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UNIVERSITY OF BUCHAREST
FACULTY OF PHYSICS Guest
2025-08-21 0:35 |
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Conference: Bucharest University Faculty of Physics 2025 Meeting
Section: Atmosphere and Earth Science; Environment Protection
Title:
Assessment of Ground-Level Methane Concentrations in the Urban Area of Bucharest in August 2024 Using a Mobile Laboratory
Authors:
Alexandru-Silviu TUDOR (1,2)
Alin SCARLAT (1,2)
Gabriela IORGA (3,1)
*
Affiliation:
1) University of Bucharest, Faculty of Physics, P.O.Box MG-11, 077125 Bucharest-Magurele, Romania
2) National Institute for Aerospace Research ‘Elie Carafoli’ INCAS, Environmental Aerodynamics, Bd. Iuliu Maniu 220, 061126, Bucharest, Romania
3) University of Bucharest, Faculty of Chemistry, Bd. Regina Elisabeta 4-12, 030018 Bucharest, Romania
E-mail
t_alex_s@yahoo.com
Keywords:
methane, mobile laboratory, Bucharest
Abstract:
Methane (CH₄) is a potent greenhouse gas, with a significant impact on urban air quality and climate change. This study presents an extensive ground-level measurement campaign of atmospheric methane concentrations conducted in Bucharest, Romania, during August 2024, with the aim to create a detailed map of methane distribution. A mobile laboratory equipped with various gas analyzers was used. The Bucharest area was divided into three sectors—northwest, northeast, and south—each. Over 1500 km were covered along predefined routes during a total of four times: once at night and three times during the day over three consecutive days. This data collection protocol ensured statistical coverage and enabled the observation of temporal and spatial variations in methane concentrations. The results presented as grid-based maps revealed significant diurnal and spatial variations. During the day, higher concentrations were observed, likely associated with anthropogenic sources such as road traffic (vehicle fleet in Bucharest uses various fuels) and industrial activities. At night, methane distribution was more uniform, indicating relatively constant background emissions and a reduced influence of local activities. This study provides valuable insights into methane variations in the urban environment of Bucharest and serves as a reference point for future monitoring efforts. The findings also highlight the necessity of continuous monitoring of methane concentrations to support air quality management strategies and climate change adaptation effort.
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