Atmospheric Chemistry Area
CEAM participates as ‘Exploratory Platform’ through the ‘Chamber’ mode in the ‘in situ aerosol’ (CAIS), ‘in situ trace gases’ (CIGAS) components.
The Mediterranean Center for Environmental Studies (CEAM) is a research centre for technological development and innovation to improve the natural environment in the Mediterranean. The department involved in ACTRIS is the Area of Atmospheric Chemistry, which operates EUPHORE (European Photoreactor). This photochemical reactor is one of the largest research facilities in Spain and Europe, used in the research and monitoring of atmospheric chemical processes. Its characteristics allow the simulation of these processes in almost real conditions thanks to its large size, its use of natural light due to the fact that these facilities have an extensive and outstanding analytical infrastructure. The mission of the Atmospheric Chemistry Area is to reduce or combat atmospheric pollution by studying degradation processes of biogenic and anthropogenic compounds emitted to the atmosphere, which can have profound effects on human health and vegetation. EUPHORE atmospheric simulators are available to any group whose research is related to atmospheric pollution, as well as to industry. industry.
Significant Infrastructures
EUPHORE (European PHOto Reactor) is the only open-air simulation chamber facility in Spain for the study of atmospheric chemical processes. The characteristics of its twin 200 m3 domes allow the simulation of these processes in almost real conditions thanks to its large size and the use of natural light. The simulation chambers are equipped with a wide range of analytical instruments to analyse VOCs, radical species, aerosols, O3, NO, NO2, PAN, organic nitrates, hydroperoxides and organic acids. For highly sensitive and selective in situ measurements, such as DOAS LP-FTIR and LP-UV/VIS spectroscopy. and a CEAS is under development. For the sensitive analysis of reaction products several ozone and NOx monitors as well as the HONO-LOPAP monitor, the Hantzsch HCHO monitor, PTRMS, GC-MS and GC-MS/MS for the sampling of trace gas components directly from the gas phase, with pre-concentration techniques or with solvents. A laser-induced fluorescence LIF is available for the measurement of OH and OH2 radicals. To measure aerosol formation from biogenic or anthropogenic precursor VOCs during oxidation, the EUPHORE facility is equipped with SMPS systems and a continuously operating microbalance (TEOM) providing particle number and mass concentration. For on-line analysis of the chemical composition of gases and aerosols, an HR-CI-API-TOF is also available. Other off-line techniques, such as HPLC and LC-MS or GC-MS for the analysis of different types of compounds, both gas-phase and particulate, are also available.
