Intermediate Complexity Modelling of Contrail Formation

Abstract

Two main modeling approaches have historically been used to study contrail formation: 0D box models that include detailed microphysics but simplify plume dilution, and 3D simulations (LES or RANS) that capture jet dynamics and turbulence but often simplify ice crystal formation. More recently, hybrid approaches such as multi-0D models have combined microphysical simulations with trajectories derived from 3D simulations, enabling broader parameter studies at lower computational cost. However, these models treat each trajectory independently, neglecting interactions between neighboring plume regions. This work introduces an improved multi-0D method that includes diffusion of ice crystals and water vapor between nearby trajectories, enhancing the robustness of this intermediate-complexity approach.