Compact, Lightweight Dynamic Saturation Cloud Condensation Nuclei Spectrometer for UAV Missions

Cloud condensation nuclei measurements are important in assessing the cloud microphysics and radiative properties of ambient aerosols and help to model the climate system more accurately. A field-deployable cloud condensation nuclei spectrometer that is capable of measuring cloud condensation nuclei size distributions and taking unmanned aerial vehicle missions is not available to date. The proposed idea of developing a compact, lightweight cloud condensation nuclei spectrometer takes advantage of a few proprietary innovative ideas and technologies available today. It will be capable of field-deployment specifically for unmanned aerial vehicle missions. During Phase I, we will develop a working spectrometer prototype to demonstrate high-resolution size, concentration, and size distribution measurements of cloud condensation nuclei. A next generation condensation nuclei spectrometer will be constructed during a Phase II and ready for field operational assessment on unmanned aerial vehicle missions. Meanwhile, we will explore and identify the most promising commercial applications and commercially viable products. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits: Ultrafine particles, including cloud condensation nuclei, are present in the ambient atmosphere and are generated from atmospheric gases, pollution sources and combustion. In addition to Department of Energys need for cloud condensation nuclei measurements to assess the cloud microphysics and radiative properties of ambient aerosols, the developed spectrometers will advance the existing commercial condensation nuclei counter markets for both industrial and commercial applications. Of primary concern in the working environment are inhalation and skin exposures to nanoparticles. The technology developed under this proposed idea will likely result in various instruments as potential viable commercial products for ultrafine particle detection.