Ocean fertilization by pyrogenic aerosol iron

Aerosols supply bioaccessible iron to marine biota which could affect climate through biogeochemical feedbacks. This paper review progresses in research on pyrogenic aerosol iron. Observations and laboratory experiments indicate that the iron solubility of pyrogenic aerosol can be considerably higher than lithogenic aerosol. Aerosol models highlight a significant contribution of pyrogenic aerosols (similar to 20%) to the atmospheric supply of dissolved iron into the ocean. Some ocean models suggest a higher efficiency of pyrogenic iron in enhancing marine productivity than lithogenic sources. It is, however, challenging to quantitatively estimate its impact on the marine biogeochemical cycles under the changing air quality and climate.

Automated summary

Aerosols supply bioaccessible iron to marine biota, impacting climate through biogeochemical feedbacks. Research shows that pyrogenic aerosol iron has higher solubility than lithogenic aerosol, with a significant contribution to atmospheric supply of dissolved iron to the ocean. Models suggest pyrogenic iron enhances marine productivity more efficiently than lithogenic sources, but quantifying its impact on marine biogeochemical cycles under changing air quality and climate remains challenging.