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Atmospheric halocarbons: A discussion with emphasis on chloroform
Author(s) -
Yung Yuk Ling,
McElroy Michael B.,
Wofsy Steven C.
Publication year - 1975
Publication title -
geophysical research letters
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.007
H-Index - 273
eISSN - 1944-8007
pISSN - 0094-8276
DOI - 10.1029/gl002i009p00397
Subject(s) - methyl iodide , chloroform , iodide , environmental chemistry , environmental science , chlorine , bromide , atmosphere (unit) , chloride , decomposition , industrial production , chemistry , meteorology , organic chemistry , physics , keynesian economics , economics
Bleaching of paper pulp represents a major industrial use of chlorine and could provide an environmentally significant source of atmospheric halocarbons. The related global production of chloroform is estimated at 3 × 10 5 ton yr −1 and there could be additional production associated with atmospheric decomposition of perchloroethylene. Estimates are given for the production of methyl chloride, methyl bromide and methyl iodide, 5.2 × 10 6 , 7.7 × 10 4 , and 7.4 × 10 5 ton yr −1 respectively. The relative yields of CH 3 Cl, CH 3 Br and CH 3 I are consistent with the hypothesis of a marine biological source for these compounds. Concentrations of other halocarbons observed in the atmosphere appear to indicate industrial sources.