Air pollution modelling in practice: The advantages and limitations of current models

摘要

This paper describes the effects that inadequatedefinition of the meteorological conditions of the atmosphericboundary layer can have when Pasquill-Gifford models are usedin modelling air pollution. This is highlighted by contrasting theresults of a Pasquill-Gifford model to those achieved by a model,recently developed for the minerals industry by the authors, thatincludes recent improvements in the theory of the physics ofdispersion. In addition, the problems introduced by the nature ofthe process of dispersion itself are also discussed: these haveeffects on the practical application of all air pollution models,not just Gaussian plume models. Principle amongst these is theeffect of inherent uncertainty in the process of dispersion thatresults from its turbulent nature. Finally, there is a briefdescription of the practical considerations that should beaccounted for when conducting an air pollution monitoringcampaign in conjunction with modelling.