Magee AE31 Aethalometer

The AE31 Rack-mount Aethalometer measures optical absorption by suspended aerosol particles at seven wavelengths, from 370 nm (UV) to 950 nm (IR). The 880 nm wavelength is used to take in account for Black Carbon absorption, while the 370 nm wavelength gives information on the presence of aromatic organic compounds such as are found in wood smoke, biomass-burning smoke, and tobacco smoke. Real-time measurements of particle concentrations can be made with a time resolution of two minutes to one hour. Interpretation of the differences in optical response across the wavelength spectrum gives information on aerosol size distribution, phisical properties, and helps in identifying the primary components. This instrument is widely used in monitoring studies involving large scale, regional air pollution problems.