Atmospheric Dispersions Modelling in Nuclear Safety

Abstract

Generally speaking, atmospheric dispersion calculations are used in the nuclear safety context either as part of risk assessment, including the field of probabilistic safety assessment (PSA), or for emergency response. Here, the fundamental principles underlying atmospheric transport are discussed along with a review of the modelling techniques used for each of the above applications. This is followed by a consideration of future trends in dispersion modelling in both the PSA and emergency response fields, including some discussion of the impact of Chernobyl. There will clearly be much model development in the coming years, some of it influenced by Chernobyl. Nevertheless, the impact of Chernobyl should be seen in the context of a large world-wide research effort, much of which was in place prior to the accident and based on already identified sources of uncertainty.