Work

Sources and aging of individual atmospheric particles in New York City: Integrating novel functional group data from optical photothermal spectroscopy with elemental and mass spectrometry data

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: m), optical photothermal infrared (O-PTIR). We compare O-PTIR to existing microspectroscopy methods [Raman, fluorescence, and energy dispersive X-ray (EDX)] to study sources and aging of the complex NYC aerosol based on functional group and elemental information, which we also relate to bulk mass spectrometry methods. Single particle data shows submicron aerosol composition dominated by carbonaceous particles that fluoresce mixed with ammonium and sulfate, with a range of oxidized organic functional groups observed. At larger sizes, more primary sources (salts, dust, and biological) were observed, with nitrate being the dominant secondary anion. Collectively, the results from OPTIR and other instruments across case-study days reveal variations in sources and aging, with greater variability at larger diameters. Demonstrating the potential of O-PTIR when combined with the other methods to provide data that is important for improving air quality in urban megacities.

Source: Aerosol Science and Technology

DOI: 10.1080/02786826.2025.2555886