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Potential Enhancement in Atmospheric Nanoparticles Growth by Amine-Assisted Nitrate Condensation at Room Temperature
  • Kuanfu Chen,
  • Kai Zhang,
  • CHONG QIU
Kuanfu Chen
Duke Kunshan University, Duke Kunshan University, Duke Kunshan University, Duke Kunshan University
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Kai Zhang
Duke Kunshan University, Duke Kunshan University, Duke Kunshan University, Duke Kunshan University
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CHONG QIU
University of New Haven, University of New Haven, University of New Haven, University of New Haven

Corresponding Author:[email protected]

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Abstract

The formation and aging of atmospheric aerosol are of critical importance in public health and the global climate. Recently laboratory experiments suggested rapid condensation of nitrate and ammonia during new particle formation events at low temperature. Amines are emitted into the atmosphere in large quantities from natural and anthropogenic sources. Using thermodynamic simulations, the contribution of amines to nitrate condensation into ambient nanoparticles at various temperature and relative humidity conditions was systematically evaluated. It is observed that monoamines will facilitate nitrate condensation at a low temperature comparable to ammonia, while those with additional hydrogen bonds (such as monoethanolamine and piperazine) showed the potential to condense nitrate at room temperature. The condensation of amines and nitrate could also lower the aerosol deliquescence point, possibly altering particle properties and aging. Our results suggest the potentially critical role of amines in ambient aerosol growth via nitrate condensation at a wide temperature range.