Centre for Atmospheric Chemistry

The central role of atmospheric chemistry in all aspects of global climate change is undisputed.

The Centre for Atmospheric Chemistry is investigating atmospheric composition at a local through to global scales.

In support of this work, we are working in the following key areas:

Field-based measurements of trace gas concentrations and fluxes using FTIR. We have recently made mesurements at sites including Tumbarrumba (NSW) and Kyabrum (Vic), and the caves at Jenolan, NSW. These experiments have included open path measurements.

Atmospheric Chemical Transport Modelling. Modeling the transport and reaction in the atmosphere.

Solar Infrared spectroscopy using a high resolution FTIR spectrometer in Wollongong. From these infrared spectra total column amounts of a very wide range of trace gas species are derived.

Stable isotope ratios in atmospheric trace gases measured by FTIR

Solar radiation (UV and visible), which provides much of the energy necessary for changes in atmospheric chemistry. This is tied to research at the Cape Grim Baseline Air Pollution Station.

Members of the group are active participants in a number of national and international networks, including the ARC Network for Earth Systems Science, the Network for Detection of Atmospheric Composition Change (NDACC) and the Total Column Carbon Observing Network (TCCON)

Below is a photo (Courtesy Prof. John Burrows), taken at the ARCNESS Winter School “Atmospheric composition observation and modeling” at the University of Wollongong, 13 - 17 August 2007. See also the Winter School website.