Hazmat Liquid Release Following a Tank Truck Accident: Cross-check Modelling and Field Data Validation

In this paper, after discussing QRA uncertainties connected to consequence modeling (release rates, evaporation, and dispersion), we consider an hazardous release of hydrochloric acid due to a loss of containment of a tank truck. Following the source term characterization, we applied widely used integral approaches, providing modeling for the combination of all physical phenomena involved after the release. The applicative phase of this work, representing its main appeal, is the validation of the simulation results against field data sets in the near field, directly collected during emergency response activities. More advanced modeling can be performed by a computational fluid dynamics method (CFD) to solve the Navier-Stokes equations, together with specific model equations. Quantitative conclusions are drawn about the cross-check validation performed. The comparison based on experimental data evidences the ability and limitations of the adopted models in estimating the actual post-release gas behavior, as well as the implications for hazard predictions that support decision makers in emergency planning and response.