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Evaluation of a catalytic reduction technique for the measurement of total reactive odd-nitrogen NO y in the atmosphere

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Abstract

A catalytic reduction technique for the measurement of total reactive odd-nitrogen NO y in the atmosphere was evaluated in laboratory and field tests. NO y component species include NO, NO2, NO3, HNO3, N2O5, CH3COO2NO2(PAN), and particulate nitrate. The technique utilizes the reduction of the higher oxides to NO in reaction with CO on a metal catalyst and the subsequent detection of NO by chemiluminescence produced in reaction with O3. The efficiency and linearity of the conversion of the principal NO y species were examined for mixing ratios in the range of 0.1 to 100 parts per billion by volume (ppbv). Results of tests with Au, Ni, and stainless steel as the catalyst in the temperature range of 25–500°C showed Au to be the preferred catalyst. NH3, HCN, N2O, CH4, and various chlorine and sulfur compounds were checked as possible sources of NO y interference with the Au catalyst. The effects of pressure, O3, and H2O on NO y conversion were also examined. The results of the checks and tests in the laboratory showed the technique to be suitable for initial NO y measurements in the atmosphere. The technique was subsequently tested in ambient air at a remote ground-based field site located near Niwot Ridge, Colorado. The results of conversion and inlet tests made in the field and a summary of the NO y data are included in the discussion.

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Author notes

  1. C. S. Eubank, G. Hübler & F. C. Fehsenfeld

    Present address: Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences, University of Colorado, 80309, Boulder, CO, U.S.A.

Authors and Affiliations

  1. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Aeronomy Laboratory, 80303, Boulder, CO, U.S.A.

    D. W. Fahey, C. S. Eubank, G. Hübler & F. C. Fehsenfeld

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  1. D. W. Fahey
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  2. C. S. Eubank
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  3. G. Hübler
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  4. F. C. Fehsenfeld
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Fahey, D.W., Eubank, C.S., Hübler, G. et al. Evaluation of a catalytic reduction technique for the measurement of total reactive odd-nitrogen NO y in the atmosphere. J Atmos Chem 3, 435–468 (1985). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00053871

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00053871

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