Characterization of atmospheric aerosol in the urban area of Napoli in the framework of EARLINET Project

Abstract

Systematic Lidar measurements of tropospheric aerosols optical properties have been carried out in the urban area of Napoli (Southern Italy, 40°50’18”N, 14°10’59”E, 118 m above sea level), in the framework of EARLINET project. Lidar systematic measurements of aerosol backscattering and extinction profiles have been performed at laser wavelength of 351nm and were obtained from simultaneously measurements of elastic and N 2 Raman signals. Following the EARLINET protocol, regular measurements have been performed three times a week in two days and they provide information on aerosol optical properties, with a final spatial resolution of 60m and a temporal resolution between 1 and 30 min. A statistical analysis in terms of integrated backscattering (BI), optical depth (OD), extinction to backscattering ratio (LR), and Dust Layer height (DL), obtained from measurements carried out in clear sky conditions over 30 months, has been realized. Further measurements have been performed during Saharan Dust transport events and some detailed observation of complete diurnal cycle has been carried out, in order to know the dynamic and the evolution of the Planetary Boundary Layer