Comparison of AERMOD and WindTrax dispersion models in determining PM ₁₀ emission rates from a beef cattle feedlot

Abstract

This work compared the PM10 emission rates determined from a large commercial cattle feedlot in Kansas by reverse dispersion modeling using AERMOD and WindTrax. Emission fluxes derived from AERMOD were greater than those from WindTrax by mean factors of 1.3 to 1.6. Based on the high linearity observed between the two models, emission fluxes derived from one dispersion model for the purpose of simulating dispersion could be applied to the other model using appropriate conversion factors.