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Project Code [2002-PHD2-1]

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Project title

Validation of air pollution dispersion modelling for the road transport sector under Irish conditions

Primary Funding Agency

Environmental Protection Agency

Co-Funding Organisation(s)

n/a

Lead Organisation

University of Dublin, Trinity College (TCD)

Lead Applicant

Brian Broderick

Project Abstract

Atmospheric dispersion model accuracy is dependent not only on the quality of the data used but also on the methodology of the model and its user. The air pollution models CALINE4 and the DMRB are commonly used in Ireland to evaluate the impact of road traffic emissions. However both models were developed outside Ireland and have not been validated for use in Irish conditions. The objective of this work was to validate the use of the models for road traffic emissions in Ireland. The models were assessed using one year of air quality data collected at two sites; the free-flowing M4 motorway at Leixlip and a periodically congested roundabout on the N6 at Galway. DMRB predictions were predominantly influenced by background concentrations at the motorway site and overestimated the measured concentrations in both cases. CALINE4 model predictions of CO concentrations were generally within i?50% of measured concentrations though under stable atmospheric conditions and when wind speeds are low significant discrepancies may arise. The scarcity of traffic meteorological and background concentration data was found to be the major difficulty in modelling for the assessment of the environmental impact of Irish road schemes.

Grant Approved

�31,787.30

Research Hub

Healthy Environment

Research Theme

Environment and Human Health

Start Date

01/11/2002

Initial Projected Completion Date

n/a