How to measure, identify, and locate fine particles, including PM1, PM2.5, and PM10, indoors?
Fine particles (PM1, PM2.5, PM10) indoors pose a major health risk, especially in sensitive environments such as hospitals or offices. These particles, which can come from various sources such as ventilation, electronic equipment, building materials, or cleaning activities, can penetrate deep into the lungs and negatively impact respiratory and cardiovascular health.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends strict exposure thresholds:
- PM2.5: ≤ 5 µg/m³ (annual average exposure)
- PM10: ≤ 15 µg/m³ (annual average exposure)
- PM1: No specific WHO recommendation, but high concentrations can be concerning.
The POD2 by Ellona measures these particles in real time using optical sensors. These sensors project a light beam, and when fine particles pass through, they scatter the light. The amount of scattered light determines the particle concentration: more scattering means a higher concentration. This technology enables precise detection of particles from PM0.3 to PM10.
But the analysis doesn’t stop there: Ellona goes further by identifying the nature and source of the particles through artificial intelligence algorithms. These algorithms analyze particle characteristics and behavior in the air, identifying pollution sources and whether particles originate from industrial activities, household dust, or ventilation systems. This enables not just monitoring but also targeted air quality improvements.
The data collected by the optical sensors is sent to EllonaSoft, which centralizes and analyzes information in real time. This platform offers dynamic visualization, detailed tracking of fine particle concentrations, and helps adjust air quality management strategies. It also identifies exposure areas and tracks particle trends.
In summary, thanks to high-precision optical sensors and advanced AI algorithms, the POD2 by Ellona provides a comprehensive indoor air quality monitoring solution. It not only detects and quantifies fine particles but also identifies their nature and origin, enabling proactive health risk management and ensuring occupant protection.