Air Quality Impact of Aircraft at 10 USAF Bases.
Abstract
The contributions of Air Force aircraft to ambient air quality at 10 major bases were predicted from operational data using a computerized Gaussian dispersion technique. Annual arithmetic mean concentrations are presented for common air pollutants. The predictions are well below National Ambient Air Quality Standards for those pollutants with standards specified as annual averages. Hourly worst case predictions were converted to Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) values. Aircraft sources produced average PSI values of 4.9 for nitrogen dioxide, 2.1 carbon monoxide, 1.9 for total suspended particulates, and 1.4 for sulfur dioxide. The PSI scale ranges from 0 to 500 with 100 designated as the level above which health effects may occur. A PSI for hydrocarbons could not be computed since direct health effects have not been observed and indirect effects through oxidant formation could not be predicted within the scope of this analysis. The relative significance of pollutants emitted by AF aircraft indicated by this report is (from most significant to least significant): hydrocarbons, oxides, or nitrogen, particulate matter, carbon monoxide, and sulfur oxides. This ordering can be used as a guide to future engine design priorities and control strategy development.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1977
- Accession Number
- ADA045464
Entities
People
- Bradford C. Grems Iii.
- Dennis F. Naugle
- Peter S. Daley