Measurement of the optical extinction coefficient of combustion-generated aerosol

This note describes measurements of the mass-specific extinction coefficient, σs, of carbonaceous aerosol produced during hydrocarbon combustion. Measurements of σs were obtained by laser extinction at λ=632nm. The aerosol was generated using a laminar diffusion flame, and the mass-specific extinction coefficient determined as a function of the global equivalence ratio, φ. The elemental carbon content of the aerosol was also determined with respect to φ. A relationship was developed between the elemental carbon/total carbon (EC/TC) ratio and σs. A simple method of producing laboratory aerosol with controlled EC/TC ratio is also presented.