PICTURE: PartICle Transport simulation in URban Environments

Research Project, 2020 – 2022

Purpose and goal: The present research proposal describes a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) approach to predict the transport of particulate matter in urban areas. Urban agglomerations are regions of enhanced emissions of dangerous pollutants into the atmosphere. We will study the dispersion of PM10 and PM2.5 in a stable stratified atmospheric boundary layer The project will provide novel numerical tools that can be applied to predict the transport of PM inside urban agglomerates. Expected results and effects: The objectives of the research project are: -to develop new fluid dynamics models for particulate transport in stable boundary layers; -to investigate particulate transport in prototype urban configurations: isolated building and single street canyon; -to quantify concentrations and residence times of particulate in a real complex urban environment and to predict preferential accumulation regions. We will provide a unique open database that can be used by the relevant stakeholders to formulate new requirements and criteria for new sustainable air quality levels. Approach and implementation: The project consists of two workpackages: -WP1: Development of the numerical tool (Months 1-12) OBJECTIVES: Implementation of a Eulerian-Lagrangian LES solver for particulate transport in the stably stratified boundary layer with complex topography. -WP2: Particulate transport in urban environments (Months 7-24) OBJECTIVES: Investigating particulate transport in simple and complex urban areas.