S.D.M.

Jain matt Trust®

A.G.M RURAL COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY, VARUR
DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRONICS AND COMMUNICATIONENGINEERING

1. Abstract
Air pollution is a major environmental concern affecting public health and ecosystems. Traditional air
quality monitoring systems are often expensive and lack real-time data collection capabilities. This study
presents the development of a cost-effective, real-time air quality measurement system using IoT (Internet
of Things) technology. The system integrates various gas sensors (such as CO₂, CO, NO₂, and PM2.5)
with a microcontroller and wireless communication modules to continuously collect, process, and transmit
air quality data. The data is displayed on a cloud-based dashboard for real-time monitoring and analysis.
The system enables timely detection of hazardous pollution levels, allowing authorities and individuals to
take proactive measures. The proposed solution enhances environmental monitoring by providing
accurate, accessible, and real-time air quality data for smart cities and industrial applications.

The system is built upon a network of low-cost, highly sensitive air quality sensors capable of detecting
key pollutants such as particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides
(NOx), ozone (O3), and sulphur dioxide (SO2). These sensors are strategically distributed across target
locations to ensure extensive environmental coverage. Data collected by these sensors is transmitted
wirelessly to a centralized cloud-based server through a robust communication protocol, which could
utilize Wi-Fi, LoRa, or cellular networks.

Upon reception, the data is analysed in real time using advanced algorithms to identify pollution patterns
and predict trends. The integration of machine learning enables the system to improve its prediction
accuracy over time, learning from historical data and external factors such as weather conditions, traffic
patterns, and industrial activities. The results of the analysis are presented to users through an intuitive
and interactive web-based or mobile application, which provides visualizations such as pollution heat
maps, time-series graphs, and pollutant-specific warnings.
By offering actionable insights into air quality conditions, this system empowers individuals,
communities, and policymakers to make informed decisions, contributing to sustainable development
goals and improving the quality of life. The project demonstrates the potential of integrating modern
technologies to address critical environmental issues effectively.
 S.D.M. Jain matt Trust®
A.G.M RURAL COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY, VARUR
DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRONICS AND COMMUNICATIONENGINEERING

2. Introduction
Real-time air quality measurement systems have become increasingly important in recent years due to
the negative impact of air pollution on human health and the environment.

1. Need for Real-Time Air Quality Monitoring

The primary motivation behind the development of real time air quality measurement systems is the
need to monitor air pollution levels in real-time. Traditional air quality monitoring methods typically
involve collecting samples and analysing them in a lab, which is time-consuming and may not provide
real-time information.

2. Types of Air Pollutants

Real-time air quality measurement systems typically measure a range of pollutants, including
particulate matter (PM), nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulphur dioxide (SO2), carbon monoxide (CO), and
ozone (O3). These pollutants can have a significant impact on human health and the environment.

3. Sensor Technology

Real-time air quality measurement systems typically use sensor technology to measure air pollution
levels. There are many different types of sensors available, including electrochemical, optical, and
metal oxide sensors.

4. Data Collection and Analysis

Real-time air quality measurement systems collect data on air pollution levels and transmit this data to
a central database for analysis. This data can be used to identify pollution hotspots and to track changes
in pollution levels over time. Integration with Smart Cities: Real-time air quality measurement systems
can be integrated with smart city infrastructure to provide real-time information on air pollution levels
to citizens. This can help individuals make informed decisions about outdoor activities and can be used
to alert residents to potential health risks.
 S.D.M. Jain matt Trust®
A.G.M RURAL COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY, VARUR
DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRONICS AND COMMUNICATIONENGINEERING

3. Literature Survey
1. B. Jeyapragash and T. Santhi, "Real-Time Air Quality Monitoring System Design". International
Journal of Innovative Research in Science, Engineering and Technology, Vol. 4.

2. M. M. Ali, S. Saha, and N. Uddin, "Real-Time Air Quality Monitoring System for Smart Cities" IEEE
Access, Vol. 7.

3. K. Ramesh and S. K. Srivatsa, "A Real-Time Air Quality Monitoring System Using Wireless Sensor
Networks and Mobile Devices" International Journal of Innovative Research in Computer and
Communication Engineering, Vol. 1, No.3.

4. T. H. Nguyen, N. T. Nguyen, and N. N. Tran, "Development of a Real-Time Air Quality Monitoring

System Using Low-Cost Sensors" Sensors, Vol. 16, No. 10, pp. 1706, 2016.

5. Low-Cost Real-Time Monitoring Systems* (Kumar et al., 2020) – Focused on affordable, urban-
friendly systems using sensors for PM, CO2, and NOx, with real-time data transmission.

6. IoT-Based Air Quality Monitoring* (Sharma et al., 2019) – Developed systems that integrate IoT to
visualize and transfer air quality data to cloud platforms for real-time monitoring.

7. Wireless Sensor Networks* (Yadav et al., 2020) – Explored the use of WSNs for scalable, real-time
pollutant monitoring in urban and industrial environments.

8. Mobile and Cloud-Based Systems (Gupta et al., 2018) – Presented systems combining mobile apps and
cloud computing to allow remote monitoring and community involvement.

9. Urban and Industrial Monitoring (Chandran et al., 2019) – Developed systems for real-time monitoring
of various pollutants in both urban and industrial settings, supporting policymaking.

