Analysis of the emission of SO2, NOx, and suspended particles from the thermal power plants Kostolac (Serbia)

Abstract

The environmental situation related to the thermal power basin of Kostolac for the most part represents the result of the influence of the thermal power plants (TPPs) of Kostolac A, Kostolac B, and the open-pit lignite mine. The quality of air is monitored by continuously measuring concentrations of the overall precipitation matters and gases such as CO2, SO2, NOx, CO, and O-3. Values significantly exceeding the legal limits have been found for pollutants in the surroundings of the TPPs Kostolac A and B and in the direction of dominant winds. The paper analyzes the impact of different scenarios of emission of harmful matters from the blocks of TPPs Kostolac A and B on the quality of air in this part of Serbia. The Gaussian model has been used to evaluate dispersion of gas substances and suspended particulates as well as parameters related to the surroundings. Calculations have been made relating to ground-level concentrations of sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxide, and suspended particles at varying distances from the emission source.