Incense Burning Research Articles

The Impact of Fine Particulate Matters (PM10, PM2.5) from Incense Smokes on the Various Organ Systems: A Review of an Invisible Killer

AbstractThe drastic increase in industrialization has led to numerous adverse effects on the environment and human health. Respiratory tract disorders are one of the major emerging global health issues that lead to a high mortality rate every year. The quality of indoor and outdoor air has lowered in the last decade.The quality of indoor air has deteriorated by cooking, smoking, and burning incense sticks or smoke. The smoke released from incense and incense sticks contains gaseous products (carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, and oxide of sulfur), particular matter (PM10, PM2.5), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). These toxic components released from various incense sources pose a significant risk to human health and the environment. The inhalation and exposure of smoke from various incenses is hazardous to health as it inevitably culminates in deadly organ‐related diseases. With such insights, the present review article focuses on the characteristic attributes of particulate matter released from incense and other sources emphasizing healthcare and environmental concerns.

MAKNA PADA PROSES PELAKSANAAN UPACARA ADAT KALOMBA PADA MASYARAKAT DI DESA BONTO BIRAENG KECAMATAN KAJANG KABUPATEN BULUKUMBA

This study discusses the ritual of the Kalomba Traditional Ceremony as a community belief in Bonto Biraeng Village, Kajang District, Bulukumba Regency. This study uses a qualitative method. Informants were selected using a purposive sampling technique. The collection of data used is observation, interview, and documents. in analyzing a data can be done by means of data reduction, data presentation, and drawing conclusions. The traditional Kalomba tradition is carried out based on stages starting from the maje'ne procession (ablution), burning incense and lighting candles, reading prayers, shaking off the incense smoke, the tompong procession, the baccing child procession, the paddinding-dindinggi stage, the installation of kampalo and the massolo event (giving money to children) and the event ends with a meal together by family and relatives. The meaning of the traditional Kalomba tradition is as medicine and safety to avoid skin diseases and is meaningful as a thanksgiving for parents to children. From the traditional Kalomba tradition, it reveals the value of mutual assistance and togetherness, establishing friendship and responsibility.

Exploring nanoparticle emissions and size distributions during incense burning and filtration in an indoor space

Exploring nanoparticle emissions and size distributions during incense burning and filtration in an indoor space

Molecular fingerprints and health risks of smoke from home-use incense burning

Abstract. The burning of incense for home use is a widespread practice that has been shown to have significant negative impacts on human health and air quality. However, there is a lack of understanding regarding its emission profiles and associated health risks. To address this knowledge gap, we utilized a state-of-the-art thermal-desorption comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography–mass spectrometer (TD-GC × GC-MS) to (semi-)quantify the emission factors (EFs) of 317 volatile compounds and thoroughly investigate the organic profiles of smoke from incense burning across a full-volatility range. Results showed that toluene (70.8±35.7 µg g−1) is the most abundant compound in smoke from incensing burning, followed by benzene, furfural, and phenol. Phenol, toluene, furfural, 2-furanmethanol, benzene, and benzyl alcohol are the main contributors to ozone and secondary organic aerosol (SOA) estimation. Intermediate volatility organic compounds (IVOCs) accounted for 19.2 % of the total EFs but 40.0 % of the estimated SOA. Additionally, a novel pixel-based method, combined with aroma analysis, revealed that furfural can act as a key tracer of incense burning and is responsible for the distinctive aroma of incense smoke. High-bioaccumulation-potential (BAP) assessment using pixel-based partition coefficient estimation revealed that acenaphthylene, dibenzofuran, and phthalate esters (PAEs) are chemicals of high-risk concern and warrant further control. Our results highlight the critical importance of investigating home-use incense burning and provide new insights into the health impacts of smoke from incense burning using novel approaches.

