Promoting the design of future urban metro systems to improve air pollution: Based on metal element pollution in Chinese metro system

Li, Chunhui; Bai, Li; Wang, Han; Li, Zhenhai

doi:10.1016/j.scs.2023.104753

Cited by 10 publications

(1 citation statement)

References 97 publications

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“…Within urban areas and cities, the transport system assumes a central role in the production of particulate matter (PM) emissions, responsible for 20-40% of the total pollutant and environmental emissions (e.g., [1][2][3][4][5]). To mitigate this negative incidence, urban planners emphasize the promotion of sustainable transport policies (e.g., [6][7][8][9][10]), such as the development of high-quality underground metro systems or the retrofitting of the traditional ones (e.g., [3,[11][12][13]). Metro systems, which utilize an electrical power supply and move a high number of passengers/day, represent an effective solution to curbing greenhouse gas emissions.…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Rain-Based Train Washing: A Sustainable Approach to Reduce PM Concentrations in Underground Environments

Cartenì,

Cascetta,

Falanga

et al. 2024

Sustainability

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Fine particle concentrations measured in many underground rail systems around the world consistently exceed those observed at ground level, potentially posing significant implications for human health. While numerous authors have observed these high particle concentrations and analyzed both their atomic compositions and health impacts, few have investigated devices and technologies capable of reducing these high levels in underground environments. In light of these considerations and recognizing the multifaceted challenges associated with maintaining air quality in underground metro systems, the aim of this paper was to evaluate the usefulness and effectiveness of utilizing rainwater for washing trains to abate particulate matter (PM) concentrations in underground rail systems. To achieve this aim, an ad hoc case study was considered: the Naples Metro Line 1 (Italy), which is characterized by 4.5 km in the ground level and 13.5 km underground. A measurement campaign was carried out during storms of strong intensity through PM measuring instruments placed on station platforms along the metro line. Precisely, the trains were washed by the rain in the initial ground level section, and then continued wet within the underground one. The results of this measurement campaign were compared with those of a comparable survey carried out during average clear weather conditions, and the results showed that the train washing produces a significant PM10 concentration reduction of up to about 60% in the underground environment. If confirmed in other experimental settings, these results could lay the groundwork for the introduction of structured washing system devices (e.g., periodically washing trains and/or tunnels) for the reduction of PM concentration in underground metro systems. The present study sought to contribute valuable insights towards sustainable and environmentally conscious approaches to addressing air quality concerns, particularly by harnessing the natural resource of rainwater during specific meteorological events.

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