Accident-generated aerosols: assessment methodology. [Review of methods for estimating quantity and characteristics of accident-generated aerosols]

Research underway to develop methods of assessing accidental airborne releases is reviewed. The objective of this study is to develop techniques to make reasonable estimates of the quantity and characteristics of accident-generated aerosols from fires, explosions, tornadoes, and other accidents with potentially serious consequences. Several accident scenarios, which are comprised of a series of several release events are being examined. The mechanisms of these events are being identified. The goal of this work is to estimate the magnitude of energy developed in the accident and mass of particles released. The study has several thrusts which include reviewing literature, performing experiments to develop new data as required, developing models, and finally compiling an accident analysis handbook.