Ecological Environmentalism in Geg Ary Suharsani's Kunang-Kunang Hitam

The Tamblingan land conflict is closely related to the investment trend heading towards Bali’s upstream area. Investors are converting Tamblingan forest land into hotels and tourism to reap the benefits of nature tourism in the most natural forest. This issue is discussed in the novel Kunang-Kunang Hitam by Geg Ary Suharsani. This paper aims to describe the struggle of the female character Ni Luh Candri in the Tamblingan land conflict as narrated in the novel Kunang-Kunang Hitam (KKH). This study uses a Susan Griffin perspective ecofeminism approach. The results of this study indicate that the struggle of the female character Ni Luh Candri in defending the Tamblingan forest is divided into two forms: Ni Luh Candri’s struggles related to nature, such as refusing land conversion, protecting rare plants, symbolic communication to fireflies and Ni Luh Candri’s struggles related to nature humanistic environment, such as becoming Leak, burning incense, displaying rangda mask, and advocating for communities around the forest. This research proves that women can take various important actions (ecological environmentalism) to preserve the environment.

Characteristics of fine particles from incense burning at temple premises of Kathmandu Valley, Nepal.

The impact of incense burning on ambient air quality was investigated by measuring the concentrations of fine particles (PM2.5), elemental carbon (EC), organic carbon (OC), and their oxidative potential (OP) at three temple premises in Kathmandu Valley, Nepal. These temples, namely, Bajrabarahi, Bagalamukhi, and Bhadrakali, are located in three distinct environments: forest, residential, and roadside, respectively. During the incense burning event days, the PM2.5 concentration at Bhadrakali (431.4 μgm-3) was significantly higher than that measured at the Bagalamukhi (135.2 μgm-3) and Bajrabarahi (84.7 μgm-3) temple premises. This observation is consistent with the fact that Bhadrakali Temple had the highest intensity of incense burning. Additionally, the temple premises were also influenced by vehicular emissions from transportation facilities. Carbonaceous aerosols significantly increased during incense burning events, indicating that incense burning contributes significantly to the formation of primary and secondary OC. Moreover, the OP of PM2.5 during the incense burning event days was higher compared to non-event days (p < 0.05), suggesting an elevated health risk due to the increased concentration and toxicity of fine particles. These findings highlight the substantial impact of incense burning on air quality in temple premises, emphasizing the need to implement effective strategies to mitigate the associated health risks.

The effect of COVID-19 lockdown on particulate matters concentration: Case of land use regression difference modeling in Bangkok, Thailand

COVID-19 lockdowns around the world led to significant reductions in anthropogenic emissions, especially in developing countries across Asia. Our study, conducted in Bangkok, Thailand presents a more granular picture; while the annual average fine particulate matter (PM2.5) decreased by 23.8% during lockdowns, these pandemic restrictions had relatively less impact on particulate matter (PM10) and coarse particles (PMc). To provide a more comprehensive understanding of the effects of lockdown measures on particulate matter concentrations, this study employed a Land Use Regression (LUR) model. This research confirmed that a reduction in anthropogenic emissions, particularly in commercial and institutional areas could potentially reduce the PM2.5 concentration. Our results indicated that residential land use in Bangkok was not associated with higher PM2.5 levels than before the COVID-19 pandemic although Bangkok residents spent more time at home during lockdowns. In addition, Buddhist temple activities did not have a significant impact on PM2.5 levels. Although deaths due to COVID-19 and air pollutants from furnace cremations increased, the impact of cremations on PM2.5 was offset by a decrease in normal temple activities, such as burning incense. These evolving changes in anthropogenic emissions specific to different land uses deserve special attention from policymakers, especially as the Thai economy resumes full operations post-pandemic.

Measurement report: Source apportionment and environmental impacts of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in Lhasa, a highland city in China

Abstract. Hypoxia and adverse health outcomes might be affected by O3 pollution in the highland city of Lhasa. NOx emissions can amplify the role of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the secondary production of O3 under the conditions of high ultraviolet (UV) radiation levels and unfavourable dispersion patterns in the Lhasa River valley. Here, online C2–C11 VOC measurements, accompanied by other parameters concerning the O3 chemical budget, were first obtained and employed to identify the key VOC species and key sources of VOCs in terms of the loss rate against OH radicals (LOH), ozone formation potential (OFP), secondary organic aerosol potential (SOAP), and toxicity. Oxygenated VOCs (OVOCs) not only were the most abundant VOCs but also dominated LOH, OFP, and toxicity. Isoprene and anthropogenic VOCs were further identified as precursors of these OVOCs. Aromatics accounted for 5 % of the total VOCs (TVOCs) but contributed 88 % to the SOAP and 10 % to the toxicity. As the primary oxidative intermediates of aromatics were not well characterized by our measurements, the environmental impact of aromatics could be underestimated by our data. Source appointment and ternary analysis of benzene, toluene, and ethylbenzene confirmed the combined contribution of traffic emissions, solvent usage, and biomass burning. This suggests that O3 precursors are mainly from sources associated with residents' lives, except for solvent usage emissions which contribute to aromatics. Preliminary comparisons between source spectrums of transport sector emissions with positive matrix factorization (PMF)-decomposed ones and our measured ones suggest that vehicle emission patterns of VOCs at high altitude generally follow the ground-level impression. More quantitative data are required to further confirm this point though. Emission reduction strategy analysis for O3 pollution control highlighted multiple benefits of the simultaneous reduction in NOx originating from diesel vehicle emissions, biomass burning, and background sources (possibly dominated by incense burning). The notable biogenic emission contribution to the OFP was also first confirmed in our study, and this highlights the side effects of the government's pursuit of a greener city.

