3D High-Resolution Modeling of Aircraft-Induced NO Emission Dispersion in CAEPport Configuration Using Landing and...

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Atmospheric Chemistry
• Aviation Engineering

Background:

• Aircraft operations significantly degrade air quality around airports, posing challenges to environmental standards.
• Accurate monitoring and prediction of airport air pollution require advanced decision-making tools.
• International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) sets emission standards for gaseous and particulate pollutants.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate an innovative methodology for modeling the microscale spatial and temporal evolution of aircraft emissions.
• To enhance the accuracy of airport air pollution monitoring and prediction.
• To assess the impact of atmospheric stability on pollutant concentrations.

Main Methods:

• 3D high-resolution Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations were performed using the CAEPport configuration.
• The model domain extended 8 km around a medium-size mock airport with 1m spatial resolution near buildings.
• Nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions from main engines and auxiliary power units (APUs) were tracked during landing and takeoff (LTO) cycles.

Main Results:

• NO2 concentrations were higher in apron areas due to APU use during parking, while NO dominated near runways due to high engine power.
• Stable atmospheric conditions led to increased NO and NO2 concentrations compared to neutral and unstable conditions.
• APU emissions significantly contributed to elevated NO and NO2 levels, particularly NO2 in terminal areas.

Conclusions:

• The developed methodology accurately models microscale aircraft emissions and their impact on local air quality.
• Understanding emission dynamics under different atmospheric conditions is crucial for effective airport pollution management.
• APU usage is a significant factor in terminal area air quality, necessitating targeted mitigation strategies.