Editor: Albert
In recent years, with increasing number of industries, thermal power plants, and exhaust from vehicles, a hazardous purple warning in air quality is commonly seen on the air quality report from the Environmental Protection Administration (EPA). People are concerned about possible harm caused by smog and fine aerosols (PM2.5).
Instant updates of air quality can help those with allergic reactions see whether it is suitable to go out. For this purpose, we utilize what we learned in the class to develop an air quality monitor.
Materials
GP2Y1010AU0F from Sharp is an optical sensor for measuring air quality. It is often used in air purification systems, designed to detect fine dust particles. The sensor has very low power consumption (maximum 20 mA, typically 11 mA) and can be powered with DC 7V maximum. the analogue sensor output voltage is proportional to the density of dust with a sensitivity of 0.5 V/0.1 mg/m3. An infrared emitting diode and a phototransistor are arranged diagonally into the device to detect light reflected by dust in the air.
LED light
Capacitor 220 uF.
Seven resistance 150 ohms.
Breadboard.
Arduino uno.
Circuit diagram configuration.
Summary
As air pollution is becoming an important health issue, we use the Arduino language learned in class to develop a simple air quality monitor. A few several LED light sources with colors are added to indicate different air quality levels.
When we were building the monitor using Arduino language, we encountered some challenges in using the program and circuit diagram. However, we have also acquired different skills in coding and programming.
