Volatile chemical products emerging as largest petrochemical source of urban organic emissions

• DOI: 10.1126/science.aaq0524
• Publication Date: 2018-02-20T19:18:37Z
• Authors: Brian C. McDonald; Joost A. de Gouw; Jessica B. Gilman; Shantanu H. Jathar; Ali Akherati; Christopher D. Cappa; Jose L. Jimenez; Julia Lee-Taylor; Patrick L. Hayes; Stuart A. McKeen; Yu Yan Cui; Si-Wan Kim; Drew R. Gentner; Gabriel Isaacman-...; Allen H. Goldstein; Robert A. Harley; Gregory J. Frost; James M. Roberts; Thomas B. Ryerson; Michael Trainer
• Keywords: Petrochemical; Chemical industry

Air pollution evolution Transport-derived emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) have decreased owing to stricter controls on air pollution. This means that the relative importance chemicals in pesticides, coatings, printing inks, adhesives, cleaning agents, and personal care products has increased. McDonald et al. show these chemical now contribute fully one-half emitted VOCs 33 industrialized cities (see Perspective by Lewis). Thus, focus efforts mitigate ozone formation toxic burdens need be adjusted. Science , this issue p. 760 ; see also 744