Molecular characterization of atmospheric organic aerosols: Contemporary applications of high-resolution mass spectrometry

Abstract

Recent advances in the molecular characterization of atmospheric organic aerosols by high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) have significantly enhanced our understanding of atmospheric chemistry and its environmental implications. This perspective review manuscript showcases the contemporary applications of HRMS methodologies in both field and laboratory studies of organic aerosols. Structured into three sections, the review begins with investigations utilizing ultrahigh mass resolving power to explore the precursors and formation mechanisms of organosulfur, organophosphorus, and other multifunctional species within organic aerosol mixtures. The second section discusses novel applications for understanding the atmospheric chemistry of brown carbon, facilitating the classification of brown carbon chromophores and quantifying their contributions to light absorption. The third section highlights studies on the gas-particle partitioning of organic aerosol components, examining their composition and viscosity. The manuscript concludes by discussing future research directions in this field, highlighting ongoing advancements and potential areas for further exploration.