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

Abstract

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 O3 production is VOC limited in mid to late afternoon (peak ozone times). The modelled NOx and O3 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 O3 levels are predicted down-wind (desert-side) of the Dubai-Sharjah city centers in mid-afternoon. © 2007 WIT Press.