nanoCAVa · Formation of nano-scale clusters from atmospheric vapors
Horizon 2020 — Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions
- Duration
- 2015-08-01 → 2018-07-31
- EU contribution
- €265,082
- Participants
- 2
- Scheme
- MSCA-IF
Lines connect the coordinator with its partners.
Results in brief
Formation of nano-scale clusters from atmospheric vapors
Formation of new aerosol particles in the atmosphere occurs when vapour molecules collide with each other forming molecular clusters, and the conditions are favourable for these clusters to stay together and continue growing in the atmosphere. Approximately half of global cloud condensation nuclei result from new particle formation, so understanding this process is relevant for estimating the climate impact of aerosol particles. The aim of this project is to characterize the sources and concentrations of atmospheric clusters and nano-particles, study their spatial and temporal variability in different environments, and to find out how and when the newly formed clusters grow into larger aerosol particles. A secondary objective is to provide training for the Experienced Researcher (ER) funded by the project in order for her to reach an independent academic research career. We concluded that clusters have many pre-cursors in the atmosphere, including both biogenic and anthropogenic vapours, and thus their composition and concentration varies greatly between different environments. We found several new mechanisms that can form and grow clusters and aerosol particles. Overall, the action was thus very successful both scientifically, and also for enhancing the career prospects of the ER.
Data: CORDIS, © European Union
Project objective
This research concentrates on advancing the understanding of the border between the gas and condensed phase by studying the formation of nanoscale clusters from atmospheric vapours (NanoCAVa). Cluster formation and growth is a crucial step in forming new aerosol particles in the atmosphere. We aim to resolve the role of molecular clusters in aerosol formation by targeted field measurements at various locations and precisely controlled chamber experiments. Using and further developing the latest measurement technology, and combining physical and chemical information, enables us to get a full characterization of neutral clusters, which is so far lacking. We utilize the results to create a better description of the dynamics of 1 – 5 nm nano-particles, which often cannot be treated with traditional theories, and to implement the concept of a cluster mode into the general view on the atmospheric aerosol size distribution. Understanding the factors controlling the growth of newly formed clusters into climatically relevant particles and cloud condensation nuclei (CCN) enables estimating their importance in the climate system more accurately. This project will facilitate the ER to pursue a successful research career in atmospheric science and establish her position as an expert of nano-particle measurement technology. It will also strengthen the role of the beneficiary and the partner organization as the leading groups in atmospheric nucleation research and their mutual collaboration.
Original text from CORDIS.
Participants
- HELSINGIN YLIOPISTO · HelsinkiCoordinatorFinland
- PAUL SCHERRER INSTITUT · VILLIGEN PSISwitzerland
Links
Data: CORDIS, © European Union