Atmospheric Chemistry and Air Pollution

Dr. Xuan WANG
Tel: 3442-2483
Email address

Our overarching goal is to explore and understand atmospheric compositions and their impacts on pollution and climate. To do so, we use chemical transport models (CTM) together with observations (from all scales: ground, drone, aircraft, satellite, etc.) to study the chemistry and physics in the atmosphere.

Modeling of Global Tropospheric Chemistry

Tropospheric chemistry contributes to a series of issues in the earth system, such as air pollution, climate change, and ecological destruction. Modeling plays an important role in studying tropospheric chemistry by identifying processes, interpreting observations, assessing impacts, and making projections. We develop and use model schemes based on the GEOS-Chem global model framework to study the oxidants, gases, aerosols, and fundamental chemistry in troposphere. Recent related topics include:

1. Global halogen burden and chemistry
2. Marine influences on atmospheric compositions
3. Heterogeneous reactions in cloud water and ice

Aerosol Absorptions and their Impacts on Climate

Aerosols are important due to their adverse effects on human health and their direct and indirect radiative effects on climate. While all aerosols scatter light, some aerosols are also able to absorb light. These absorptions are significant and very uncertain factors contributing to global climate forcing. We focus on understanding the sources, lifecycles, and absorption properties of atmospheric aerosols. Recent related topics include:
1. Black carbon and brown carbon properties
2. Aerosol radiative effects on climate
3. Influences of chemical aging on aerosol optical properties

Regional Air Quality in Asia

Air pollution in Asia is among the worst in the world and have significant impacts on public health and economy. Exposure to particulate matter (PM) and ozone, the major two air pollutants, are responsible for millions of deaths per year. Formations of these pollutants are largely affected by complex chemical reactions and meteorological processes. We combine model simulations and measurement analysis to explore the chemical mechanisms controlling the formation of air pollutants, and make recommendations for air pollution control strategies. Recent related topics include:
1. Secondary aerosol formation
2.  Air pollution in coastal environments
3.  Applications of satellite and AI to assist air quality analysis