The harmonization of gas dispersion modelling for industrial applications:a few thoughts for the future

The Gas Dispersion Modelling Harmonization Initiative has been successful i n highlighting significant differences between models for quantifying the d ispersion of gaseous emissions. Possible areas for developing the initiativ e further are detailed in this paper. The key issues raised are: a) The need for a definitive set of full-scale experiments to quantify disp ersion from stacks with heights in the range 10-70 m. Particular emphasis s hould be directed towards unstable atmospheric conditions, since these caus e the highest ground-level concentrations. b) The need to define criteria to judge whether or not a dispersion model i s acceptable. c) The importance of the choice of source conditions and emission rate mode lling on gas dispersion predictions. d) The need to champion the development of new models to cover a wider rang e of practical gas dispersion applications.