Background

The atmosphere is a complex photochemical reactor that contains a gas-particles mixture of natural and anthropogenic compounds with diverse properties, producing adverse effects on human health, ecology, ozone depletion, and climate (Finlayson-Pitts and Pitts, 2000). Since the industrial revolution, a strong anthropogenic influence on the tropospheric composition has taken place.

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are the dominant organics emitted in the atmosphere. Their further oxidation influence the concentration of radicals, directly related to methane lifetimes, and the production of secondary organic aerosols (SOA) with an impact on air quality and climate change.