How to measure particulate matter in air?
Airborne particulate matter refers to tiny solid or liquid particles suspended in the air, usually including dust, pollen, bacteria, viruses, mold, etc. These particulate matter have important impacts on human health and the environment, so measuring the amount of particulate matter in the air is critical for assessing air quality. The following will introduce How to measure particulate matter in air?
Air Quality Index (AQI):
The air quality index is calculated based on the concentration of different particulate matter in the air (such as PM2.5 and PM10, etc.). It is a comprehensive index used to describe air quality conditions and is often used to guide the public to take appropriate health protection measures.
Governments or environmental protection agencies usually provide real-time AQI data for public inquiry. These data are calculated based on the concentration of different pollutants in the air, and are indicated by color grades or numbers to help people quickly understand the status of air quality. Lower AQI values indicate cleaner air, while higher values indicate poorer air quality.
Particulate matter monitoring equipment:
1.Suspended particulate matter (PM) monitoring instrument:
PM2.5 monitoring instrument: used to measure the concentration of particulate matter with a diameter of less than or equal to 2.5 microns.
PM10 monitoring instrument: used to measure the concentration of particulate matter with a diameter of less than or equal to 10 microns.
2.Sampler:
The sampler can be used to collect particulate matter in the air, and then determine the composition and concentration of the particulate matter through chemical analysis and other methods.
Indoor particulate matter monitoring:
In addition to outdoor air quality monitoring, indoor particulate matter monitoring is also very important. Indoor particulate matter comes from indoor decoration, furniture, combustion equipment, etc., and has a huge impact on our health.
Indoor particulate matter monitoring can use portable particulate matter monitors or specific indoor air quality monitoring instruments. These instruments measure particulate matter concentrations indoors and provide real-time data. By monitoring the concentration of indoor particulate matter, we can understand the status of indoor air quality and take timely measures, such as ventilation, purifiers, etc., to improve the indoor environment.
Monitoring by professional organizations:
Some professional organizations such as the environmental protection department will establish air quality monitoring stations to monitor the concentration of pollutants such as particulate matter in the air, and issue air quality reports based on the monitoring results.
Precautions:
When using particulate matter monitoring instruments, instructions for use should be followed to ensure accurate measurements.
Monitoring instruments are regularly maintained and calibrated to ensure the accuracy and reliability of measurement results.
In environments with high concentrations of particulate matter pollution, appropriate protective measures should be taken, such as wearing masks.
In general, the above methods can more accurately measure the concentration of particulate matter in the air, which helps to assess air quality conditions and take corresponding protective measures to protect human health and the environment.