A review of secondary organic aerosols formation focusing on organosulfates and organic nitrates

Secondary organic aerosols (SOA) are crucial constitution of fine particulate matter (PM), which are mainly derived from photochemical oxidation products of primary organic matter and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and can induce terrible impacts to human health, air quality and climate change. As we know, organosulfates (OSs) and organic nitrates (ON) are important contributors for SOA formation, which could be possibly produced through various pathways, resulting in extremely complex formation mechanism of SOA. Although plenty of research has been focused on the origins, spatial distribution and formation mechanisms of SOA, a comprehensive and systematic understanding of SOA formation in the atmosphere remains to be detailed explored, especially the most important OSs and ON dedications. Thus, in this review, we systematically summarize the recent research about origins and formation mechanisms of OSs and ON, and especially focus on their contribution to SOA, so as to have a clearer understanding of the origin, spatial distribution and formation principle of SOA. Importantly, we interpret the complex interaction with coexistence effect of SOx and NOx on SOA formation, and emphasize the future insights for SOA research to expect a more comprehensive theory and practice to alleviate SOA burden.

Automated summary

Secondary organic aerosols (SOA) are an important component of fine particulate matter, with significant impacts on human health, air quality, and climate change. Organosulfates (OSs) and organic nitrates (ON) are key contributors to SOA formation, and their formation mechanisms are complex. Further research is needed to comprehensively understand the formation of SOA, particularly the contributions of OSs and ON.