tested include mixtures of sodium chloride, sucrose, and adipic and succinic acids. Aerosol temperatures range from 60-250°C.

The triboelectric charging of aerosol particles during particle-wall collisions can be used for basic investigations of the mechanical properties of nanoparticles, but also for the targeted charging of micrometer particles in a material-specific sorting process. In order to understand the charge transfer, the exit work of both contact partners must be known. Two methods for measuring the work function of aerosols and walls/powders at atmospheric pressure are presented here.