by John B. Cornwell
Abstract
Over the past decade, several attempts have been made to develop computer models that would provide "real-time" information describing the evolution and travel of toxic or flammable vapor clouds. As with any tool, in this case a computer program, its limitations must be clearly understood if it is to be used effectively. This paper presents an overview of several available models, some of them defined as "emergency response" models. The paper discusses the models' strengths and weaknesses, and presents examples of when the models would be helpful and those times when they would simply make the situation worse. For situations where the available models are not applicable, alternate approaches will be suggested.