Improving Air Quality Data Accuracy Through Scientific Validation
Establishing Reliable Correction Factors for Low-Cost Air Quality Sensors
Reliable environmental data is essential for effective air quality management. To improve the accuracy of low-cost air quality monitoring technologies, Air Quality Systems (EA) Ltd. collaborated with the Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) on an extensive sensor colocation study.
Project Overview
The objective of the study was to evaluate the performance of low-cost sensors by colocating them with reference-grade monitoring instruments under identical environmental conditions.
The comparison enabled researchers to determine calibration coefficients and correction factors that improve measurement accuracy across varying environmental conditions.
Pollutants Evaluated
The study focused on several key pollutants affecting human health and environmental quality:
Nitrogen Dioxide (NO₂)
Sulphur Dioxide (SO₂)
PM₁₀
PM₂.₅
Benzene, Toluene, Ethylbenzene and Xylene (BTEX)
Continuous monitoring over an extended period generated a comprehensive dataset used to compare sensor outputs against reference measurements.
Why Colocation Matters
Low-cost sensors offer an affordable way to expand air quality monitoring networks, but their performance can be influenced by temperature, humidity, and local environmental conditions.
By conducting rigorous colocation studies, AQSEA ensures that deployed sensors provide reliable data suitable for:
Scientific research
Government reporting
Urban planning
Environmental compliance
Public health assessments
Project Outcomes
The study produced:
Improved calibration algorithms
Site-specific correction factors
Higher confidence in sensor data
Enhanced quality assurance procedures
Better long-term monitoring performance
The findings continue to strengthen the credibility of low-cost sensor networks deployed across Kenya and the wider East African region, ensuring that decision-makers have access to accurate, actionable environmental information.
