Monitoring Qualitative Trends of Air Quality in Northwest Indiana
Faculty Sponsor
Chris Iceman
College
Arts and Sciences
Department/Program
Chemistry
Presentation Type
Poster Presentation
Symposium Date
Summer 7-26-2023
Abstract
In Lake and Porter counties PurpleAir sensors have been deployed in Gary, Chesterton, Valparaiso, and Schererville as part of the North Lake County Environmental Partnership (NLCEP). These sensors provide valuable quantitative data on air quality as part of a community awareness program. Air quality is often overlooked and poorly understood, despite its significant impact on human health. We are able to observe air quality metrics, paying particular attention to particulate concentrations in the sub-micron size fraction and compare them with spatial and meteorological factors. In the Gary and Valparaiso regions, the sensors have revealed certain qualitative trends which are reported. Meteorological factors, such as humidity and pressure, also play a role in influencing particulate concentrations, which are discussed. Notably, trends in pressure/temperature show a reverse relationship with particulate concentrations, and high humidities overestimate particulate concentrations.
Recommended Citation
Masters, Tekeidra; Orozco-Munoz, Abe; Hoskins, Jibreel; and Iceman, Chris, "Monitoring Qualitative Trends of Air Quality in Northwest Indiana" (2023). Summer Interdisciplinary Research Symposium. 165.
https://scholar.valpo.edu/sires/165
