Introduction to the Korea Cloud Physics Experimental Chamber (K-CPEC)

Abstract

Clouds play a crucial role in Earth’s atmospheric system, influencing weather, climate, and the global water cycle. To better understand fundamental but complex cloud processes, specialized facilities such as cloud chambers are essential for conducting detailed research. In response to this need, the Korea Cloud Physics Experimental Chamber (K-CPEC) was recently constructed. The K-CPEC is a comprehensive facility that incorporates a cloud chamber, an aerosol chamber, a wind tunnel, and various subsidiary systems. This enables a wide range of experiments, such as the generation of diverse aerosols—including those from flare combustion—and their application in cloud formation studies. At its core lies a state-of-the-art cloud chamber, a double-structured, expansion-type chamber with adjustable wall temperature. It features an inner chamber with a volume of approximately 22 m3. The pressure of the inner chamber can be precisely controlled between 30 and 1013 hPa, while its temperature can range from −70° to +60°C. These capabilities allow for the replication and investigation of a variety of cloud types and atmospheric conditions. Extensive preliminary experiments have demonstrated that K-CPEC effectively simulates known atmospheric phenomena such as cloud droplet activation and homogeneous/heterogeneous freezing. Its versatility makes it well suited for various research fields, including cloud microphysics, weather modification, and atmospheric environmental studies. Supported by continued investment from the Korea Meteorological Administration, K-CPEC is poised for fundamental and more refined experimental studies. K-CPEC invites collaboration and participation from the international cloud physics community, recognizing that progress in cloud physics research requires collective efforts from researchers worldwide.