Researchers at MIT are using the SPIN to study how different types of aerosols act as nuclei for the ice crystals. These crystals govern the formation of high-altitude clouds like the cirrus clouds shown at right. Click the button below for an MIT article on that research.
Article
The SPIN’s chamber design follows the parallel-plate geometry developed by Stetzer and the engineering team at the ETH-Zurich. Details are given in Chou et al, "Ice nuclei properties within a Saharan dust event at the Jungfraujoch in the Swiss Alps" (Atmos. Chem. Phys. 11, 4725-4738, 2011; pdf link). The parallel-plate design provides easy and uniform cooling. A compact refrigeration system cools the plates directly, eliminating the need for external cooling baths and heat exchange fluids.
The SPIN consists of the following components:
Parameter | Specification |
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Measured Parameters | Single-particle light scattering (both normal and polarized light) |
Derived Parameters |
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Size Range of activated particles | 0.5 – 15 µm |
Particle Residence Time in Chamber | 10 -12 seconds |
Chamber Design | Parallel-plate geometry |
Refrigeration |
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Particle Residence Time in Chamber | 10 -12 seconds |
Computer Capabilities |
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Dimensions | Self-contained in a single rack, 59 cm wide x 73 cm deep x 167 cm high |
Power Requirements | 220 VAC, 50/60 Hz, 3000 W or 28 VDC, 3000 W |
Specifications are subject to change without notice.