Application of circuit model for Taipei city PM10 simulation

Abstract

This study simulated PM10 concentrations in Taipei City from September 1990 to June 1992, by using a circuit model developed by Tsuang and Chao. Simulation results demonstrated that the scheme performs better than a box model. The correlation coefficient between observed and predicted values was 0.61 with a standard error of 60 mu g m(-3). The mean treatment score of successful predictions of high PM10 concentrations (exceeding 125 mu g m(-3)) was 58%. Fine particulates were found to be the major contributor toward hazardous air quality, under a stable, low wind speed and rainless atmosphere. In addition, the ill-mixed factor was found to be zero. The circuit model is close to a box model equation under an unstable atmosphere where the mixing height is much higher than the surface layer. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.