Lidar observations of the density and behavior of the Labadie Power Plant plume

Abstract

As part of the Project MISTT (Midwest Interstate Sulfur Transformation and Transport), the SRI mobile Mark IX lidar system was used to derive information on the paniculate density distribution and behavior of the Labadie Power Plant plume, near St. Louis, MO., at distances up to 130 km downwind from the plant site. Digital data recording, processing, and TV-type display techniques were used to provide realtime information on the location and structure of the paniculate plume. Subsequent digital analyses have provided estimates of plume density, distributions, and other important plume parameters. Data examples illustrate the unique capability of a mobile lidar system for: Tracking plumes to long downwind distances during stable nighttime conditions. Observing plume cross-sectional structure by scanning in elevation with a stationary lidar. Observing changes in plume characteristics during the transition from stable nighttime conditions to unstable daytime conditions by operating a vertically pointing lidar along a cross-plume mobile route. Deriving cross-plume mass concentrations by using available information on particle size distribution and background aerosol mass concentration.