Exploring the Formation of Novel Organic Compounds in Urban Atmosphere

Exploring the Formation of Novel Organic Compounds in Urban Atmosphere

It has been reported that the atmosphere surrounding Shanghai and other eastern Asian cities contain a surprisingly large amount of formaldehyde and other carbonyl compounds as well as amines, which are the byproducts of industrial sources. In theory, formaldehyde can react with primary or secondary amines and these additional carbonyl compounds containing acidic protons to form novel organic compounds, such as organic salts, through a process known as a Mannich reaction. In this research project, different types of Mannich reactions were performed in the lab by using several organic precursor compounds, some readily found in the atmosphere in Shanghai, to determine if the anticipated Mannich-type products will form. These reactions were performed under various conditions and the products were analyzed by a Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometer. Preliminary results are reported in this presentation.