Graduate Abstract

Patrick Sawyer
Spring 2007

Atmospheric Dispersion Model Validation for Low Wind Speed Conditions

by

Patrick Sawyer

A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment
of the requirements for the

Master of Science Degree in Environmental Science

Department of Environmental Studies
Greenspun College of Urban Affairs

Graduate College
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Spring 2005

Advisor: Dr Vernon Hodge, Examination Committee Chair
Professor of Chemistry
University of Nevada, Las Vegas

ABSTRACT

Atmospheric plume dispersion models are used for a variety of purposes including emergency planning and response to hazardous material releases, determining force protection actions in the event of a WMD attack and for locating sources of pollution. This paper provides a review of previous studies that examine the accuracy of atmospheric plume dispersion model for chemical releases. It considers the principles used to derive air dispersion plume models and looks at three specific models currently in use;ALHOA, EPIcode and SCIPUFF. Results from this study indicate over-prediction bias by the EPIcode and SCIPUFF models and under-prediction bias by the ALOHA model. The experiment parameters were for near field dispersion, (less than 100 meters), in low wind speed conditions,( less than 2 meters per second).