Composition of Aerosols Over the Continential U.S.
Abstract
This study examines and integrates two databases containing aerosol species for the fine mass from the NPS-NFPN and NESCAUM monitoring networks. The coarse mass for the NPS-NFPN network is also examined. These networks operated in different parts of the United States, and over different time periods. The final database is then partitioned into the major aerosol types for the four quarters of the year. Equations are developed to partition the fine and coarse aerosol mass into sulfate, ammonia, water, organic, soil, soot, and salt aerosol types. The equations estimate these aerosol types by scaling up tracer species characteristic for specific source types. Any scaling factors which could not be determined from the assumed chemical composition of the aerosol types were found through a fitting process. Results of the partitioning agree with previous studies and alternative means of estimation. However, more reasonable results are found if the two databases are treated separately than combined. The largest observed fine particle mass occurs in the eastern part of the U.S. where it is dominated by sulfur aerosol types (sulfate, ammonia, water) and organics constituting approximately 80% of the mass. These aerosol types reach a maximum during the third quarter of the year.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 12, 1991
- Accession Number
- ADA242536
Entities
People
- Bret A. Schichtel
- Rudolf B. Husar
Organizations
- University of Washington