MITIGATION OF PROBLEM CLOUDS

This paper describes the use of fluid curtains for the mitigation of p roblem clouds. Mechanical and physico-chemical actions of spray barrie rs are examined. Practical engineering codes are developed with the su pport of experimental findings gathered on dedicated facilities. It is shown that forced dispersion is more appropriate for the dilution of flammable gases, while the efficient dispersion of a toxic dense pollu tant requires the use of inhibiting liquid curtains. The design rules of these two types of spray curtains exhibit important differences. Me chanical curtains require coarse upward sprays in combination with a s mall upstream fence. Physico-chemical absorbing barriers rely on fine sprays; therefore, additional studies of wind effect are needed. The c oncept of the dual diluting/inhibiting curtain is suggested for future investigation.