A new atmospheric particulate removal strategy involving inertial separators

The problem of pollution has plagued Turin for many years, too many according to citizens. Its geographical location, the high density of vehicles (the highest in Italy, according to ACI) and the meteorological characteristics of that territory make the phenomenon difficult to manage by the relevant authorities. In the meantime, people continue to get sick, despite the legal decrees issued by the government to try to reduce atmospheric particulate matter. Some associations are constantly working to try to mitigate the problem (ARPA Piemonte, 5t) and have provided support by sending us sensitive data, with the consent of the City of Turin. This study looked only at PM10 and PM2.5, solid and liquid particles (resulting mainly from combustion) with aerodynamic diameters less than 10 and 2.5 micrometers, respectively. After calculating the particulate matter emitted each day, with two different methods (using Copert Software or 5t-MATO data), this thesis work sought to evaluate the effects that congestion at traffic lights has at peak hours, taking one of the critical intersections present in Turin (Rondò Rivella) and analyzing its daily impact. Following that, assumptions were developed, and the potential effects of one or more inertial separators nearby were assessed. The ranges of daily removal rates turn out to be 9-55\% and 3-18\% for primary PM10 and PM2.5 from vehicular traffic, respectively; of 7-47\% and 2-14\% for the same, respectively, considering the total particulate matter released into Turin each day (according to the assumptions of ARPA Piemonte and ACI).