Modification and validation of the Gaussian plume model (GPM) to predict ammonia and particulate matter dispersion

Abstract Estimating the transport of ammonia and particulate matter (PM) from ventilation tunnel fans of poultry houses is needed to develop effective mitigation strategies. However, field measurements are time-consuming and costly. Alternatively, air dispersion models can provide more information under a variety of conditions. Therefore, this study was conducted to modify and to validate the Gaussian plume model to predict poultry house plumes. The most notable modification was the addition of a virtual, emission-releasing point behind the exhaust tunnel fan. The modified model was validated using previously-reported field measurements. The fraction of predictions within a factor of two (FAC2) for both ammonia and PM observations was greatly improved compared with original model. In addition, the model performance was not sensitive to different sampling scenarios. This new model can be applied to other experiments and will be useful in evaluating the effectiveness of mitigation strategies for air pollutant emissions.