Satellite imagery used in constructing emission maps for air quality modelling in the Dubai-Sharjah (UAE) region

摘要

Streamlined construction of emissions maps using satellite imagery (JPEG - RGB images) is discussed. A filter algorithm (MATLAB) is used to extract a road network which is subsequently used as an input to a "fast" (reduced-order) urban air shed model for the Dubai-Sharjah (UAE) region. Validation of the model is done using averaged air quality scenarios in an extended (one month) campaign, revealing that O_3 production is VOC limited in mid to late afternoon (peak ozone times). The modelled NO_x and O_3 concentrations are in rough agreement with the three measuring stations used in this study (two in the city center and one at the city periphery); high O_3 levels are predicted down-wind (desert-side) of the Dubai-Sharjah city centers in mid-afternoon.