Formation of atmospheric nitrate under high Particulate Matter concentration

Abstract

This study was primarily initiated to understand the consistently moderate levels of nitrogen oxides (NOx) in Indian cities in spite of increasing NOx emissions. The research objective was to understand NO3? formation as a NOx function, and other atmospheric constituents. For this purpose, air quality monitoring was conducted at four locations in Delhi city, India (during October?November, 2000), representing various land–use patterns. The NO3? levels were found to be 4.9?15.1 ?gm?3 in PM2.5 and 7.3?21.9 ?gm?3 in PM10. The high NO3? levels could provide a plausible explanation for moderate NOx concentration levels in Delhi city.