What is an air quality sensor?
An air quality sensor is a device that detects and monitors pollutants in the air. It also checks different environmental factors. It usually measures several air quality indicators. These include particulate matter (PM2.5, PM10) and gases like carbon dioxide (CO2) and carbon monoxide (CO). It also measures ozone (O3), formaldehyde, and benzene. Additionally, it looks at factors like temperature and humidity. These sensors play a crucial role in devices like air purifiers and ventilation systems to ensure cleaner air.
What do air quality sensors measure?
Air quality sensors can assess a wide range of parameters such as:
– **Particulate matter**: PM1, PM2.5, PM10
– **Gases**: Ozone (O3), Carbon monoxide (CO), Carbon dioxide (CO2), Methane (CH4), Formaldehyde (HCHO), Total Volatile Organic Compounds (TVOC)
– **Environmental factors**: Temperature, Humidity, Ultraviolet (UV) intensity, Illumination levels
How do air quality sensors work?
Air quality sensors work by using physical or chemical methods. They use optical, electrical, and thermal techniques to measure gas levels and particles in the air.
– **Detection methods**:
– The laser scattering principle determines particulate matter concentrations (like PM2.5 and PM10).
– The non-dispersive infrared technology (NDIR) measures CO2 levels.
– We use electrochemical sensors to detect ozone or other specific gases.
Once you set up the device in a specific area, it collects pollution data. Then, it sends this data to a processor. The system then converts the processed data into visual formats like charts or numerical indicators, enabling users to easily evaluate air quality conditions.
Types of air quality sensors
Air quality sensors are divided based on purpose and functionality. We can group them into single-function sensors that concentrate on one specific parameter or multi-functional sensors. Multi-functional sensors can monitor several indicators at the same time. Furthermore, we classify them into two main environments of use: **indoor** and **outdoor** air quality sensors.
Examples of air quality sensors include:
Multifunctional air quality sensors
– AQI sensors
– Air quality monitors
– PM2.5 and PM10 sensors
– Gas measurement devices such as single or multi-gas detectors
Depending on user needs or specific applications, these devices provide tailored solutions for home use, industrial scenarios, environmental studies, or automated system integration. Various models are available from manufacturers like Renke, offering comprehensive options for all types of environments.
**Indoor Air Quality Sensors**
1. Compact Air Quality Sensor for Home Use
This air quality sensor is a standard device for indoor air monitoring. It is capable of measuring PM2.5, VOCs, and formaldehyde (HCHO) while determining the Air Quality Index (AQI). With its small and portable design, the device fits perfectly on a table or nightstand. It’s easy to operate: just press the button once to turn it on, and press it several times to cycle through the readings. The clear display ensures convenient access to data. Its simplicity, affordability, and utility make it popular, selling well on platforms like Amazon.
2. Workshop-oriented PM Air Quality Sensing Device
This PM air quality sensor is made for workshops and industrial settings. It measures particulate matter like PM1.0, PM2.5, and PM10. Mount it on the wall and cover it with a waterproof and dustproof shell. This makes it resistant to moisture and airborne particles like smoke or dust. The surface filter blocks water vapor and debris but lets PM particles through, ensuring reliable data collection.
3. Versatile Air Quality Sensor for Building Applications
This versatile gas sensor boasts a round shape with a diameter measuring 168mm. We connect it via a snap-in base which we can install on walls or ceilings. Built from durable ABS material, its compact design makes it versatile for various installations and environments.
The sensor is very advanced. It can measure many environmental factors. These include CO2, temperature, humidity, PM2.5, PM10, and atmospheric pressure. It can also detect and measure the quantity of various substances, including light, total volatile organic compounds (TVOC), formaldehyde, ozone (O₃), carbon monoxide (CO), methane (CH₄), oxygen (O₂), sulfur dioxide (SO₂), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), hydrogen (H₂), hydrogen sulfide (H₂S), ammonia (NH₃), and more.
