Measurement of atmospheric NO2 concentrations in Antarctica with NO2 filter badge and tube.

Nitrogen dioxide (NO 2 ) levels in Antarctica were monitored to determine background levels and distribution profile. The NO 2 levels were higher than those reported from tropical remote areas. The NO 2 concentrations gradually increased proceeding from the edge of the continent to the polar region, suggesting global pollutant transportation. To avoid artificial contamination of the data, a sled was used because motor vehicles discharge high levels of NO 2 . NO 2 tubes and filter badges were selected as monitoring devices because of their convenience of transportation in Antarctica. They are small in size, light and easy-to-handle, and usually employed in personal NO 2 exposure measurements. Because of severe Antarctica climate, the devices needed to be protected from the bitter cold. For that purpose, we designed an insulation container to shield the devices. The fixed NO 2 monitoring site was Patriot Hill, located on the coast of the Weddell Sea. We also measured NO 2 concentration along the expedition route from the fixed site to the South Pole, along with the 80 degrees west longitude. The survey periods were during November 1992 and January 1993. NO 2 concentrations in Antarctica ranged from 1.0 to 2.8 ppb, which were relatively higher than previously reported background concentrations. The NO 2 concentrations increased when nearing to the South Pole, supporting the theory that atmospheric circulation converges in the polar regions. This indicated that air pollutants discharged in populated regions were widely spread to isolated areas, like the South Pole.