Atmospheric and Environmental Impacts of Volcanic Particulates

Abstract

V olcanic emissions consist of a mixture of gases, aerosol, and silicate particles, which collectively span seven orders of magnitude in size. Airborne ash and sulfate aerosol in the lower atmosphere has shortlived atmospheric and climatic effects. Volcanic aerosol injected high into the stratosphere impacts atmospheric chemical cycles and the solar and terrestrial radiation budgets, and may infl uence climate over longer timescales than aerosol particles in the lower atmosphere. Once at the surface, the impacts on local environments can be substantial through transport of halogens, trace metals, and metalloids, and subsequent leaching in aqueous solutions. Volcanic emissions may cause disruption to travel and aviation, and may damage surface infrastructure, potentially causing large economic losses.

Determination of time- and height-resolved volcanic ash emissions and their use for quantitative ash dispersion modeling: the 2010 Eyjafjallajökull eruption

“…Improved forecasts would then allow more effective emergency response. For retrospective analysis, more accurate knowledge about the spatial distribution of volcanic emissions in the atmosphere would improve the quantification of their radiative (Robock, 2000) and environmental (Durant et al, 2010) impacts. For instance, improved estimates of ash deposition into the ocean would allow a better quantification of ocean fertilization , which could be relevant especially for the Icelandic Sea which may be iron-limited (Nielsdóttir et al, 2009).…”

Deposition and immersion-mode nucleation of ice by three distinct samples of volcanic ash

“…It is estimated that approximately 9 % of the world's population lives within 100 km of a historically active volcano (Small and Naumann, 2001) and at any moment at least 20 volcanoes around the globe may be erupting (Durant et al, 2010). In these areas, both gaseous and particulate volcanic emissions can affect both human respiratory health (Horwell and Baxter, 2006) and local environments (Witham et al, 2005).…”

“…In these areas, both gaseous and particulate volcanic emissions can affect both human respiratory health (Horwell and Baxter, 2006) and local environments (Witham et al, 2005). Further, explosive volcanic eruptions can greatly influence global climate, even for years after the initial eruption (Durant et al, 2010). For example, the eruption of Mt.…”

Future developments in modelling and monitoring of volcanic ash clouds: outcomes from the first IAVCEI-WMO workshop on Ash Dispersal Forecast and Civil Aviation

“…asthma, silicosis, tuberculosis reactivation and lung cancer), crop pollution and water contamination (e.g. Baxter 1999;Durant et al 2010). Ash continues to be a hazard long after an eruption due to resuspension by winds and possible generation of lahars (e.g.…”