A Holistic Approach To Outdoor Air Quality Monitoring Through Multiple Detection Methods

Faculty Sponsor

Dr. Chris Iceman

College

College of Arts & Sciences (CAS)

Department/Program

Chemistry

Presentation Type

Poster Presentation

Symposium Date

Summer 7-23-2025

Abstract

The process of monitoring air pollution, its source, its health effects, and its continued presence in our daily lives is a nuanced and challenging task. Air pollution is both a global and local issue, with particulate matter (PM) being a highly unmonitored contributor. Breathing in high concentrations of PM is especially concerning as chronic exposure has been linked to respiratory, cardiovascular, neurological, and developmental issues. As PM often originates from anthropogenic sources, many communities around Northwest Indiana (NWI) that are exposed to heavy industry and emissions are concerned about having poor air quality. To address these concerns, a closer look on informing and supporting these communities about their exposure to PM was investigated. To monitor local levels of PM, PurpleAir (PA) sensors were used as a cost effective and accessible option. Real time PM levels were available across NWI from the network of PA sensors that have been hosted and maintained through community involvement. In efforts to validate the PA sensors’ efficacy, comparisons to federally recognized methods from the Environmental Protection Agency have highlighted discrepancies between the various monitors. More questions about interpreting local air quality parameters and the differences between sensor types are both necessary to understand the benefits and drawbacks to different detection mechanisms. To best serve at-risk communities and prevent chronic exposure to pollutants like PM, a holistic and accessible approach is recommended for the future of air quality monitoring.

Biographical Information about Author(s)

Connor McMahon is a rising Junior, studying Civil Engineering with a minor in Spanish. Connor is the current president of VU’s American Society of Civil Engineers, a Resident Assistant, and a member of the VU Jazz Ensemble. He has spent this past summer working under Dr. Chris Iceman for researching outdoor air quality monitoring and really enjoys connecting with the community. Connor is hoping to read more books before the summer ends.

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