Exposure to incense burning, biomarkers, and the physical health of temple workers in Taiwan

Incense burning releases heavy particulate matter (PM) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2), known to have adverse effects on human health. Long-term exposure to PM and NO2 increases inflammatory cytokine levels and can induce respiratory diseases. This study examined the association between incense burning exposure and the health status, especially inflammatory biomarkers, of temple workers and volunteers in Taiwan. The longitudinal observational study compared adult temple workers and volunteers, with long-term incense burning exposure, to residents from outpatient clinics in the Chiayi area. Forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) and serum and exhaled breath condensate (EBC) cytokines were assessed. Nonparametric Mann-Whitney U tests were used to compare cytokine levels of the exposure and control groups during the cold and hot weather seasons. FEV1 was significantly more diminished in the exposed group than in the control group during the cold season. Exposure status was associated with greater hot-cold seasonal differences in serum interleukins (IL)-1β (regression coefficient (B) = 6.6, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 5.0 to 8.3, p < .001), IL17-A (B = 2.4, 95% CI = 0.3 to 4.5, p = .03), and plasminogen activator inhibitor [PAI]-1 (B = 5.4, 95% CI = 1.5 to 9.3, p = .009). After adjusting for confounders, the groups’ serum levels of IL-1β, IL-17A, and PAI-1 significantly differed. EBC cytokines did not show significant differences. Elevated levels of IL-1β, IL17-A, and PAI-1 have been associated with various autoinflammatory syndromes and diseases. Given the cultural significance of incense burning, culturally sensitive interventions, including education, policy development, and program implementation, are crucial to protect individuals’ health, especially temple workers, from the adverse effects of exposure, addressing the manufacture, importation, and sale of incense.

Removal of incense smoke and corollary particulate matter using a portable bipolar air ionizer in an unventilated setup

Introduction: Indoor air pollution-associated health risk is substantially higher than outdoor. Incense smoke represents a group of multiple hazardous air pollutants including particulate matter. Bipolar air ionizers have been one of the most escalated indoor air cleaning options in recent years. Albeit, removal efficiency against incense smoke and potential byproduct ozone have been little understood due to limited studies.Method: The present study assessed a portable needlepoint technology-based bipolar air ionizer’s removal efficacy against incense smoke in unventilated glass boxes (size 0.16 m3). A series of experiments were performed in order to estimate the average efficiency. The total removal efficacy of bipolar air ionizer (BAI eff.) was estimated by using empirical equations of the particulate matter PM2.5 (BAI eff. pm2.5) and PM10 removal (BAI eff.pm10). Particulate matter was used as the marker of incense smoke in this study. The concentration of particulate matter, potential byproduct ozone, relative humidity, and the temperature was monitored by a customized sensor-based air quality monitor.Results: The tested bipolar air ionizer showed a significant decline in incense smoke. The average reduction in PM2.5 and PM10 concentration was observed by 74%–75%. The overall efficacy (BAI eff) against incense smoke particulate proportion was 90% ± 10% compared to the control. Byproduct ozone was not exceeded abnormally. However, the marginal elevation in temperature and humidity (up to 5°C or 21%) and humidity (1.8%) were observed when the bipolar air ionizer was conducted.Discussion: Incense smoke consists of multiple hazardous air pollutants including volatile organic compounds and carcinogens. Incense smoke may be the major source of household pollution. A portable bipolar air ionizer could be an auxiliary air cleaning option where incense burning practices are common.

