Air Quality Data Live from Sensor + Test, Nuremberg
Machine Learning (ML) boosts performance of low-cost air quality sensors
The Praxis/Urban has now passed all MCERTS tests in line with the certification for Indicative Ambient Particulate Monitors standard and it is anticipated the Praxis/OPCube will follow shortly.
This has been achieved after three years of collocation projects with reference instruments around the world, in order to collect training data for the development of the company’s unique sensor correction algorithm.
What does MCERTS mean for customers?
The certification process measures the performance of the device according to MCERTS indicative standard for particulate monitoring, so customers can be confident that data output is traceable to UK and European standards.
Significantly, in order to reduce cost and complexity of Praxis air quality monitors, their award winning design* removes any need to condition the air prior to sampling. The certification will have been achieved without a heater tube, resulting in a lightweight device (at only 4kg and 2kg for Praxis/OPCube) making them very easy to handle and deploy.
The company is now awaiting the final sign off from the certification authority.
Validating the accuracy of air quality monitoring data
Because no mandatory industry-wide product regulation or testing exists for air quality monitoring it is difficult for customers to verify claims made by manufacturers about low-cost air quality technology, which is still relatively new. Achieving MCERTS certification provides independent verification of device performance, giving assurance to customers about the data quality they can expect.
As well as submitting its instruments for PM evaluation with the UK’s Environmental Agency to achieve the MCERTS standard, South Coast Science also plans to submit devices to the US for AQMD evaluation to support distribution within the US market.
To find out more about South Coast Science devices and how you can use them for air quality monitoring projects please visit our products page or contact David Johnson.
* Best Gas & Particulate Matter Measurement Solution 2021, British Made Awards for Praxis/OPCube
Featured photo by troy mortier on Unsplash
