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Updated: Feb 14, 2026
09:26
Synthesis and Characterization of Supramolecular Colloids
Published on: April 22, 2016
10.5K
Detecting supramolecular organic nanoparticles during heat wave.
Renyi Zhang1,2,3,4, Yixin Li1, Jiayun Zhao2
1Department of Atmospheric Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA.
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|February 12, 2026
Summary
New particle formation, a key source of fine aerosols, unexpectedly occurred during a heat wave. Scientists discovered organic acids self-assemble into nanoparticles, explaining high-temperature formation and its broad atmospheric relevance.
Area of Science:
- Atmospheric Chemistry
- Environmental Science
- Nanoparticle Science
Background:
- New particle formation (NPF) is a primary source of tropospheric fine aerosols.
- NPF is commonly believed to be thermodynamically limited by species volatility, making it unfavorable at high temperatures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the mechanisms behind frequent new particle formation (NPF) observed during a heat wave.
- To determine the chemical composition of newly formed nanoparticles at high temperatures.
Main Methods:
- Conducted an intensive field campaign during a heat wave.
- Performed size-resolved chemical composition measurements of nanoparticles down to 3 nanometers.
Main Results:
- Observed frequent NPF events during the heat wave, contrary to common assumptions.
- Identified carboxylic acids as the dominant species in newly formed nanoparticles.
- Uncovered a spontaneous self-assembly mechanism for organic acids to form supramolecular nanoparticles.
Conclusions:
- The self-assembly of organic acids provides a mechanism for NPF at high temperatures.
- This finding explains the unexpected occurrence of NPF during heat waves and its prevalence in various atmospheric conditions.
- Results have implications for understanding aerosol impacts on climate, cloud formation, and public health, especially in the context of global warming.
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