Competition of NO and SO2for OH Generated within Electrical Aerosol Analyzers

Abstract

The Electrical Aerosol Analyzer (EAA) provides data for the calculation of number, surface area, and volume distribution of submicron range aerosol particles in ambient air and flue gases. Current theory reveals the generation of artifact aerosol particles identified as sulfuric acid within the instrument. The sulfuric acid aerosol, generated by the reaction of SO2 and OH, has been shown to interfere with the signal output of the EAA; and thus, affecting the instrument's desired function. In an attempt to improve the applications of the EAA, a mixture of SO2 and NO was utilized to explore the possibilities of preventing the formation of sulfuric acid artifact aerosols. The results, as indicated by the signal output of the EAA, show a partial hindrance in the formation of aerosol by the addition of NO. Further, the results verify the formation of HONO in the EAA. In addition, an SO2 interference on the NO signal from the Chemiluminescent NO/NOx Monitor was discovered.