Derivation of an eddy diffusivity depending on source distance under moderately unstable conditions

Abstract

Accounting for the current knowledge of the Convective Boundary Layer (CBL) structure and characteristics, a new formulation for eddy diffusivities has been derived, to be used in atmospheric dispersion models. Expressions are proposed for eddy diffusivities depending on source distance for inhomogeneous turbulence calculated directly with the Batchelor theory. The classical statistical diffusion theory, the observed spectral properties and the observed characteristics of energy-containing eddies are used to estimate these parameters. In addition, a vertical eddy diffusivity was introduced in an air pollution model and validated with the data of Copenhagen experiments and compared with the results of the obtained from classic formulation of the literature. A statistical evaluation show that, the results of the dispersion model with the K-parameterisation included, produces a good fit of the measured ground-level concentration data in the experimental conditions considered. Furthermore, the current work suggests that wind and eddy diffusivities profiles physically more realistic are important in regions near of an elevated source, and improves the description of the transport process of atmospheric pollutants.