In the heart of Porto, Portugal, a groundbreaking study led by J.P. Sá of the Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy (LEPABE) and the Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering (ALiCE) at the University of Porto is revolutionizing indoor air quality (IAQ) monitoring in schools. By calibrating low-cost sensor (LCS) devices, the research is paving the way for cost-effective and efficient management of indoor air pollution (IAP), a critical concern for public health and energy efficiency.
The study, published in the journal ‘Developments in the Built Environment’ (translated to English as ‘Advances in the Built Environment’), focuses on particulate matter (PM) monitoring in nursery and primary schools. The research team deployed sixteen AirVisual Pro LCS devices and three research-grade DustTrak instruments to collect data from around 130 different samplings across various age groups and room types, both during occupancy and non-occupancy periods.
“Our goal was to empower schools with the tools to monitor and mitigate indoor air pollution effectively,” said lead author J.P. Sá. The team’s innovative approach involved applying a methodology based on local maxima to identify and remove error events, ensuring the accuracy of the data. They then created a merged dataset using 1-minute mean values from both LCS and reference data, which was used to develop calibration models.
The results were striking. A strong linear relationship was observed between the LCS devices and reference data, particularly during non-occupancy periods and for finer PM fractions (PM1 and PM2.5). Pearson’s correlation reached an impressive 0.94 for these fractions, indicating a high degree of accuracy. While PM10 exhibited a slightly weaker correlation, the calibration models, particularly support vector regression (SVR) and gradient boosting regression (GBR), significantly improved the results.
“This study demonstrates that low-cost sensors can be a game-changer in managing indoor air quality in schools,” Sá explained. “By providing accurate and reliable data, these devices enable schools to implement targeted mitigation measures, ultimately creating healthier learning environments.”
The commercial implications for the energy sector are substantial. Effective IAQ management can lead to significant energy savings by optimizing ventilation systems and reducing the need for extensive air purification measures. Moreover, the widespread adoption of low-cost sensors could drive demand for advanced calibration and data analysis services, opening new avenues for businesses in the energy and environmental sectors.
As the world increasingly prioritizes public health and sustainability, the findings of this study offer a promising path forward. By leveraging low-cost sensor technology, schools and other institutions can take proactive steps to monitor and improve indoor air quality, contributing to a healthier and more energy-efficient future. The research not only highlights the potential of LCS devices but also underscores the importance of continuous innovation in the field of environmental monitoring.