Simbol Kesenian Kuda Lumping Bagi Masyarakat Di Kelurahan Gunung Lengkuas

Kuda Lumping is a dance art in which in the performance process there are several things which are symbolized by mystical things, namely the ritual of burning incense, offerings of offerings and attractions of trance. The purpose of this study is to find out how the symbol of the Kuda Lumping art is for the people in Gunung Lengkuas Village. In this study the theory used by researchers is the Symbolic Interactionist theory. The method used in this study uses a descriptive-qualitative method which examines the artistic symbols of the Kuda Lumping for the people in Gunung Lengkuas Village. by using purposive sampling technique. Based on the results of the study, the researcher found that with the process contained in the Kuda Lumping performance where the community symbolizes that the things contained in the Kuda Lumping performance process are offering sesajen, burning kemenyan and the attraction of kesurupan is symbolized as mystical, thus an assumption or the meaning in society regarding the Lumping Horse is different which of course this is closely related to symbolic interactionism, where individuals or society in interpreting or assuming something based on creation through an interaction process which then chooses, evaluates, thinks, classifies and transforms the meaning of an object. So that in interpreting the art of Kuda Lumping it goes through an interaction process which then the individual concludes. In the community of the Gunung Lengkuas sub-district, 2 different meanings have been created regarding the Lumping Horse, namely the first, the Lumping Horse as entertainment and the Lumping Horse as a Mystical performance.

Pandangan Islam terhadap Pemakaian Kemenyan pada Masyarakat Suku Jawa Studi Kasus Desa Laugambir Kecamatan STM Hilir Kabupaten Deli Serdang

This research is entitled about the Islamic view of the use of incense in the Javanese community. This research is a qualitative research oriented to field research (Library Research) using an Anthropological approach, and the theory is Ethnicity. Sources of data generated from the results of interviews, observations, and documentation. The results of this study indicate that in Laugambir Village, burning incense is a ritual that has been going on for a long time and is part of everyday life. However, local residents are not even sure of the origin of this custom of burning incense. This practice of burning incense is carried out many times at various events, such as grave pilgrimages, celebrations of the Prophet's birthday, peusijuk assemblies, votive contests, and so on. No special equipment is required for the incense burning procession itself, and no special individual or individuals are required to burn the incense. However, locals usually delegate it to their elders or those who are familiar with the prayers involved in the incense burning ritual. There are some people who do not want to take part in this procession for fear that they will deviate from asking for the incense smoke. In this tradition, basically there are many pros and cons both in terms of opinion and the implementation of the incense burning procession in people's lives. However, the literal meaning is to invoke and pray to God through the use of incense.

Sulfate Formation by Photosensitization in Mixed Incense Burning-Sodium Chloride Particles: Effects of RH, Light Intensity, and Aerosol Aging.

Elevated particulate sulfate concentrations have been frequently observed in coastal areas when air masses are influenced by continental emissions, especially combustion sources like biomass burning. We studied the SO2 uptake by laboratory-generated droplets containing incense smoke extracts and sodium chloride (IS-NaCl) under irradiation and found enhanced sulfate production over pure NaCl droplets, attributable to photosensitization induced by constituents in IS. Low relative humidity and high light intensity facilitated sulfate formation and increased the SO2 uptake coefficient by IS-NaCl particles. Aging of the IS particles further enhanced sulfate production, attributable to the enhanced secondary oxidant production promoted by increased proportions of nitrogen-containing CHN and oxygen- and nitrogen-containing CHON species under light and air. Experiments using model compounds of syringaldehyde, pyrazine, and 4-nitroguaiacol verified the enhancements of CHN and CHON species in sulfate formation. This work provides experimental evidence of enhanced sulfate production in laboratory-generated IS-NaCl droplets via enhanced secondary oxidant production triggered by photosensitization in multiphase oxidation processes under light and air. Our results can shed light on the possible interactions between sea salt and biomass burning aerosols in enhancing sulfate production.

