Joint LLC Seminar

Carbonaceous Aerosol Research: How Advanced Light Sources Make a Difference!

With Assistant Professor Cuong Le from Combustion Physics, LU.

Fika-coffee and cake will be served before the meeting, from 15:00.

Abstract:

Carbonaceous aerosol plays a crucial role across environmental, industrial, and cosmic domains. In astrophysics, these particles are fundamental to interstellar dust, affecting light absorption, scattering, and emission processes essential for star formation, planetary evolution, and the cosmic dust cycle. Conversely, carbonaceous aerosol produced from the incomplete combustion of hydrocarbons contributes to global warming and air pollution, underscoring its significant environmental impact.

In laboratory settings, carbonaceous nanoparticles open exciting possibilities in materials science and nanotechnology. Their unique optical properties—including strong light absorption across a broad spectrum, tunable fluorescence, and high scattering capabilities—make them promising candidates for next-generation materials. Traditional techniques like chemical analysis or imaging are effective for deposited samples, but deposition may lead to structural modifications. 

This talk will explore how advanced light sources enable in-depth investigation of carbonaceous aerosols in their native phase, shedding light on their complex properties and formation processes. I will also introduce potential master’s projects for interested attendees.