Size-resolved properties of atmospheric aerosols in Sydney and Regional NSW
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Date
2007-09-13
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
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Publisher
Department of the Environment and Water Resources
Abstract
In recent years it has become evident that size-resolved chemical composition of atmospheric aerosols is important in determining optical properties such as refractive index, scattering and absorption coefficients, extinction and hygroscopicity. These properties affect the way radiation is scattered and absorbed as it passes through the atmosphere, and thus are important for the calculation of aerosol radiative forcing and "atmospheric correction" of satellite images, as well as local air quality and visibility. We report results from a study of the size-resolved chemistry of atmospheric aerosols in Sydney and regional NSW, and their relationship to optical properties. PM2.5 and PM10 samples were collected at four sites during the summer, autumn, winter and spring of 2003. These were analysed using Ion Beam Analysis (IBA) and selected samples have also been analysed by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The elemental chemistry, in combination with meteorological parameters and a chemical thermodynamic model, was then used to determine the aerosol refractive index for each of the sites and size fractions. IBA results show seasonal differences within sites and between sites, as well as differences between PM2.5 and PM10 composition at particular sites. Refractive index values also show seasonal and spatial differences. Further PM2.5 and PM10 measurements were made during winter 2006 in Sydney, and Wagga Wagga in regional NSW. A second set of measurements, including using a 10-stage MOUDI sampler for better size-resolution of the chemistry is planned and similarly analysed.
Description
Keywords
Atmospheres, New South Wales, Fine particles, Aerosols, Ion beams, Electron microscopy, Air quality, Radiation detection, Seasonal variations
Citation
Hallal, T., Box, G. P., Radhi, M., Box, M. A., Chohe, D. D., & Stelcer, E. (2007). Size-resolved properties of atmospheric aerosols in Sydney and Regional NSW. Paper presented to the 14th IUAPPA World Congress incorporating the 18th CASANZ Conference Hosted by the Clean Air Society of Australia and New Zealand, 9-13 September 2007, Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. In 14th IUAPPA World Congress : Clean air partnerships: coming together for clean air : Brisbane 2007 : conference proceedings, incorporating the 18th CASANZ Conference hosted by the Clean Air Society of Australia and New Zealand, Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. Canberra : Department of the Environment and Water Resources.