A novel, cost-effective analytical method for measuring high-resolution vertical profiles of stratospheric trace gases using a gas chromatograph coupled with an electron capture detector

Abstract. The radiative balance of the upper atmosphere is dependent on magnitude and distribution greenhouse gases aerosols in that region. Climate models predict with increasing surface temperature, primary mechanism for transporting tropospheric air into stratosphere (known as Brewer–Dobson circulation) will strengthen, leading to changes atmospheric water vapor, other gases, aerosols. Stratospheric relationships between long-lived trace various photochemical properties (such N2O, SF6, chlorofluorocarbons) provide a strong constraint tracking stratospheric circulation. Therefore, cost-effective approach needed monitor these stratosphere. In past decade, balloon-borne AirCore sampler developed at NOAA's Global Monitoring Laboratory has been routinely used mole fractions CO2, CH4, CO from ground approximately 25 km above mean sea level. Our recent development work adapted gas chromatograph coupled an electron capture detector (GC-ECD) measure suite (N2O, CFC-11, CFC-12, H-1211, CFC-113) portion AirCores. This instrument, called StratoCore-GC-ECD, allows us retrieve vertical profiles molecules high resolution (5–7 hPa per measurement). We launched four flights analyzed samples gases. results showed consistent expected tracer–tracer good agreement aircraft campaign measurements. demonstrates StratoCore-GC-ECD system provides low-cost robust measuring key evaluating