Diffusion of Exhaust Gases from Waste-To-Energy Plant: Model and Field Monitoring

Municipal solid waste (MSW) incinerators that generate electricity are one of the most effective solutions for solid waste treatment in urban areas of Vietnam. However, the flue gas exhausted from waste-to-energy (WtE) plants may affect ambient air quality and public health. This study evaluated the emissions from the Soc Son WtE plant in Vietnam during the trial operation period using the AERMOD model and field measurements. Air samples were collected at six locations, 200–2500 m from the plant’s stack, in four different directions to measure total suspended particles (TSP), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), carbon monoxide (CO), and sulfur dioxide (SO2) levels. The concentrations of TSP, NO2, CO, and SO2 extracted from the model were well correlated with those collected from the field measurements, with correlation coefficients above 0.80 for all pollutants. This indicates that the AERMOD model is appropriate for modelling point sources in WtE plants. The concentrations of TSP and gases were highest at a distance of 200–300 m from the plant’s stack, exceeding national and international standards. The diffuse pollution of the gases was mapped with the scenario of the maximum operating capacity of the plant. The assessment of the human health risk using the estimated concentration from the model provided a scientific basis for air quality management and public health. The low health risk of pollutants at a distance of 1000 m from the factory stack indicates that the plant’s exhaust gas treatment system was operating efficiently.