Surfactants in cloud droplet activation: mixed organic-inorganic particles

• DOI: 10.5194/acp-10-5663-2010
• Publication Date: 2010-06-29T09:27:02Z
• Authors: N. L. Prisle; T. Raatikainen; A. Laaksonen; M. Bilde
• Keywords: Cloud condensation nuclei; Sodium dodecyl sulfate

Abstract. Organic compounds with surfactant properties are commonly found in atmospheric aerosol particles. Surface activity can significantly influence the cloud droplet forming ability of these We have studied formation by two-component particles comprising one organic surfactants sodium octanoate, decanoate, dodecanoate, and dodecyl sulfate, mixed chloride. Critical supersaturations were measured a static diffusion condensation nucleus counter (Wyoming CCNC-100B). Results modeled from Köhler theory applying three different representations terms surface partitioning reduced tension. here confirm previous results for single-component particles, that experimental critical greatly underpredicted, if tension is used while ignoring effects droplets. Furthermore, disregarding assuming constant pure water also lead to significant underpredictions supersaturations. For less than 50% mass surfactant, this approach however still provides good description observed activation. A comprehensive account properties, including both reduction activating droplets, generally predicts well.