Simplified source description for atmospheric dispersion model comparison of the Jack Rabbit II chlorine field experiments

Abstract

Abstract This paper provides a summary of the methods used to quantify the mass release rate and thermodynamic state of the chlorine released during the Jack Rabbit II chlorine field experiments. In the two-year campaign, eight successful field trials were conducted in which chlorine was released in quantities of 5–10 tons (4540–9070\xa0kg) through a 6-inch (0.152\xa0m) circular breach in the test vessel (disseminator) along with an additional 20 ton (18100\xa0kg) release (Trial 9). Previous analysis of load cell data has been conducted to quantify the mass release rate from primary containment as well as video evidence from Trial 6 which was used to quantify the rainout (and subsequent re-evaporation) during that trial. A method was developed to extend this analysis approach to other trials (except Trial 8 which was vertically upward and Trial 9 which was not instrumented with load cells). The objective of this work was to provide a simplified description of the source suitable for comparison of calculations made using different atmospheric transport and dispersion (ATD) models in Trials 1–7. This work also provides an estimate of the momentum flux (and mean velocity) of the release for use by ATD models which would use such information as input. The recommended release rate parameters are presented along with a summary of the relevant assumptions used in the analysis.