Sensor based real time air pollutants monitoring for an urban industrial area

Abstract

Introduction: This study used economical sensors and an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) to examine real-time air pollution assessment for an urban industrial area.

Materials and methods: Using a DJI Phantom 3 Pro, the concentrations in the research area were measured. In the study, Carbon monoxide (CO) and Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) were measured using metal oxide sensors, and Particulate Matter (PM10) was determined using a dust smoke particle sensor. Pollutants were measured at heights of 0.8 m and 10 m for a period of one month.

Results: With an increase in elevation, a gradual drop in pollutant concentration has been seen. High traffic volumes and fuel combustion are to blame for this increase. The concentration of CO, NO2 and PM10 at 0.8 m has been found to be 22.53%, 42.90% and 45.86% respectively higher when compared at 10 m. The main finding of this study is the use of an UAV integrated with sensors for vertical monitoring of the pollutant concentration.

Conclusion: The CO concentration was found to be less than the standard value but near to it, when the data were compared to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) standards. While it was discovered that the measured PM10 concentration was higher than the CPCB standard value, the observed NO2 concentration was determined to be lower than the standard value. Also, given that they produce satisfactory results, low-cost gas sensors can be employed to conduct concentration measurement studies.