Research on ozone formation sensitivity based on observational methods: Development history, methodology, and application and prospects in China

Abstract

Observation-based method for O₃ formation sensitivity research is an important tool to analyze the causes of ground-level O₃ pollution, which has broad application potentials in determining the O₃ pollution formation mechanism and developing prevention and control strategies. This paper outlined the development history of research on O₃ formation sensitivity based on observational methods, described the principle and applicability of the methodology, summarized the relative application results in China and provided recommendations on the prevention and control of O₃ pollution in China based on relevant study results, and finally pointed out the shortcomings and future development prospects in this field in China. The overview study showed that the O₃ formation sensitivity in some urban areas in China in recent years presented a gradual shifting tendency from the VOC-limited regime to the transition regime or the NO_x-limited regime due to the implementation of the O₃ precursors emission reduction policies; O₃ pollution control strategies and precursor control countermeasures should be formulated based on local conditions and the dynamic control capability of O₃ pollution control measures should be improved. There are still some current deficiencies in the study field in China. Therefore, it is recommended that a stereoscopic monitoring network for atmospheric photochemical components should be further constructed and improved; the atmospheric chemical mechanisms should be vigorously developed, and standardized methods for determining the O₃ formation sensitivity should be established in China in the near future.