Air quality modelling, simulation, and computational methods: a review

Abstract

The objective of this paper is to provide a comprehensive theoretical review with regard to history, existing approaches, recent developments, major research, associated computational methods, and applications of air quality models. A wide range of topics is covered, focusing on sources of air pollution, primary and secondary pollutants, atmospheric chemistry, atmospheric chemical transport models, computer programs for dispersion modelling, online and offline air quality modelling, data assimilation, parallel computing, applications of geographic information system in air quality modelling, air quality index, as well as the use of satellite and remote sensing data in air quality modelling. Each of these elements is comprehensively discussed, covered, and reviewed with respect to various literature and methods related to air quality modelling and applications. Several major commercial and noncommercial dispersion packages are extensively reviewed and detailed advantages and limitations of their applications are highlighted. The paper includes several comparison summaries among various models used in air quality study. Furthermore, the paper provides useful web sites, where readers can obtain further information regarding air quality models and (or) software. Lastly, current generation of air quality models and future directions are also discussed. This paper may serve as a compendium for scientists who work in air quality modelling field. Some topics are generally treated; therefore, the paper may also be used as a reference source by many scientists working with air quality modelling.