Mid-infrared absorption cross sections for acetone (propanone)

Infrared absorption cross sections for acetone (propanone) have been determined in the 830-1950 cm−1 spectral region from spectra recorded using a high-resolution FTIR spectrometer (Bruker IFS 125HR) and a multipass cell with a maximum optical path length of 19.3 m. The spectra of mixtures of acetone with dry synthetic air were recorded at 0.015 cm−1 resolution (calculated as 0.9/MOPD using the Bruker definition of resolution) at a number of temperatures between 194 and 251 K and pressures appropriate for atmospheric conditions. Intensities were calibrated using three acetone spectra (recorded at 278, 293 and 323 K) taken from the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) IR database. The new absorption cross sections have been combined with previous high spectral resolution results to create a more complete set of acetone absorption cross sections appropriate for atmospheric remote sensing. These cross sections will provide an accurate basis for upper tropospheric/lower stratospheric retrievals of acetone in the mid-infrared spectral region from ACE and MIPAS satellite data.

Research highlights► Acetone infrared absorption cross sections have been determined from 830 to 1950 cm−1.► These cover temperatures from 194 to 251 K and appropriate atmospheric pressures.► A more complete set of cross sections for atmospheric remote sensing is now available.► These cross sections will allow retrievals of acetone from ACE and MIPAS satellite data.