Numerical investigation and passive control of dust pollution on a minivan

A dynamic model using a discrete phase approach was developed to study dust pollution on a minivan's side and rear surfaces. Numerical simulations, validated by road tests, analyzed dust concentration and distribution. A significant factor in sidewall dust pollution is the pressure difference inside and outside the wheel cavity, particularly behind the wheel cavity, which affects about 40% of the sidewall. Large trailing vortices at the rear create a low-pressure zone, leading to rear dust pollution characterized by low concentration, large area, and dispersed regions. Aerodynamic devices were proposed to mitigate pollution. Simulations showed that side attachments, such as wheel deflectors, wheel cavity baffle, and mudguards, reduce aerodynamic drag and sidewall dust pollution, with wheel cavity baffles reducing the affected area by about 48.98%. Rear attachments, like diffusers and roof deflector, minimize rear dust pollution, with roof deflector reducing the area by approximately 87.24%. These findings highlight the effectiveness of aerodynamic modifications in controlling dust pollution on a minivan.