An Adaptive Grid Algorithm for Air-Quality Modeling

A new dynamic adaptive grid algorithm has been developed for use in air-quality modeling. This algorithm uses a higher order numerical scheme—the piecewise parabolic method (PPM)—for computing advective solution fields, a weight function capable of promoting grid node clustering by moving grid nodes, and a conservative interpolation equation using PPM for redistributing the solution field after movement of grid nodes. Applications of the algorithm to model problems show that the algorithm provides solutions more accurate than those obtained with static grids. Performance achieved in model problem simulations indicates that the algorithm has the potential to provide accurate air-quality modeling solutions at costs that may be significantly less than those incurred in obtaining equivalent static grid solutions.