Atmospheric Simulation Chambers in the ACTRIS Research Infrastructure

Abstract

Abstract. Atmospheric simulation chambers are one of the best available tools to study atmospheric processes, as they enable experiments under conditions that are both reproducible and well-controlled. 14 unique simulation chamber facilities are part of the distributed pan-European Aerosol, Clouds and Trace Gases Research Infrastructure (ACTRIS). Their research focuses on fundamental gas-phase reaction kinetics, complex reaction mechanisms, aerosol formation and cloud chemistry, as well as other aspects of atmospheric processes. They use both simplified and complex air mixtures in their research. Results of chamber experiments enable the discovery of unknown chemical mechanisms and the determination of physicochemical parameters of atmospheric constituents. Simulation chambers are ideal for testing instruments and quality assurance of their data. The variability of their research capability is reflected in differences in the size (ranging from approximately 1 to 270 m3, the wall material, and the type of instrumentation used to measure physical parameters, gas-phase species, physicochemical properties of aerosol particles as well as cloud droplets and ice crystals. Most chambers in ACTRIS are indoors and use artificial light sources to initiate photochemical reactions while some chambers are located outside so that natural sunlight can be used. During experiments, steady state conditions may be achieved, the evolution of initial conditions may be observed, or expansion and mixing techniques may induce cloud formation. In this paper, the ACTRIS simulation chambers are described along with the quality control measures for carrying out experiments and reporting data. An overview of how users from the research community and industry can gain access to the ACTRIS simulation chambers and associated data centre is presented. Recent developments in the application of ACTRIS simulation chambers for answering current and future atmospheric research questions are discussed.