Atmospheric Ammonia: Sources and Fate. A Review of Ongoing Federal Research and Future Needs.

摘要

Gaseous ammonia has long been known to play a key role in atmospheric chemical processes and, following deposition, in the biogeochemical processes that occur in sensitive ecosystems (forests, soils, streams, and coastal waters). Ammonia also reacts rapidly with atmospherically-formed sulfuric and nitric acids to contribute to ambient levels of fine particles. The need to better understand the role of this important air pollutant has been underscored in recent years as ammonia emissions from intensive animal production facilities are on the increase and the Nation works to craft effective management strategies for fine particles in an effort to mitigate concerns over public health impacts and to enhance visibility in pristine areas of the country.