Continuous Thermodynamic Profiling for Air Quality Applications

Stability within the atmospheric boundary layer is a fundamental parameter to understanding air quality dispersion. Stable and inversion conditions trap pollutants and limit the upward dispersion. Rapid changes in these capping layers commonly occur, making continuous boundary layer temperature measurements essential for effective local air quality monitoring and prediction. Cloud, liquid content and boundary layer moisture are also key to air quality monitoring, modeling and prediction. We present continuous thermodynamic (temperature, humidity and liquid) profiles measured by commercial microwave radiometers at Las Vegas and in the Denver Basin.