Technical criteria in the selection of low-cost sensors for PM2.5 monitoring. Urban hot climate zone: Cúcuta case
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.61799/2216-0388.2096Keywords:
Air pollution, PM2,5, Low Cost Sensor, Air Quality Monitoring System, USEPAAbstract
Low-cost sensors for the measurement of particulate matter smaller than 2.5 micrometers (PM2.5) are tools that, due to the technological advancements of the last decade, ease of operation, affordability, and accessibility, are increasingly being used to complement the measurements recorded by Air Quality Monitoring Systems in Colombia and worldwide, provided that they comply with the guidelines established by the United States Environmental Protection Agency . A fundamental aspect of the use of these sensors is their proper selection. Therefore, the established technical parameters must be considered. However, there is a gap in the sensor selection process, as there is no weighting or prioritization of these parameters to guide decision-making. The objective of this research was to select low-cost sensors for PM2.5 measurement based on the technical criteria specified in international guidelines. The methodology consisted of identifying sensor models that employ the same measurement principle as reference-grade monitoring stations. Through an extensive literature review of scientific publications, 22 commercial sensor models were identified. A comparative analysis of the technical characteristics of each sensor was then conducted, resulting in the selection of two sensor models.The criteria applied for this selection, in order of importance, were as follows: complete technical specifications provided by the manufacturer, relative humidity range, temperature conditions of the study area, accuracy, cost, measurement certifications, and ease of acquisition within the territory. Upon completion of this process, it was concluded that applying the prioritized criteria in the proposed order leads to the identification of low-cost sensors that adequately meet local territorial requirements for the measurement of this pollutant.
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