Airborne particles from urban pollution and allergens in our homes have a huge impact on our health and well-being. Data from the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) puts household air pollution and ambient particulate matter among the top risk factors for loss of healthy life years. However, advanced new air purifiers, featuring cutting-edge filter and sensor systems now offer a promising solution to improve indoor air quality and public health.

With asthma rates rising across all age groups, exacerbated by recent challenges such as COVID-19, air purifiers have become increasing popular for their ability to remove contaminants and allergens that can lead to health issues. They work by pulling air through a series of filters, each designed to capture particles of different sizes.

Advances in filter technologies

The latest generation of air purifiers make use of two key advances in air filter technology. The first are so-called high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters. These are capable of capturing particles as small as 0.3 microns with an efficiency of 99.97%. This means that even microscopic pollutants such as dust mites, pollen, and pet dander are effectively trapped, making HEPA filters a must-have feature for those with allergies or respiratory conditions. Going further, many modern air purifiers also neutralize unpleasant smells and improve overall air quality by using activated carbon filters to reduce total volatile organic compound (TVOC) levels.

Knowing when to switch on and off

For maximum efficiency and air quality, modern air purification systems need to monitor air quality and switch on and off at the right time. This requires particle matter sensors, but also temperature and humidity sensors to accurately detect and monitor pollutants and provide real-time feedback on air quality levels.

Previously that meant installing three separate sensors often close to each other in tight spaces. This was a real challenge for designers and manufacturers. To simplify designs, ScioSense has created a fully integrated sensor module that can be easily installed in compact air filters or air conditioning units.

APC1 – air quality combo sensor

The APC1 draws on many of ScioSense’s proven environmental sensing capabilities. A fully calibrated, maintenance-free, all-in-one air quality module no bigger than a matchbox, it can detect and monitor the three main particulate matter size categories (PM1.0, PM2.5, PM10). Moreover, it provides carbon dioxide (eCO2/CO2) and TVOC concentration data, as well as accurate air quality index (AQI) grade data over a wide range of temperatures and humidities.

For maximum flexibility the APC1 provides up to 20 environmental signal parameters through UART and I²C interfaces as well as improved intelligent algorithms. This helps simplify integration, accelerating time to market while minimizing overall BOM costs.

Harnessing the power of these innovative devices will help us all to breathe easier knowing that the air around us is cleaner, safer and healthier.

Click here to read more on the APC1