(주)에이피엠엔지니어링

Seasonal and regional variations of atmospheric ammonia across the South Korean Peninsula

Abstract

This study aimed to identify the factors causing NH3 emissions in the South Korean Peninsula and West Sea region. To

analyze the trends of NH3 and other air pollutants, such as NOx, CO, and NR-PM1, we collected samples from six supersites

across the peninsula, a roadside in Seoul, and the West Sea over different sampling periods, ranging from 1 month to 1 year.

The highest NH3 concentrations were found at rural areas, ascribed to agricultural activities, particularly NH4NO3 decomposition

at high summer temperatures. Areas with low population densities recorded the lowest NH3 concentrations, attributed to the lack

of anthropogenic activities. A roadside field experiment confirmed the close link between ambient NH3 and vehicle emissions in

urban regions by showing a strong correlation between CO and NOx concentrations and that of NH3. Moreover, we examined

oceanic emissions near the eastern coast of South Korea in the West Sea. Long-range transportation studies confirmed that

most of the pollutants (NH3, CO, and PM1) were transported by wind from the northeastern region of China. A maritime origin

study showed that oceanic emissions and NH4NO3 decomposition in the atmosphere owing to high temperatures were the

causing NH3 pollution. These findings provided valuable insights into the emission sources of NH3 in primary air pollutants in

South Korea, highlighting the contributions of land-based and oceanic sources. Our study can help inform policymakers and

stakeholders for developing effective regional air pollution control strategies.

Key words 

NH3, Seasonal variation, Emission sources, Ammonia concentration, Passive sampler method, Korean Peninsula