The Portable In Situ Wind Erosion Laboratory (PI-SWERL): A new method to measure PM10 windblown dust properties and potential for emissions

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

6-1-2007

Publication Title

Atmospheric Environment

Keywords

Emissions inventory, Eolian processes, Fugitive dust, Wind tunnel, Windblown dust

Abstract

A new device-the Portable In Situ Wind ERosion Lab (PI-SWERL)-for measuring the potential for wind erosion and dust emission from soil surfaces is described. The device uses an annular ring (inner diameter=39 cm, outer diameter=51 cm) that rotates 6 cm above the soil test surface. Dust and sand are mobilized by the shear created by the rotating ring. Dust concentrations within the chamber that encloses the annular ring are measured by light scattering, used as a surrogate for particulate matter mass concentrations. While the PI-SWERL does not realistically simulate natural wind erosion processes that are often driven by saltation, measurements with the device provide a robust index of wind erosion/dust emission potential. Compared to traditional field wind tunnels used for the same purpose, the PI-SWERL offers significant economy in size, portability, and ease of use. © 2007 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Volume

41

Issue

18

First Page

3789

Last Page

3796

ISSN

13522310

DOI

10.1016/j.atmosenv.2007.01.018

Link to Full Text

Share

COinS