Environmental research

Research projects

CERC undertakes a wide range of research projects broadly covering atmospheric issues and complex flow problems. The projects are varied and have been undertaken for local, national and international organizations.

They include many air quality studies comprising for instance:

• mitigation scenario testing for both pollutant concentrations and emissions;
• source apportionment;
• detailed studies of atmospheric chemical mechanisms and dispersion in street canyons;
• scientific model evaluation methodologies;
• development of the understanding and parameterizations of boundary layer flows essential for improved dispersion modelling including effects of complex topography, generation of coastal jets and marine boundary layer structure.

If you would like to discuss a research project with us, then please contact us and our highly experienced development team will be pleased to help.

Software development

One of CERC's principle functions is to make use of new developments in environmental research to develop practical but scientifically advanced environmental software.

Since its inception CERC, sometimes with sponsorship from industrial companies and UK government departments, has produced a number of models which tackle such issues as air dispersion, both planned and emergency releases, air quality management, flow over complex terrain and atmospheric emission data compilation including greenhouse gases.

Customization of standard release versions of our models and the development of new software systems have been undertaken for various clients who require specialised modelling packages.

Our experience covers a variety of applications, from fluid mechanics to database construction. Examples include:

• the development of a model of flow through porous structures (e.g. oil and gas rigs),
• modification of ADMS to calculate temperature and humidity fields in complex areas (e.g. heat stress),
• ADMS-Fire for dispersion and deposition from fires and ADMSSTAR for the assessment of short term accidental releases that are typically radioactive. ADMSSTAR includes an inverse calculation to estimate source strength from air concentration or ground deposition samples.

If you would like to discuss a new software system you would like produced or a customised application of an existing CERC model, then please contact us and our highly experienced development team will be pleased to help.