Numerical modeling of the distribution of PM2.5 from vehicle emissions in the ambient air of Kutaisi in winter during strong westerly background winds

Abstract

The integration of 3D nonlinear non-stationary equations of mesometeorological processes and dispersion of dispersed sorbent in the atmosphere has been investigated spatial distribution and temporal change of PM2.5 emitted into the atmosphere of c. Kutaisi as a result of vehicle traffic during winter with strong background westerly winds. The vertical distribution of atmospheric concentration in the ground layer has been studied for different moments of time along a highways, in central city streets, industrial, rural areas and uninhabited areas. The ranges of concentration changes at these points have been determined. Images of horizontal concentration distributions in the atmospheric boundary layer at heights of 2, 100, and 600 m above the ground surface were obtained. Highly polluted and relatively less polluted zones have been identified. It has been shown that the maximum concentration of PM2.5 emitted by motor vehicles reaches 10 μg/m3 and is obtained in the immediate vicinity of the highway. In addition, in the case of strong winds, the maximum level of air pollution is approximately 25 and 4-5 μg/m3 lower than the levels obtained during calm and medium-strength winds, respectively.