The RESPIRA project addresses the problem of dust emissions generated during the transport, handling and storage of coal and post-mining materials. Depending on atmospheric conditions, fine dust particles may spread beyond mines, stockpiles and material handling areas and reach nearby residential areas. This poses a potential risk to workers, local communities and the environment.
The project aims to improve understanding of the mechanisms responsible for dust generation and dispersion in relation to transport and storage conditions as well as meteorological factors. Field and laboratory investigations will be combined with physicochemical and toxicological analyses of dust samples. These activities will help determine dust properties and assess its potential impact on human health and the environment.
Within the project, a predictive model will be developed to forecast dust concentrations and dispersion based on measurement data, meteorological parameters and information on emission sources. A network of dedicated sensors will also be used for dust monitoring. In parallel, technical and organisational methods for reducing dust emissions will be assessed and developed, with particular attention to fine respirable fractions, including PM2.5.
The integration of field measurements, laboratory investigations and modelling will support the identification of effective methods for reducing dust emissions at their sources. The main project results will include technical dust mitigation solutions, procedures for their evaluation, a predictive model and a catalogue of good practices. These solutions are expected to contribute to improved air quality, greater protection of workers and local communities, and safer management of mining and post-mining areas in the context of the Just Transition.
This project is co-funded by the European Union. This project has received funding from the Research Fund for Coal and Steel (RFCS) under Grant Agreement No. 101296016 – RESPIRA.
