An Empirical Theoretical Model for the Turbulent Diffusion Coefficient in Urban Atmospheric Dispersion
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Turbulent diffusion plays a critical role in atmospheric pollutant dispersion, particularly in complex environments such as urban areas. This study proposes a novel theoretical approach to enhance the calculation of the turbulent diffusion coefficient in pollutant dispersion models. We propose a new expression for the turbulent diffusion coefficient (KC), which incorporates both hydrodynamic and turbulence-related time scales. This formulation links the turbulent diffusion coefficient to pollutant travel time and turbulence intensity, offering more accurate predictions of pollutant concentration distributions. By addressing the limitations of existing empirical models, this approach improves the parameterization of turbulence and reduces uncertainties in predicting maximum individual exposure under various atmospheric conditions. The study presents a theoretical model designed to advance the current understanding of atmospheric dispersion modeling. Experimental validation, while recommended, is beyond the scope of this work and is suggested as a direction for future empirical research to confirm the practical utility of the model. This theoretical formulation could be integrated into urban air quality management frameworks, providing improved estimations of pollutant peaks in complex environments.
Source: Urban Science
Author: George Efthimiou
Institution: Centre for Research and Technology Hellas
Language: English
Topic: Wind and Air Flow Studies
Subfield: Environmental Engineering
Field: Environmental Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,930
OpenAlex ID: W4413059449