Growth Characteristics of Atmospheric Fine Particles in Turbulent Water Vapor Environment

Abstract

A heterogeneous condensation process facilitates the growth of fine particulate matter, making it more easily removable. The aim of this study was to effectively eliminate pre-existing fine particles in the atmosphere by investigating the growth characteristics of particles in turbulent water vapor environments using experimental and numerical methods. The results reveal that the presence of soluble and hydrophilic particles in atmospheric fine particulate matter enhances their growth compared to coal particles. Increasing temperature differences, reducing particle number concentrations, and elevating the proportion of soluble particle components contribute to particle growth. When the temperature difference is below 10K, particle growth is less effective. The beneficial impact of particle collision and coagulation, partly offsetting water vapor competition, was observed with an increase in particle number concentration. The addition of soluble and hydrophilic components promoted particle activation, further fostering particle growth. The region near the wall exhibited more significant particle growth due to higher supersaturation and lower flow velocity. These findings theoretically support the application of heterogeneous condensation processes in atmospheric purification.