Atmospheric oxidation of emissions from the boreal forest in a complex and nonlinear world

Biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs) play a crucial role in the climate system by providing the building blocks for tiny air particles.

Yet, the connection between BVOC emissions and particle formation is complex, hindered by the temporal and spatial variability of myriad BVOCs and their oxidants, along with the nonlinear dynamics of multi-generational oxidation processes.

This project aims to narrow the gap between laboratory studies and real-world atmospheric behavior and perform realistic constraints on the complexity and nonlinearity of secondary organic aerosol (SOA) formation from various VOC mixtures under natural conditions.Taking advantage of the distinct BVOC emission scenarios created by the forest management practices at the Norunda ICOS/ACTRIS station, this study offers an unparalleled opportunity to investigate SOA formation across different BVOC compositions and varying ratios of VOCs to oxidants.

Through the application of advanced mass spectrometry techniques, high-spatial-resolution field observations, both direct in-situ and post-campaign laboratory experiments, alongside model comparison, we aim to uncover the critical mechanisms and processes driving BVOC oxidation in the ambient atmosphere.

Our findings will advance our understanding of atmospheric chemistry, enhancing air quality and climate predictions.