Evaluation of dispersion models DIPCOT and RIMPUFF used in Decision Support Systems for nuclear and radiological emergency response

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Date
2010-06-01
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
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Publisher
HARMO
Abstract
This paper presents evaluation of the atmospheric dispersion models DIPCOT and RIMPUFF which are incorporated for operational use in Decision Support Systems for nuclear emergencies. The evaluation is performed through comparisons of model results with real-scale measurements of gamma radiation dose rates in air obtained during the routine operation of the HIFAR Research Reactor located in Sydney, Australia. The area surrounding the reactor is characterized by moderately complicated topography and varying land cover. A total of 16 days have been computationally simulated, covering all atmospheric stability conditions. Qualitative and quantitative model evaluation is carried out, using comparisons of paired in space and time calculated and measured gamma dose rates, statistical indices, scatter plots, and contour plots. The models performance is satisfactory for a number of cases, while for others the performance is poor. This can be attributed to a number of factors, mainly uncertainties in the prediction of meteorological conditions.
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Keywords
Atmospherics, Dispersions, Gamma radiation, Dose rates, Radiation doses, Complex terrain, Accidents, HIFAR Reactor, New South Wales, Australia
Citation
Andronopoulos, S, Dyer, L. L., Davakis, E., & Bartzis, J. G. (2010). Evaluation of dispersion models DIPCOT and RIMPUFF used in Decision support systems for nuclear and radiological emergency response. Paper presented at HARMO13 - 1-4 June 2010, Paris, France, 13th Conference on Harmonisation within Atmospheric Disperson Modelling for Regulatory Purposes.