Class Air pollution and noise

This Course Unit offers a balanced approach to the study of air and noise pollution, two critical vectors of environmental engineering and management. Its scope is divided between atmospheric chemistry (pollutant characterization and chemical reactions) and acoustic physics (the study of sound, vibrations, and propagation). In its field of intervention, the CU focuses on technical monitoring and the application of mitigation strategies based on current legislation. Its relevance is fundamental to providing students with practical skills in controlling gaseous emissions and noise levels, both of which are essential for ensuring quality of life in urban and industrial contexts.

Not applicable

Air Pollution Atmospheric sources and pollutants. Effects of atmospheric pollution. Atmospheric thermodynamic, chemical and photochemical stability. Dynamics of the pollutants in the atmosphere. Monitoring of atmospheric pollutants. Air quality policies. Prevention and control of atmospheric pollution (control measures). Indoor Air Quality (IAQ): sources and pollutants. Factors that affects IAQ and health consequences. Monitoring and control of pollutants in IAQ IAQ management plan. Applicable legislation   Noise Pollution Review on basic principles of sound. Noise: sources and effects in human health Sound measurement equipment Occupational noise Noise control program Evaluation, reduction and control of noise levels Preventive methodological measures Noise assessment methodologies General principles of prevention Ambient Noise Measurement methodologies Acoustic tests associated with the discomfort criterion Noise Maps Plans of Action Applicable legislation.

The CU employs active learning methodologies and an expositive-interactive approach, including seminars and documentary discussions. Continuous assessment comprises: 3 assignments (2 on air pollution: 30%+25%; 1 on noise pollution: 25%) performed individually or in groups, including oral presentation and discussion; and class participation (classwork, attendance, and conduct: 20%). CU approval requires a minimum grade of 9.5 in each component. Students who do not complete the continuous assessment may take a final exam. The teacher reserves the right to conduct oral exams under any circumstances to confirm grades.

Duarte Santos, F. (2021) Alterações Climáticas. Publicações Fundação Francisco Manuel dos Santos. ISBN: 9789899064256. Guedes Vaz, S. (2016) Ambiente em Portugal. Publicações Fundação Francisco Manuel dos Santos. ISBN: 9789898838469. Lage, J. (2016) Environmental Impacto f steelwork emissions: an integrated approach. Delft University of Technology (TU Delft), The Netherlands. PhD Thesis. ISBN/EAN: 9789462954113. Shahiron Shahidan, Nurul Izzati Raihan Ramzi Hannan, Mohamad Zulkhairi Md Maarof (2017) A Comprehensive Review on the Effectiveness of Existing Noise Barriers commonly used in the Railway Industry. MATEC Web of Conferences, 87, 01007. DOI: 10.1051/matecconf/20178701007 Lie, A; Skogstad, M; Johannessen, HA; Tynes, T. (2016) Occupational noise exposure and hearing: a systematic review. 89:351-372. DOI: 10.1007/s00420-015-1083-5 Benz Kotzen, Colin English (2009) Environmental Noise Barriers: A Guide To Their Acoustic and Visual Design, Second Edition