Multicomponent Atmospheric Aerosol-Water Interactions

Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh PA

Investigators

Abstract

This project integrates laboratory and field measurements with modeling to investigate processes that control water interactions with multicomponent atmospheric aerosols. Reducing the current uncertainty in cloud condensation nuclei (CCN) activity has potentially a profound influence on gaining a more informed understanding the urban and regional atmosphere, as well as global climate change. The investigators will characterize ambient aerosol water uptake under varying environmental conditions, including consideration of both inorganic and organic speciation, and further investigate particle-aging effects of hydrated primary and secondary organic aerosols. Two research elements are involved, the first investigating aerosol water uptake at sub- and near-saturation using ambient measurements with an instrument of their own design, and the second laboratory studies aimed at characterization of primary and secondary sources of CCN. The broader impacts of this research include a better understanding as to how secondary organic aerosols under representative ambient conditions might modify CCN activity and control aerosol-water interactions, processes fundamentally important for visibility, radiative transfer and climate change. The project includes support for the research training of two graduate students.