Effect of Khoms power station stack emission impact on the ancient city of Leptis Magna, Libya

A study on the impact of emissions from the Khoms power station on Leptis Magna reveals significant concentrations of sulfur oxides and nitrogen oxides on the surfaces of marble columns and statues. These pollutants, resulting from the combustion of heavy fuels, light fuels, and natural gas, contribute to the erosion of ancient structures. The research utilized air dispersion software (DISPER) to model pollution levels under varying climate conditions, providing a quantitative assessment of the chemical reactions accelerating marble degradation. Findings underscore the urgent need for mitigation strategies to protect this archaeological treasure from further deterioration.

Okasha, A., Nasser, D., Abu-Arabia, H., & Elatrash, M. (2022). Effect of Khoms power station stack emission impact on the ancient city of Leptis Magna, Libya. An-Najah University Journal for Research - A (Natural Sciences), 36(1), 109–132. https://doi.org/10.35552/anujr.a.36.1.2006