Particulate organic emissions from incense-burning smoke: Chemical compositions and emission characteristics

Incense burning is a common practice in Asian cultures, releasing hazardous particulate organics. Inhaling incense smoke can result in adverse health effects, yet the molecular compositions of incense-burning organics have not been well investigated due to the lack of measurement of intermediate-volatility and semi-volatile organic compounds (I/SVOCs). To elucidate the detailed emission profile of incense-burning particles, we conducted a non-target measurement of organics emitted from incense combustion. Quartz filters were utilized to trap particles, and organics were analyzed by a comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography-mass spectrometer (GC × GC–MS) coupled with a thermal desorption system (TDS). To deal with the complex data obtained by GC × GC–MS, homologs are identified mainly by the combination of selected ion chromatograms (SICs) and retention indexes. SICs of 58, 60, 74, 91, and 97 were utilized to identify 2-ketones, acids, fatty acid methyl esters, fatty acid phenylmethyl esters, and alcohols, respectively. Phenolic compounds contribute the most to emission factors (EFs) among all chemical classes, taking up 24.5 % ± 6.5 % of the total EF (96.1 ± 43.1 μg g−1). These compounds are largely derived from the thermal degradation of lignin. Biomarkers like sugars (mainly levoglucosan), hopanes, and sterols are extensively detected in incense combustion fumes. Incense materials play a more important role in shaping emission profiles than incense forms. Our study provides a detailed emission profile of particulate organics emitted from incense burning across the full-volatility range, which can be used in the health risk assessments. The data processing procedure in this work could also benefit those with less experience in non-target analysis, especially GC × GC–MS data processing.

Determination of Particulate Matters and Total Suspended Particles emitted from Incense Burning

Incense burning is an important ceremonial ritual in Buddhism. It is well recognized that incense smoke has negative health effects, which may be caused by the emission of submicron particles, including ultrafine and nanoparticles. Hence, in this study, the concentration of particulate matter (PM) and total suspended particles (TSP) emitted from incense burning were determined from 4 incense stick brands. The experiment was conducted in a room with a volume of approximately 146m3 using two instruments: an HV sampler and a Nano Sampler. The highest TSPs concentration from long sticks and short sticks were S1 (319.03 μg/m3) and N2 (439.75 μg/m3), respectively. High mass concentration was found in the ultrafine particle range for S2 (112.27 μg/m3) and N2 (117.30 μg/m3). In contrast, S1 and N1 exhibited high concentrations in the coarse particle mode at 79.28 μg/m3 and 86.75 μg/m3, respectively. Out of the 4 incense brands, N2 appeared to have the highest concentration in almost every particle range compared to the other 3 brands. Incense should be burned in a well-ventilated setting and try not to stay in the same place as the altar to reduce the risk of incense smoke exposure.

The Making of White Porcelain Incense Burner in Early Chosŏn and their Uses in Royal Ceremonies

This study focuses on white porcelain incense burners used for royal ancestral rites in Chosŏn. Starting from early examples of Confucian incense burners, I have examined their production process and characteristics. As incense burning was an essential part of Confucian rites, incense burners also became important vessels. The earliest examples are found at Pŏnch’ŏn-ri site No. 21, dated to 1420-40, and they likely resemble the prototypes of ceremonial incense burners made of metal. Incense burners were influenced by the changes in the Chosŏn society and incense burning methods, and they took the shape of ding with cover. This testifies to the effort made to prepare suitable burners for Confucian rituals. Surviving records state that incense burners were to convey the simple and rustic beauty of the earth, and to work as simple &lt;i&gt;so-gi&lt;/i&gt;, which were likely the reasons for making incense burners in white porcelain. It is also noteworthy that early Chosŏn style and uses continued to influence those of the mid-and late Chosŏn. In conclusion, the material of white porcelain and the shape of incense burners were chosen according to their uses, and they developed independently of metalware, not as mere substitutes.

Influence of Residential Combustion on Total Gaseous Mercury (TGM) Levels: a Preliminary Study at an Urban Megacity in Vietnam

