Application of a stochastic vehicular wake erosion model to determine PM2.5 exposure

A stochastic model based on empirical probability distribution functions has been applied to estimate human exposure to emissions from the resuspension of road dust due to isolated wakes from moving vehicles. The model incorporates the turbulent nature of resuspension due to vehicular wake erosion phenomena, and is tested by in situ measurements. It statistically estimates exposure as a function of ambient temperature, traffic activity, human height, and breathe intake rates as a function of age and activity. The model is applied to evaluate whether communities in the Molango region in Mexico are affected by vehicular resuspension of Manganese (Mn) contaminated soil from on-road activities related to mining. Results showed that six and 10 year old children are at higher risk to vehicular resuspended dust exposure than adults, due to their lower height and higher respiratory intake rates during periods of light and moderate activity.

► The model estimates exposure to PM2.5 due to resuspension by isolated vehicular wake erosion.
► Estimates intake as a function of individual activity, height, road distance and traffic activity.
► It is applicable to environmental field studies with in situ measurements.
► Explains why children are at higher risk to exposure of road dust.