A breakthrough in computer modelling could significantly improve how scientists track toxic airborne particles, aiding efforts to reduce air pollution and protect public health.
Researchers from the Universities of Edinburgh and Warwick have developed a method to simulate the behaviour of nanoparticles—microscopic pollutants found in exhaust fumes and wildfire smoke—up to 4,000 times faster than existing techniques.
The work, published in the Journal of Computational Physics, was supported by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC).
Using the UK’s ARCHER2 supercomputer, the team devised a new mathematical approach to calculating drag force—the key factor that determines how particles move through air.
The method allows scientists to zoom in much closer to particles without simulating vast volumes of surrounding air, drastically reducing computational time without sacrificing accuracy.
“Airborne particles in the nanoscale range are some of the most harmful to human health – but also the hardest to model,” said Dr Giorgos Tatsios, lead author from the University of Edinburgh.
“Our method allows us to simulate their behaviour in complex flows far more efficiently, which is crucial for understanding where they go and how to mitigate their effects.”
Beyond improving air pollution models, the research could aid in designing cleaner technologies, advanced air quality sensors and even medical nanoparticles for targeted drug delivery.
“This approach could unlock new levels of accuracy in modelling how toxic particles move through the air – from city streets to human lungs,” added Prof Duncan Lockerby from the University of Warwick.
Copyright © 2025 Energy Live News LtdELN