In this study, a commercial computational fluid dynamics (CFD) code, CFX-5.5, was utilized to assess flow field characteristics, and to simulate tritium gas releases and subsequent transport in a storage room in the tritium handling facility at Los Alamos. This study was done with mesh refinement and results compared. The results show a complex, ventilation-induced flow field with vortices, velocity gradients, and stagnant air pockets. This paper also explains the time-dependent gas dispersion results. The numerical analysis method used in this study provides important information that is possible to be validated with an experimental technique of aerosol tracer measurement method frequently used at Los Alamos. Application of CFD can have a favorable impact on the design of ventilation systems and worker safety with consideration to facility costs.

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