Parallel Lidar and In-Situ Study of the Aerosol Particles Mass Concentration, Shape and Character in Highly Polluted Zones in Sofia City

In this study, a LIDAR was used to outline characteristic zones in Sofia City of increased concentration of aerosol pollutants and to determine the related aerosol extinction coefficient. In-situ probing was conducted as well of the corresponding aerosol ensembles, which allowed us to estimate gravimetrically the aerosol extinction-to-mass concentration calibration constant. Samples of aerosol scatterers were also visualized by electron microscopy. The results obtained provided reasonable values of the calibration constant. The images obtained revealed micro-particles seeming to be of mineral-dust, soot or even microbe type. A further chemical and microbiological analysis of the aerosol particles is forthcoming.