Sofia: An Integrated Computational Model For Air Quality.

Abstract

This paper presents a numerical model for predicting air pollutant concentrations in
a 3D geo-referenced framework. The model (SofIA = Software de Impacto Atmosférico) is
based on a Gaussian dispersion criterion. A wide range of sources arising from a typical
urban study area are included in it, i.e. mobile sources, residential and commercial emissions,
open burning, dust resuspension and stack releases. As output, the model gives the
concentration fields for the considered pollutants, and both short-term and long-term
exposures.
In order to show the model capabilities, the simulation of the air quality in a megacity is
presented. Model calibration and validation procedures are discussed. Although the available
database to feed the model is reduced both in quality and quantity, a relatively good
agreement between measurements and predicted concentrations is found. In this way, it is
shown that the model is able to represent the main characteristics of the local air quality.
The impacts of potential mitigation measures on the local air quality are also presented,
including long-term NOx and PM10. Predictions for the period 2000-2012 are presented.
Finally, some recommendations about model improvement are discussed.