Highly Oxygenated Organic Molecules (HOM) from Gas-Phase Autoxidation Involving Peroxy Radicals: A Key Contributor to Atmospheric Aerosol

Abstract

Highly oxygenated organic molecules (HOM) are formed in the atmosphere via autoxidation involving peroxy radicals arising from volatile organic compounds (VOC). HOM condense on pre-existing particles and can be involved in new particle formation. HOM thus contribute to the formation of secondary organic aerosol (SOA), a significant and ubiquitous component of atmospheric aerosol known to affect the Earth's radiation balance. HOM were discovered only very recently, but the interest in these compounds has grown rapidly. In this Review, we define HOM and describe the currently available techniques for their identification/quantification, followed by a summary of the current knowledge on their formation mechanisms and physicochemical properties. A main aim is to provide a common frame for the currently quite fragmented literature on HOM studies. Finally, we highlight the existing gaps in our understanding and suggest directions for future HOM research.

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Affiliated Institutions

• Beijing University of Chemical Technology CN
• Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique FR
• California Institute of Technology US
• Carnegie Mellon University US
• Leibniz Institute for Tropospheric Research DE
• University of Helsinki FI
• Aerodyne Research US
• Lund University SE
• Forschungszentrum Jülich DE
• University of Tartu EE
• University of Washington US
• Institut de Recherches sur la Catalyse et l'Environnement de Lyon FR
• Stockholm University SE
• University of Copenhagen DK
• Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1 FR

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