Aerodynamic analysis of a pollution control technology

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Air pollution from vehicles has been a growing concern to the public for decades. Exposure to particulate matter (PM) can increase the risk for respiratory and cardiovascular illnesses. Residential areas in close proximity to high volume road ways are currently protected by sound barrier walls used to reduce noise from traffic. However, there are currently no air pollution control systems to mitigate traffic air pollution for people living adjacent to high ways. Envision SQ Inc. wants to fill this need and has therefore developed a technology for removing PM from traffic air pollution before it reaches residential areas. The effectiveness of Envision's pollution control device (PCD) significantly depends on the dynamics of the airflow through it. The objective is to develop aerodynamic devices that will keep the airflow inside the PCD in contact with the walls to promote better removal of pollutants and to further optimize the PCT. This will be achieved through extensive computational fluid dynamic (CFD) simulations but using wind tunnel experiments for validation. The project will promote the effectiveness and reliability of the system and enhance its market potential. The industry partner believes this is a necessary step before taking the product to market. The project also has the potential to improve the health of a large number of people living in close proximity to high volume road ways in Canada, especially Ontario. This can in turn lessen the burden on the healthcare budget. Furthermore, the collaboration between industry and academia will provide hands-on opportunities to train and nurture students.