Analysis of the emission of SO₂, NO_x, and suspended particles from the thermal power plants Kostolac (Serbia)

ABSTRACT

The environmental situation related to the thermal power basin of Kostolac for the most part represents the result of the influence of the thermal power plants (TPPs) of Kostolac A, Kostolac B, and the open-pit lignite mine. The quality of air is monitored by continuously measuring concentrations of the overall precipitation matters and gases such as CO₂, SO₂, NO_x, CO, and O₃. Values significantly exceeding the legal limits have been found for pollutants in the surroundings of the TPPs Kostolac A and B and in the direction of dominant winds. The paper analyzes the impact of different scenarios of emission of harmful matters from the blocks of TPPs Kostolac A and B on the quality of air in this part of Serbia. The Gaussian model has been used to evaluate dispersion of gas substances and suspended particulates as well as parameters related to the surroundings. Calculations have been made relating to ground-level concentrations of sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxide, and suspended particles at varying distances from the emission source.

KEYWORDS:

• environment
• the basin of Kostolac
• air pollution
• Gaussian model
• Screen View 3.5.0

Funding

This article was in part supported by the Serbian Ministry of Education, Science and Technological Development (Grants: ON-171039 and TR-34019).

Notes

³ Periodic (annual) measurements lasting several days and related to specific regimes of block operation are performed by the Mining Institute of Belgrade, whereas continuous measurements are performed by the TPP Kostolac.

¹ Climatic elements are processed for the period of 1999–2009.