Hydrogen sulphide emissions and dispersion modelling from a wastewater reservoir using flux chamber measurements and AERMOD® simulations

• Published in: Atmospheric environment (1994) 2020-03, Vol.224, p.117263, Article 117263
• Main Authors: Moreno-Silva, C., Calvo, D.C., Torres, N., Ayala, L., Gaitán, M., González, L., Rincón, P., Susa, M. Rodríguez
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: AERMOD; Dispersion; Flux chamber; Hydrogen sulphide
• ISSN: 1352-2310; 1873-2844
• DOI: 10.1016/j.atmosenv.2020.117263

Odours associated with hydrogen sulphide (H2S) have been a concern in the municipality of Sibaté (Colombia) over the last decades. With the aim of determining the odour impact of Muña's reservoir, different H2S emission sources were evaluated and simulated. H2S surface emission rates from Muña's reservoir were estimated using the Flux Chamber experimental method. Meteorological conditions and emission rates were then fed to the AERMOD® model to identify the contribution of Muña's reservoir on H2S concentration in Sibaté’s urban area. These results were compared and calibrated with real time H2S atmospheric concentration data. The average H2S emission rate was 1,886 μg/(min·m2), which primarily affects the municipality when wind direction is towards the south. The results of this study demonstrated the applicability of the AERMOD® model and flux chamber measurements in predicting H2S behaviour in the Sibaté region. •The average H2S emission rate from Muña reservoir is 1,886 μg/(min·m2).•Critical conditions could lead to 4 ppm H2S atmospheric concentration in urban areas.•AERMOD® model predicts H2S behaviour in a reservoir-surrounding region.•Wind direction is most relevant variable in H2S atmospheric concentration.