Can air quality gas sensors be used for emission monitoring of small-scale local air pollution sources? Pilot test evaluation

Abstract

In recent years we have seen a growing number of applications that use various sensory measurements of physicochemical features. Within the research project “Research on the identification of combustion of unsuitable fuels and systems of self-diagnostics of boilers combustion solid fuels for domestic heating”, the authors tested and evaluated the possible use of an air quality monitoring sensor unit for the measurement of operating parameters of solid fuel burning boilers and stoves. In the Czech Republic, programs to support citizens in the replacement of domestic boilers of poor combustion quality have been subsidized for several years. Unfortunately, no assessment of the impact of subsidies on air quality has been carried out. However, the increased pollutant emissions due to improper use of domestic boilers are supposed to be one of the greatest problems with domestic boilers. Hence, providing users with real-time feedback may lead to changes in combustion conditions and consequently to a reduction in air pollution. We focus on sensory measurements of CO, CO2 , NO, and VOCs as compounds that correspond to the operating conditions of the combustion process. The research included sampling, construction of the flue gas dilution duct, and the influence of direct measurement on the service life of the sensors.