Ozone Pollution in Shanghai Urban Area Linked to Harmful VOCs Levels
The researchers analyzed volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in Shanghai during an ozone episode in 2010. They found that VOC levels peaked in the morning and evening, with major components being alkanes, aromatics, alkenes, and acetylene. The Maximum Ozone Formation Potential (OFP) also peaked during these times, with aromatics being the biggest contributor to ozone formation. Compounds like xylenes, toluene, propylene, and ethane played a significant role in ozone formation. There was a negative correlation between ozone levels and OFP, indicating strong atmospheric reactivity. The findings suggest that there is still room for OFP to be transformed into ozone.