Testing of low-cost sensors within the framework of the 7B subproject of the Multidisciplinary National Laboratory for Climate Change

Abstract

In this study we evaluated the performance of a low-cost sensor developed to measure the particulate matter (PM2.5) concentrations in ambient air. The sensor is equipped to simultaneously monitor several meteorological parameters, including temperature, relative humidity, dew point, and air pollutants such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and nitrogen oxides (NOx). These additional variables provide valuable context for understanding the conditions that influence air quality. The core of the sensor system is a Sensirion measurement module, which offers real-time data acquisition with a compact, energy-efficient design suitable for both stationary and mobile applications. Our assembled sensor unit was tested against established reference systems, including the TSI DustTrak and HungAIRy monitoring network. The results demonstrated a strong correlation (R² >0.9) between the Sensirion-based unit and these high-precision instruments across varying environmental conditions and PM2.5 concentration levels. The sensor’s accuracy and reliability make it an effective tool for widespread, low-cost air quality monitoring.