Formation and Transport of Atmospheric Aerosol over Athens, Greece

ISSN： 1567-7230

Source： Water, Air and Soil Pollution: Focus, Vol.2, Iss.5-6, 2002-01, pp. : 223-235

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Abstract

The effects of meteorology on ambient aerosol concentrations and aerosol transport, within the Greater Athens Area during the summer period, was investigated. Measurements of size fractionated anions and cations were made at two sites (inland at Ag. Stefanos and on the coast at Pireas) within the Greater Athens Area. The wind regime exhibited a distinct influence such that the sea-breeze circulation strongly enhanced the formation of secondary aerosols. For sulphate the difference in concentration between the two sites was, on average, 8 times greater on sea-breeze days compared with Etesian days (warm days with NE winds). During `normal' days, any differences in concentrations were possibly due to local emissions. Elevated concentrations in the fine mode were detected at both sites during the sea-breeze days. The sea-breeze circulation enhances the development of secondary aerosols which was clearly shown at the inland site. Nitrous acid, hydrochloric acid and particulate nitrate, sulphate and ammonium increase during sea-breeze days. Elevated levels of nitrate, 4 m diameter, were particularly observed on the days with a strong sea-breeze circulation. Sulphate was well correlated with both sulphur dioxide and ammonium suggesting the production of NH₄HSO₄/(NH₄)₂SO₄ aerosols, formed through the neutralisation of NH₃ with sulphuric acids. Ammonium sulphate was found to be the major ammonium component in Athens.