Methods for Measuring Atmospheric Acidic Particles and Gases

Abstract

This chapter presents an overview of methods to measure atmospheric acidic particles and gases. The main formation mechanisms and physico-chemical properties of inorganic and organic acidic aerosols are discussed first. The second part is focused on the main methods of measuring these pollutants, with special emphasis spent on the shortcomings of using filters, the advantages and disadvantages of diffusion denuders, and the use of conventional impactors to obtain the size distribution of acidic particles in the atmosphere. The final part includes results from field studies conducted in the northern United States, presenting typical levels of ambient acidic pollutants, and discussion of their spatial and temporal concentration variations in urban and rural areas.