Chemical Dispersion and Consequence Analysis (CD/CA) Workshop

Sunday, 9 March 2008, 12:30 - 5:30

This training course presents basic principles and subsequent applications associated with the assessment of consequences resulting from an accidental release of hazardous chemicals.  The training begins with presentations to introduce the participants to the fundamental elements of CD/CA.  These are:

1) source term characterization,
2) atmospheric transport and dispersion analysis, and
3) human health effects assessment. 

The course material on source term characterization covers various gas and liquid phase release mechanisms and addresses the complex phenomenology that influences the variable non-linear rate at which the hazardous material is released as a puff or plume to the environment.  Basic principles of two-phase flow and choked flow discharges, as well as liquid pool heat transfer and evaporation, are among the topics to be discussed in conjunction with characterizing the chemical source term. 

The atmospheric transport and dispersion analysis element discusses the complex interactions of the puff or plume of airborne hazardous material with the atmosphere in the flow stabilization, near-field, and far-field regions.  Fundamental principles of atmospheric dispersion modeling, including plume buoyancy, dense/heavy gas effects, deposition, effects of temporal and spatial variations of the wind field, and application of meteorological data are among the topics that are discussed. 

The consequences segment focuses on the application of Emergency Response Planning Guidelines (ERPGs) and its surrogate Temporary Emergency Exposure Limits (TEELs), as indicators to establish inhalation exposure impacts of individuals from environmental release of specific hazardous chemicals.


Trainers:  Carl Mazzola and Steve Vigeant