Modeling a Hypothetical Chlorine Release on a College Campus

The release of a harmful contaminant into a densely populated area could quickly affect significant numbers of people. The results of a physical modeling study of the atmospheric transport and dispersion of a hypothetical chlorine release are presented as a case study for situational awareness and preparedness planning. Both a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) model and a rapid response model are used to illustrate different modeling aspects in an effort to aid development of emergency response preparedness for a worst-case scenario event. The accuracy of the two approaches and an analysis of the maximum possible impact of the release on the nearby population are assessed. The two models are compared and contrasted with a primary difference resulting from the ensemble average approach of the rapid response model versus the specific realization produced by the CFD model.