Low cost sensor network for indoor air quality monitoring in residential houses: Lab and indoor tests of two PM sensors

Abstract

Purpose / Context – The purpose of our work is to investigate: a) the sensor responses of the two different low-cost PM sensors to concrete dust and indoor environment and activities; b) the evalua-tion of the measuring performance of two low-cost PM sensors and their potential application in in-door air quality monitoring. Methodology / Approach – The chamber and indoor tests of Sharp sensor GP2Y1010AU0F (Sharp sensor) and Shinyei sensor PPD42NS (Shinyei sensor) were conducted. Otherwise, the sensor board of Sharp and Shinyei sensors was located in the indoor environment for over 24 h. Results – Lab and indoor tests of the Sharp sensor and Shinyei sensor were conducted and they showed a good agreement with the reference instruments (DustTrak and AirBeam) and respond quickly to the concrete dust concentration change above 50 µg/m3 as well as repond well to cooking activity when locating in the indoor environment. Key Findings / Implications – The Sharp sensor and Shinyei sensor were all able to detect PM2.5 in the chamber test and indoor environment. However their ability to monitoring PM concentration in ambient concentrations (around 10~20 µg/m3) still need further validation and improvement. Originality –The collected data of indoor air quality and environmental parameters will also be a reference to adjust the HVAC system and energy use based on individual’s behaviour. The lab and indoor tests of these two PM sensors are the first step to put the low cost sensors into practice.