Performance evaluation of low-cost particulate matter sensors

Increased particulate matter (PM) concentration in big cities and agglomerations is one of the main risk factors for the health of the residents. Conventional systems for PM monitoring have significant limitations, especially with respect to the costs for installation and maintenance. The number of these monitor stations is limited but PM concentration changes fast, non-linearly, within wide limits and depends on various factors. The large gradients in air quality, especially in urban areas, are a significant challenge for conventional measurement technologies. In recent years there has been a rapid development of compact, mobile low-cost measurement systems with better spatial coverage than that of traditional air quality systems. The present work is dedicated to the performance evaluation of commercial, off-the-shelf PM sensors. The main error sources in these sensors and the possibilities for their reduction are discussed.

I. Introduction and Motivation

The need to measure basic aerosol parameters has increased dramatically in the last decade. This is due mainly to their harmful effect on the environment and on public health. Legislation requires that particle emissions and ambient levels, workplace particle concentrations and exposure to them are measured to confirm that the defined limits are met and the public is not exposed to harmful concentrations of aerosols.