Photo Credit: City of St. Albert

Continuous Monitoring Stations

Near instantaneous measurements of pollutants, which can include nitrogen oxides, ozone, fine particulates, sulphur dioxide, hydrogen sulfide, carbon dioxide, ammonia, carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and total reduced sulphurs, depending on the individual station’s monitoring objectives. Most stations provide data for calculating the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI). Some stations are also used for intermittent monitoring (once every sixth day) in order to collect a 24-hour average pollutant concentration in accordance with the National Air Pollution Surveillance (NAPS) monitoring schedule.

For more information, download ACA’s print-ready card on Continuous Monitoring Stations (click below):

 

Passive Monitors

These do not require power and consist of a series of filters through which air passes and thus detect low sample amounts. They provide monthly average measurements. ACA’s passive monitor network is used to measure sulphur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide.

For more information, download ACA’s print-ready card on Passive Air Monitoring (click below):

Microsensor Technology

Community-based sensors can be used to contribute real-time air quality data at the neighbourhood level. The ACA currently utilizes PurpleAir sensors to measure fine particulate matter. Handheld or wearable air quality sensors can be utilized by the public as part of a citizen science or educational program to understanding air quality. ACA currently utilizes AirBeams and Plume Labs Flow devices.

Download ACA’s information card on Microsensor Technology  (click below):

 

Sensor Monitoring Site

The Aeroqual AQY-R is a small sensor monitoring system, that can extend air quality networks effectively, delivering scientifically credible hyperlocal data to the public. The AQY-R measures fine particulate (PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and ground level ozone (O3). The AQY-R is simple to set up and is well suited for community monitoring, as it can provide the community with Air Quality Health Index data.