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Large-volume, coolable spectroscopic cell for aerosol studies.
R A McPheat1, D A Newnham, R G Williams
1Department of Space Science and Technology, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Chilton, Didcot, Oxfordshire OX11 0QX, UK.
Applied Optics
|March 28, 2008
Summary
A new spectroscopic cell allows detailed study of aerosol particles, measuring properties like freezing temperatures and chemical composition. This research aids atmospheric chemistry and pollution analysis.
Area of Science:
- Atmospheric Chemistry
- Spectroscopy
- Aerosol Science
Background:
- Atmospheric aerosols significantly impact climate and air quality.
- Accurate characterization of aerosol physical and chemical properties is crucial for atmospheric models.
- Existing methods may have limitations in aerosol residence time and interaction with cell walls.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and present a novel coolable spectroscopic cell for in-situ characterization of simulated atmospheric aerosols.
- To enable precise measurements of aerosol optical properties, phase transitions, and chemical composition.
- To facilitate extended aerosol residence times, minimizing wall-aerosol interactions.
Main Methods:
- Construction of a large-volume (0.075 m(3)) coolable spectroscopic cell.
- Optical interfacing with Fourier-transform spectrometers for broadband spectral analysis (IR, Vis, UV).
- Operation over a wide temperature range (180-300 K) to study phase transitions and properties.
Main Results:
- The cell successfully characterizes refractive indices, freezing temperatures, and chemical composition of various aerosol types.
- Extended aerosol residence time (>2 h) was achieved, reducing wall effects.
- Broadband extinction spectra of aerosol particles and gas-phase components were recorded.
Conclusions:
- The developed spectroscopic cell is a valuable tool for atmospheric aerosol research.
- Data generated have direct applications in remote sensing and atmospheric modeling.
- The cell supports studies on heterogeneous atmospheric chemistry and air pollution.