Mercury (Hg) is a global pollutant that has gained monumental attention in recent decades due to its neurotoxicity and great bioaccumulation features. The atmosphere plays a key role in the movement of Hg in the environment, and residential combustion is a significant contributor to atmospheric Hg. However, there is a severe lack of research on the impact of Hg emissions from residential combustion in Southeast Asia (SEA). This study focused to illustrate the contribution of residential combustion on the level of total gaseous mercury (TGM) in a tropical megacity in southern Vietnam by conducting a short field campaign in February 2023. The mean TGM concentration during the study period was 2.27 ± 0.81 ng m-3, in which daytime TGM level (7 am – 7 pm, 2.56 ± 0.80 ng m-3) was significantly higher than at night (7 pm – 7 am, 1.58 ± 0.28 ng m-3), which could be attributed to local burning activities. The TGM concentration was also increased because of the increase in burning activities (i.e. burning joss paper and incense) during the Lantern Festival. Backward trajectory analysis suggested the domination of regional background air mass in the study area, implying that TGM concentration variation is mostly associated with local influences. We estimated that residential combustion caused a rise of around 70% in TGM concentration at the sampling site. Overall, this is the first study to illustrate the importance of Hg emissions from residential combustion in urban SEA region, laying a background for upcoming studies in atmospheric Hg in this region.

The Presence of Aromatic Substances in Incense: Determining Indoor Air Quality and Its Impact on Human Health

Indoor air quality has become a topic of great concern. Burning incense has recently been identified as one of the primary sources of volatile organic compounds, specifically benzene, in an indoor setting. The current paper aims to evaluate volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions, particularly benzene, within indoor environments through the utilization of an experimental clean room. Experimental findings showed that 10 types of incense sticks emitted benzene in concentrations between 11.1 and 66.5 μg m−3, which were 2.5 lower than the limit suggested for non-occupation indoor exposure (160 μg m−3), identified by the American Association of Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH). Furthermore, a correlation between the dimensions (diameter and length) of the combustible parts in an incense stick was investigated and indicated a slight influence on the release of benzene. Taking into consideration the substantial influence benzene has on human health, coupled with a lack of precise legislation regarding indoor air quality in residential settings, this research serves as an initial investigation into the noteworthy effects of burning incense in private and public indoor settings.

Function and Pedagogical Value in Banjet Mask Group Performance Abah Pendul

Topeng Banjet is one of the distinctive arts that is a heritage of art and culture that has traditionally existed and developed in Karawang Regency since the 1920s. The focus of the study is on Topeng Banjet Group Sinar Pusaka Karawang in Tempuran District and commonly known as Topeng Banjet Abah Pendul. The purpose of this study is to reveal the function of art and pedagogical values contained in the Topeng Banjet performance process. The performance is carried out through a process of stages namely; ngukus, songs and music, tap tilu dance, jokes and plays on an open field. The study is based on descriptive analytical qualitative data collected by observation, interview and documentation. This study includes pedagogical functions and values; education, educational content and educational tools. The purpose of education is required where every citizen or community is required to learn and practice mastery sourced from local cultural traditions. The Topeng Banjet performance originally functioned as a thanksgiving for the harvest. The Topeng Banjet Group Sinar Pusaka Warna has experienced several changes in leadership from the 1920s until now; as an educational tool, habits, recommendations, monitoring, taboos, and consequences are used in the implementation process at the beginning of the performance; ngukus or rituals at the beginning to ask the Almighty for all the blessings of the harvest and the smooth running of the show after praying the players sprinkle flower water on the musical instruments used and rub the smoke of burning incense all over the face and body of the players followed by musical entertainment, songs, dances, and dramas.

Secondary aerosol formation in incense burning particles by O3 and OH oxidation via single particle mixing state analysis

Incense burning is a common religious activity that emits abundant gaseous and particulate pollutants into the atmosphere. During their atmospheric lifetime, these gases and particles are subjected to oxidation, leading to the formation of secondary pollutants. We examined the oxidation of incense burning plumes under O3 exposure and dark condition using an oxidation flow reactor connected to a single particle aerosol mass spectrometer (SPAMS). Nitrate formation was observed in incense burning particles, mainly attributable to the ozonolysis of nitrogen-containing organic compounds. With UV on, nitrate formation was significantly enhanced, likely due to HNO3/HNO2/NOx uptake triggered by OH chemistry, which is more effective than ozone oxidation. The extent of nitrate formation is insensitive to O3 and OH exposure, possibly due to the diffusion limitation on interfacial uptake. The O3-UV-aged particles are more oxygenated and functionalized than O3-Dark-aged particles. Oxalate and malonate, two typical secondary organic aerosol (SOA) components, were found in O3-UV-aged particles. Our work reveals that nitrate, accompanied by SOA, can rapidly form in incense-burning particles upon photochemical oxidation in the atmosphere, which could deepen our understanding of air pollution caused by religious activities.