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Updated: Feb 8, 2026
10:11
Whole-Body Nanoparticle Aerosol Inhalation Exposures
Published on: May 7, 2013
16.3K
Measuring Aerosol Phase Changes and Hygroscopicity with a Microresonator Mass Sensor
Arthur T Zielinski1, Peter J Gallimore1, Paul T Griffiths1,2
1Centre for Atmospheric Science, Department of Chemistry , University of Cambridge , Cambridge CB2 1EW , United Kingdom.
Analytical Chemistry
|July 4, 2018
Summary
A new method using microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) resonators accurately measures aerosol hygroscopicity and water uptake. This technique provides full hygroscopic growth curves for various particle types, advancing atmospheric science research.
Area of Science:
- Atmospheric Chemistry
- Materials Science
Background:
- Atmospheric aerosol particles interact with water vapor, affecting their size, phase, and composition.
- Accurate measurement of aerosol water uptake is crucial for understanding atmospheric impacts.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a novel method for characterizing aerosol hygroscopicity using microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) microresonators.
- To demonstrate the capability of this method for deriving full hygroscopic growth curves.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a MEMS microresonator integrated into an impaction stage to measure aerosol water uptake.
- Analyzed changes in resonant frequency and peak sharpness to determine deliquescence and efflorescence relative humidities (RHs).
Main Results:
- Successfully diagnosed deliquescence and efflorescence RHs for sodium chloride and ammonium sulfate, with results aligning with literature and models.
- Derived full hygroscopic growth curves for both inorganic salts and an inorganic-organic mixture.
Conclusions:
- MEMS resonators offer a promising, miniaturized approach for real-time aerosol mass monitoring.
- The presented technique provides an alternative for accurate laboratory thermodynamic measurements and has potential for complex ambient samples.
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