This wide range of detection capabilities makes it suitable for comprehensive monitoring in public spaces.
Although it has powerful functionality, the lack of a display restricts the ability to access data directly on the device. As a result, users have to depend on external systems to check the readings.
4. Composite Air Quality Sensor for Offices
An enhanced version of the multifunctional air quality sensor, this composite model combines advanced features with user-friendly additions. It monitors temperature, humidity, PM2.5, PM10, and atmospheric pressure. It also tracks light levels, TVOC, CO2, and formaldehyde. Additionally, it measures O3, CO, CH4, O2, SO2, NO2, H2, H2S, NH3, and more. The device has a 4.3-inch LCD touchscreen for easy access and manual settings adjustment.
**Enhanced Features**
A particularly remarkable feature is its real-time alert system. When the concentration of any detected gas exceeds the safe thresholds, the monitor immediately turns red. Moreover, it promptly sends out notifications through email, text messages, or phone calls, enabling users to take swift action. The sensor enables continuous round-the-clock online monitoring of various indicators. This not only helps maintain a healthier indoor air environment but also plays a part in enhancing the overall air quality of urban areas.
**Outdoor Air Quality Sensor**
1. Multi-Gas Solar Radiation Shield
The multi-gas air quality sensor integrates several gas sensors within a solar radiation shield, enabling the detection of a wide range of substances such as TVOC, CH2O, O3, oxygen, H2S, methane, carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), hydrogen (H2), ammonia, and other environmental elements. An internal microprocessor processes the collected data and outputs it as an RS485 signal, enabling users to view it in real time. The solar radiation shield ensures the device’s durability and reliable performance outdoors due to its excellent waterproof and dustproof properties.
2. Dust Monitoring Equipment
The dust monitoring system differs from single-sensor devices. It is a comprehensive setup that comprises a monitoring unit, a data processing unit, a data transmission unit, a display unit, and a video character overlay unit.It combines hardware and software components:
– **Hardware**: Includes sensors and controllers that collect environmental data for upload.
– **Software**: Features a visualization platform to oversee data on-site 24/7.
**Application Areas**
Dust monitoring systems are especially well-fitted for buildings and construction areas. They can measure various air quality parameters such as PM2.5, PM10, noise levels, wind speed, wind direction, wind force, atmospheric pressure, temperature, humidity, and total suspended particulate matter (TSP), among others. We can display the data locally via LED screens or access it remotely through PC or app-based platforms. Although the installation and deployment of these systems are more intricate than that of a single sensor, their extended lifespan and wide-ranging functionality render them extremely valuable.
Advantages of Air Quality Sensors
**1. Promotes Health**
The primary benefit of air quality sensors is fostering a safer living environment. They provide real-time indoor air monitoring and can prompt you to improve ventilation when necessary. Additionally, they supply outdoor air quality information prior to leaving home, enabling you to take appropriate precautions.
**2. Multi-Functionality**
Modern air quality sensors offer diverse monitoring options, allowing users to track specific air indicators or a combination thereof. Manufacturers frequently provide customization services to adapt the sensor’s functionality to specific environments or needs.
**3. Ease of Use**
Most air quality sensors are user-friendly. Indoor models typically require simple activation and connection to mobile or computer devices. Industrial-grade sensors work by wiring together equipment situated in various locations and linking them to a central monitoring hub. This setup enables comprehensive tracking of multiple points.
**4. Broad Detection Range**
Air quality sensors have evolved beyond merely tracking PM2.5 and PM10 levels. They are now capable of detecting indoor pollutants including formaldehyde and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). At the same time, they can measure more comprehensive environmental indicators such as temperature, humidity, and air pressure.
**5. High Accuracy**
Advancements in technology continually improve the precision of air quality sensors. They can now reliably detect even trace amounts of harmful gases, ensuring enhanced monitoring capabilities over time.