The Influence of Meteorological Parameters on the Patterns Left by n-CH4 and CO Gases on Concentration Roses Executed as an Environmental Source Determining Technique

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Al-Salem, S.

Affiliations: Petroleum Research and Studies Center, Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, P.O. Box 24885, Safat 13109, State of Kuwait

Abstract: Levels of normal methane (n-CH_4) and carbon monoxide (CO) have been increasing in the atmosphere for the past three decades. In this communication, two urban areas in the state of Kuwait (Fahaheel and Al-Riqa) were monitored for a two-year period (2004-2005). Concentration rose plotting was used to determine the major air pollution sources around both areas. A filtration procedure on the data secured was carried out. It was noticed that certain meteorological parameters, mainly wind speed had a significant influence on the shape and pattern of the concentration rose altering its shape and gas dispensing behaviour. A Chemical Mass Balance (CMB) model around the two receptor points of the areas under investigation was established to determine the major air pollution sources contributing to the ambient air load of both areas. It was determined based on chemical fingerprints of the sources that Kuwait's three refineries belt contributed 70% on Fahaheel, while 70% was associated with Fahaheel highway in the case of Al-Riqa.

Keywords: n-CH[TeX:] _4, CO, Al-Riqa, CMB, Fahaheel, Kuwait

Journal: Asian Journal of Water, Environment and Pollution, vol. 5, no. 4, pp. 31-41, 2008