A Real-Time Approach to Detect PM2.5 in a Seriously Polluted Environment Based on Pressure Drop

Abstract

A differential pressure-based low-cost PM2.5 detection system was developed for particulate matter measurement in polluted environments. The PM2.5 monitor consists of a sampling device, a pump, a pressure sensor, and a control circuit. Two sampling devices including a foam penetration-filter tube and a cyclone-filter holder were applied. Tests were conducted in a haze environment and laboratory particle chambers with varying PM2.5 concentration. The pressure data were related to the PM2.5 concentration recorded by Dusttrak to show the calibration process and the performance of this instrument. Results showed the concentration information given by the instrument was consistent with the actual concentration in the experiment, and this instrument was more suitable for seriously polluted environment detection. Concentration oscillation of the pressure-based PM2.5 monitor caused by turbulent flow could be reduced by a longer calculation interval and data averaging in the calculation process. As a low-cost sensor, the pressure-based PM2.5 monitor still has good performance and application value for detecting high-concentration PM2.5 in atmospheric environments or workplaces.