Researchers from Texas A&M University, including Arnold Vedlitz, Director and
Distinguished Research Scholar at the Institute for Science, Technology and Public
Policy (ISTPP), have published a paper in Science reporting on a breakthrough finding
that identifies an atmospheric chemical process by which new ultra-fine organic
particles continue to form in the atmosphere during heat waves. The extreme heat
during heat waves can create conditions that promote new particle formation near the
ground. The article, titled “Detecting supramolecular organic nanoparticles during heat
wave,” reports evidence that these particles can form even when temperatures
approach 104F. Many air-quality and climate models assume new particle formation
slows under very hot conditions.

Vedlitz says this scientific discovery about new risks pathways raises policy questions
about how to reduce risks during extreme heat. He noted that emissions policy should
focus not only on how much VOC is emitted, but when and where. For example, by
altering VOC emissions in hotter seasons. “There are many ways to do this, such as
regulatory changes that tighten VOC emissions or limit operations based on air
temperature. Another way is through stronger collaboration among local air permitting
authorities and business and industry, since they are major sources of VOCs.” For
example, the might collaborate on methods for reducing emissions most suitable to
local environments and operational needs. Perhaps some local industries and
businesses can adjust operational time of day or duration. Urban planners could
account for this new knowledge through land use designs that moderate VOC hot spots.
It also means that the heat-wave particle-formation pathway needs to be included in
climate and air-quality models used for regulatory and planning decisions.

From a public health perspective, the findings support considering these ultra-fine
particles as an added concern during extreme heat events. Communities may
incorporate air-particle information into heat-health warning systems, updating health
guidance and worker protections, and prioritizing protections for vulnerable groups like
outdoor workers, children, older adults, and communities near major VOC sources.

Publication: Renyi Zhang et al., Detecting supramolecular organic nanoparticles during
heat wave.Science391,eady5192(2026).DOI:10.1126/science.ady5192Publication