Holistic model for atmospheric corrosion Part 4 – Geographic information system for predicting airborne salinity

Abstract

This paper is the fourth in a series of five papers addressing the factors controlling and predicting marine aerosol concentrations on land. It outlines the procedures used to develop a geographic information system (GIS) model of airborne salinity across Australia. The basic mathematical formulae have been presented previously, and this paper outlines how these formulae are applied in a GIS system. While the basic formulae are based on models of the processes controlling the formation and distribution of marine aerosols, some constants have been determined empirically. These constants are established by regression analysis using data derived and presented previously from a long range study of atmospheric salinity levels in a transect across the Australian State of South Australia. The model was then tested with databases of airborne salinity measurements throughout Australia and was shown to possess a high level of accuracy. It was then used to predict the salinity across Australia, with a salinity map of Australia being produced. A number of features of the map are discussed. Lastly, the model is used to illustrate the role of coastal forms in controlling salinity in adjacent regions.