Modeling the distribution of pollutants caused by gas refinery flares with AERMOD software (South Pars Gas Complex Company)

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 M.Sc. student in Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Civil and Earth Resources Engineering, Central Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran

2 Assistant Professor, Department of Environmental Engineering and Food industry, Faculty of Civil and Earth Resources Engineering, Central Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran

3 Assistant Professor, Department of Petroleum, Mining and Materials Engineering, Faculty of Civil Engineering and Land Resources, Central Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran

Abstract

The burning of gases in torches in oil and refinery areas is a significant source of air pollution, releasing harmful pollutants into the atmosphere. This study focused on the 9th refinery of the South Pars Gas Complex in the Assaluyeh region as a case study to understand the distribution and impact of pollutants caused by combustion processes and refinery industry flares. The researchers collected air pollutant and flare emission data, weather information, and physical stack and flare information to model the distribution of pollutants using the AERMOD software. The study found that carbon monoxide emissions were higher than the standard range in autumn and winter of 2020 and summer of 2021, while NO2 emissions were lower than the standard range, and SO2 emissions were higher than the standard range across all seasons. The highest concentration of pollutants was observed in the refinery range and to the south and west of the refinery, leading to the sea, which could affect the ecosystem. The study highlights the importance of having sufficient data and database models to provide effective analysis and management strategies to control and reduce the effects of air pollutants. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into the distribution and impact of pollutants caused by combustion processes and refinery industry flares, which can inform future management strategies to mitigate the harmful effects of air pollution.

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References

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Environmental Resources Research
Volume 11, Issue 1
July 2023
Pages 55-76

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