Assessment of pollutant emissions and modeling their impact on ambient air quality during asphalt concrete pavement production
Abstract
Purpose. To determine the composition and volumes of pollutant emissions generated during asphalt concrete pavement production and to model their dispersion in the ambient air.
Methods. Analytical, computational, experimental, comparative methods, as well as information modeling and forecasting.
Results. The analysis showed that the main emission sources include dosing hoppers, the belt conveyor, the bitumen heating tank, the heat generator, above-ground fuel storage tanks, and the drying unit. Maximum single and total emissions were determined based on instrumental measurements and analytical calculations. It was established that the production process releases suspended particulate matter (not differentiated by composition), saturated hydrocarbons C12–C19, propane, butane, benzene, hydrogen sulfide, carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, and sulfur dioxide. The calculated ground-level concentrations of pollutants, taking background levels into account, do not exceed hygienic standards at the boundary of the sanitary protection zone. However, ground-level concentrations of suspended particulate matter approach their maximum allowable limits. This indicates an increased risk of air quality degradation within the sanitary protection zone and may adversely affect ecosystem health and living conditions for the population. Low-mass yet highly toxic components–benzo[a]pyrene, benzene, and hydrogen sulfide–remain of particular concern. Even at low concentrations, they can exert chronic carcinogenic effects. Their presence reflects the complex chemical and thermal processes underlying emission formation and underscores the need for systematic monitoring of these substances.
Conclusions. Asphalt concrete pavement production exerts a complex impact on ambient air quality, dominated by particulate and organic pollutants. The most critical are the concentrations of suspended particulate matter and saturated hydrocarbons, while low-volume toxic components (benzo[a]pyrene, benzene, hydrogen sulfide) contribute additional long-term risks. The obtained concentration characteristics form the basis for further dispersion modeling, identification of zones of maximum impact, and the development of environmental protection measures.
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