Evaluation and modeling of airborne dust pollution in the Kamchik railway tunnel during train movements

This paper presents the results of a study on airborne dust pollution in the Kamchik Railway Tunnel caused by train movements. Field measurements were carried out to determine the concentrations of suspended particulate matter (PM 10 , PM 2.5 , PM 1 ), as well as air temperature, pressure, and humidity in different sections of the tunnel – near the portals and in its central part. It was established that during train passages, the level of dust concentration increases by 6-10 times compared to background values, exceeding sanitary and hygienic standards. The main sources of dust generation were identified as frictional interactions between wheels and rails, braking processes, and the transportation of bulk materials. To reduce dust concentrations, engineering solutions are proposed, including the implementation of automatic water-based dust suppression systems, enhanced tunnel ventilation, and the use of hydrophobic surface coatings. The obtained results can be used to optimize ventilation modes and improve the operational safety of the Kamchik Railway Tunnel.