Dommeltunnel Eindhoven
Challenge:
The “Dommel tunnel project” is a collaboration arrangement between the Eindhoven municipal authorities, HMVT, Oranjewoud and SRE. They have joined forces to improve the quality of the air in the city. In this project, the Dommel tunnel will be used to test the Corona air purifying system, developed by the Eindhoven University of Technology.
The test started on 04-04-11 and lasted until 22-04-2011. In this period, tests in the Dommel tunnel were performed for the clean-up of exhaust fumes. Extra exhaust fumes were released in the tunnel for a realistic comparison with a tunnel for motorised traffic. These fumes constitute no health hazard, but they produce a smell that simulates the smell inside a parking garage.
Solution:
Corona air purification technology
In essence, Corona purifies the air by creating very small lightning strikes. Polluted air blown through these lightning strikes will be cleaned up. Click here for more information on this technology (link to wiki-Corona)
Future
Cleaning polluted air is only an option if the air is trapped, like in tunnels. The HD Tunnel Concept was developed by HMVT in association with Oranjewoud. It means that so-called hot spots, busy traffic intersections, are covered with plastic screens to collect the polluted air. The air is channelled to the Corona and is released as clean air.
Results:
Health
In order to prevent health problems, we have asked an expert to have a look at possible health risks the users of the Dommel tunnel could be exposed to. Fortunately, the test turned out that there were no detrimental effects on the health of the tunnel users.
Read the report written by the health authorities for detailed information (link to PDF). At major intersections and busy connecting roads, the quality of the air is often worse than deemed acceptable in accordance with the standard for outside air. We believe that reducing the amount of traffic is not feasible, and this would also have a detrimental impact on the economy. But what is the alternative?
Until recently, there was no technology available for cleaning these air currents. HMVT and Oranjewoud have developed a solution for this problem in association with the Eindhoven University of Technology. Most of the exhaust fumes consist of nitric oxides and particulate matter. After collecting and cleaning, the air will sufficiently comply with the set standards for a better environment nearby.
During the operations, HMVT has kept a log with a frequent update about the progress and the preliminary test results.
In June, the Dommel tunnel in Eindhoven will be temporarily used as a test location for an air purification technique cleaning exhaust fumes - Pulsed Corona Plasma - developed by the Eindhoven University of Technology. The test period in the tunnel will run from 14 until 30 June.
Background information
The “Dommel tunnel” project emerged from the desire to create a cleaner living environment for all. Work is now well underway, thanks to a collaboration arrangement between SRE, the Eindhoven municipal authorities, the province of Noord Brabant, the "Better Access for South-East Brabant" organisation, Hannover Milieu- en Veiligheidstechniek B.V., and the Eindhoven University of Technology. They have joined forces to improve the quality of the air in the Eindhoven region. During this project, the Dommel tunnel will be used for testing the “Pulsed Corona air purification system”.
In mid-June, the tunnel will be used as a test location for three weeks. The Dommel tunnel has the right size for a test on a small scale to simulate a lifelike road tunnel. Extra exhaust fumes will be released in the tunnel for a realistic comparison with a tunnel for motorised traffic. During the test, a green sea container will be put behind the fencing near the tunnel entrance. Ventilating ducts will be entering the tunnel on the pedestrian side against the wall. The ducts will be used to extract air and to blow the extra exhaust fumes into the tunnel. These fumes constitute no health hazard, but they produce a smell that simulates the smell inside a parking garage. During the test period, the tunnel will remain open for the public. We will do our best to minimise any discomfort this may cause.
The technique
The Pulsed Corona air purification technique has been developed by the Eindhoven University of Technology. The technique makes use of mini lightning strikes generated in a steel casing. After directing the polluted air through this casing, it will come out at the other end as clean air. However, cleaning polluted traffic air can be effective only after the air has been trapped, like inside a tunnel or a parking garage.
Application
Increased traffic in urban areas is often at the expense of the quality of the air. At major intersections and busy connecting roads, the quality of the air is often worse than deemed acceptable in accordance with the standard for outside air. One of the solutions is putting a roof over the traffic flow. Various parties have already made drawing board submissions for this concept.
Risks
For a better understanding of the possible risks of this test, we asked the health authorities to have a look at the possible health risks the Dommel tunnel users may be exposed to. They concluded as follows: the test is unlikely to cause any (additional) health problems to the tunnel users. Click here to read the full report written by the health authorities.
F.A.Q.
• When will the test be held?
Answer: From 14 to 30 June.
• Can I keep using the tunnel?
Answer: Yes. The tunnel will remain open for those who wish to make use of it.
• Will it cause any harm to my respiratory system?
Answer: During the test period, users may notice a stronger smell of exhaust fumes inside the tunnel. Compare this with the smell inside parking garages. In the brief period of time the tunnel users will be exposed, the exhaust fumes will have no harmful effects on their breathing.
• What is the purpose of the test?
Answer: To confirm whether we have found a solution for air pollution caused by motorised traffic.
• Will more of such tests be held in the future?
Answer: For now, there are no other plans for tests to be held in the Dommel tunnel.
• Where can I find more information about the air quality in the city of Eindhoven?
Answer: For more information, go to the web site of the Eindhoven city council.