Using low-cost sensors to measure PM2.5 pollution in the urban environment

The aim of this research is to estimate and measure personal exposure to PM2.5 suspended particles as well as the intensity of exposure to it in urban open space by low-cost personal monitors during the day. In this research, in order to measure the concentration of PM2.5 suspended particles in the urban environment, the low-cost AirBeam2 sensor was used, which is the first time in the country. Measurements were taken in three different areas of Tehran, approximately during two weeks (7th to 20th of July) in the summer of 1400, during three days only on weekdays, in sunny weather during three different time periods: morning (7-8 am), noon (10-10). 11 pm) and night (7-8 pm) has been done. Studies have shown that the greater the traffic volume of vehicles and cars, the greater the concentration of PM2.5. Based on the results of this research, the implementation of construction operations and construction projects has a great effect on increasing the emission of suspended particles and increases its concentration volume, so that when located in these areas, the concentration volume of PM2.5 suspended particles is 33 times the average concentration of suspended particles. That area was measured and this increase for PM10 is also 50 times the average concentration of ambient suspended particles. Also, the concentration of suspended particles in different areas of Tehran is different according to various uses and variables such as residential, commercial, open space. The highest concentration of suspended particles is related to the commercial area with hi