Atmospheric Chemistry of Secondary Organic Aerosol Formation from Industrial Terpene Emission Sources

Abstract

Industrial terpene emissions released from chemical manufacturing, wood processing, fragrance production, and biomass-related industries contribute significantly to atmospheric reactions leading to secondary organic aerosol formation and air quality deterioration. Secondary organic aerosols influence climate processes, atmospheric visibility, and human respiratory health due to their fine particulate characteristics and complex chemical composition. The present study investigates the atmospheric chemistry of secondary organic aerosol formation from industrial terpene emission sources under varying environmental and photochemical conditions. The research focuses on evaluating oxidation pathways, aerosol yield, precursor reactivity, and physicochemical transformation mechanisms associated with terpene-derived atmospheric particles. Experimental analysis was conducted to examine the influence of ozone concentration, hydroxyl radical activity, nitrogen oxides, temperature, humidity, and solar irradiation on terpene oxidation and aerosol generation behavior. Results demonstrate that industrial terpene compounds undergo rapid atmospheric oxidation reactions, producing low-volatility oxygenated intermediates that contribute substantially to secondary organic aerosol formation. The study further reveals that photochemical conditions and oxidant concentration significantly affect aerosol growth, particle composition, and atmospheric persistence. Elevated nitrogen oxide levels were found to alter oxidation pathways and influence the formation of organic nitrates and secondary particulate matter. Comparative assessment with primary industrial particulate emissions confirms the importance of secondary aerosol formation in regional atmospheric pollution and fine particle accumulation.