Comparison of steady state evaporation models for toxic chemical spills

The United States Air Force handles and stores a number of toxic and hazardous chemicals. Associated with this activity is the threat of accidental release. To determine the downwind threat of a spilled liquid chemical, one must estimate the evaporation rate of the spilled chemical. A steady state evaporation model is one that calculates the temperature of the spilled chemical pool based on the net energy input into the pool from all possible sources. The pool temperature is used to calculate the evaporation rate. Three steady state evaporation models are compared, and the most appropriate calculation for each energy input into the pool is identified. A new steady state evaporation model is presented based on the comparisons. Sensitivity studies are presented in support of the new model.