The influence of emission control on particle number size distribution and new particle formation during China's V-Day parade in 2015

Temporary strict emission control strategies were conducted to ensure good air quality for China's V-Day parade (August 20–September 3, 2015) in Beijing and nearby cities. The influence of the emission control on particle number size distribution (PNSD) was evaluated based on the long-term measurements of PNSD at a rural site (Shangdianzi) located northeast of Beijing. This study also presented the comparison results of PNSD during the parade in 2015 and the Olympics in 2008 (August 8–23), as well as the same period without strict emission control in 2010–2013 (August 20–September 3). Compared with the same period in 2010–2013 and 2008 Olympics, the accumulation mode particle number concentration showed a significant reduction in 2015, and the PM1 mass concentration decreased by approximately 60–90%. The alleviation of the PM1 was also associated with the weather conditions. The back trajectories analysis results showed that the southerly air mass passing through the polluted areas accounted for 14% of the total back trajectories in 2015, which contributed to approximately 60% in the other years. During the control period in 2015, there were six new particle formation (NPF) events observed, with a higher frequency, but a lower formation rate and growth rate than the same period in 2010–2013. The comparison of the condensation sink (CS), sulfuric acid, solar radiation and relative humidity among the different years indicated that at Shangdianzi station, the first factor in determining the NPF occurrence was the CS, and the second factor could be the concentration level of precursor vapors participating in the NPF event (e.g., sulfuric acid). [Display omitted] •Emission control strategies were conducted during V-Day parade in 2015.•PM1 mass concentration was significantly reduced during V-Day parade.•Higher NPF event frequency in 2015 and 2008 than that in 2010–2013.•Lower J3–10 and GR in 2015 and 2008 than that in 2010–2013•CS and sulfuric acid were the main factors determining the NPF occurrence.