10. Real-Time Data Analysis Using IoT (Patel et al., 2020) – Introduced an IoT system for collecting and
analysing air quality data using cloud technologies for predictive insights.
 S.D.M. Jain matt Trust®
A.G.M RURAL COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY, VARUR
DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRONICS AND COMMUNICATIONENGINEERING

4. Problem Statement
Air pollution has become a major environmental and public health concern worldwide. Increasing levels
of pollutants such as particulate matter (PM2.5, PM10), carbon monoxide (CO), sulphur dioxide (SO2),
nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) pose serious threats to human health,
ecosystems, and climate change.
Traditional air quality monitoring methods are often expensive, static, and provide delayed data, making
it difficult to take immediate action to mitigate pollution impacts. The lack of accessible, real time, and
affordable air quality monitoring systems makes it challenging for individuals, communities, and
authorities to monitor air pollution in their immediate surroundings and respond promptly to hazardous
air conditions.
The primary challenges in developing such a system include sensor accuracy, data transmission efficiency,
real-time processing, and scalability. The system should integrate IoT-based sensors, cloud computing,
and data visualization tools to enable continuous monitoring, alert mechanisms, and data-driven decision-
making for government agencies, environmental organizations, and individuals. Traditional air quality
monitoring systems are often expensive, limited in coverage, and provide data with delays, making real-
time decision-making difficult. There is a growing need for a cost-effective, real-time air quality
measurement system that can provide accurate and timely data on air pollutants such as PM2.5, PM10,
CO2, CO, NO2, and VOCs.

This project aims to develop a real-time air quality measurement system using low-cost sensors and
Internet of Things (IoT) technology to measure and monitor air pollution levels in real-time. The system
will collect data on key air quality parameters, transmit it to a cloud platform, and provide users with real-
time data visualization and alerts. This will enable better decision-making for individuals, policymakers,
and environmental agencies to reduce exposure to harmful air pollutants and promote cleaner air
initiatives.
 S.D.M. Jain matt Trust®
A.G.M RURAL COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY, VARUR
DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRONICS AND COMMUNICATIONENGINEERING

5. Objectives of the Project

1. Accurate and timely measurement
The primary objective of a real-time air quality measurement system is to provide accurate and timely
information about the air quality in a given location. This information should be precise and reliable,
allowing stakeholders to make informed decisions about their activities and behaviours.
2. Identification of pollutants
A real-time air quality measurement system should be capable of identifying and measuring various
pollutants present in the air. This information can be used to track the sources of pollution and take
appropriate actions to mitigate their impact.
3. Continuous monitoring
An air quality measurement system should be capable of continuously monitoring the air quality in real-
time, providing a continuous stream of data for analysis and decision-making.
4. Integration with other systems
The air quality measurement system should be designed to integrate with other environmental monitoring
systems, such as weather stations, to provide a more comprehensive picture of the environment.
5. Alert system
The system should be capable of sending alerts and warnings to stakeholders when air quality levels reach
dangerous levels. This can help protect the health and safety of individuals in the area.
6. Long-term data collection
The air quality measurement system should be designed to collect and store data over the long-term,
allowing for trend analysis and the identification of long-term environmental issues.
 S.D.M. Jain matt Trust®
A.G.M RURAL COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY, VARUR
DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRONICS AND COMMUNICATIONENGINEERING

6. Methodology
1. Power Supply: DC power supply is often used to power air quality monitoring systems. These power
supplies provide a stable, constant voltage output and can be designed to meet specific voltage and current
requirements. Power requirements of the system, including the voltage and current needed to power the
sensors and other components.

2. Temperature Sensor: A temperature sensor is an electronic device that is used to measure the
temperature of a particular environment or object. Temperature sensors can be found in a wide range of
applications. Here sensor is monitoring the real time temperature in particular location.

3. Air Quality Measurement Sensor: Air quality measurement sensors are electronic devices used to
detect and measure the presence of various pollutants and gases in the air. These sensors can detect a range
of substances, including carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, ozone, sulphur dioxide, and particulate
matter.

4. GPS Tracker: A GPS tracker device is an electronic device that uses Global Positioning System (GPS)
technology to determine the location of a person, vehicle, or other asset. The device receives signals from
GPS satellites to determine its location and then transmits this information to a receiver via cellular or
satellite communication.

5. ESP32 Microcontroller: ESP32 is a low-cost, low-power system-on-chip (SoC) microcontroller

developed by Espresso Systems. It is designed for Internet of Things (IoT) applications and has built-in
Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. The ESP32 is a popular choice for IoT projects due to its low cost, low
power consumption, and built-in connectivity features. It is also supported by a large and active
community of developers, which has resulted in a wide range of libraries and tools that make it easy to
develop applications for the ESP32.

6. LCD Display: An LCD display (Liquid Crystal Display) is a type of flat panel display that uses liquid
crystals to create images. It is fed from ESP32 microcontroller. Here LCD is used to display the
temperature, air quality measurements and other application.
 S.D.M. Jain matt Trust®
A.G.M RURAL COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY, VARUR
DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRONICS AND COMMUNICATIONENGINEERING
 S.D.M. Jain matt Trust®
A.G.M RURAL COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY, VARUR
DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRONICS AND COMMUNICATIONENGINEERING

7. Scope of the Project

The scope of this project encompasses the design, development, and deployment of a real-time air quality
monitoring system to measure and analyse air pollution levels. The project is aimed at providing real-time
air quality data to individuals, communities, and authorities to promote awareness, prompt actions, and
policy formulation for improved air quality. The major scope areas of the project are as follows:

1. Measurement of Key Air Quality Parameters:

The system will measure the following air pollutants in real-time: Particulate Matter (PM2.5, PM10) –
Small airborne particles harmful to health. Carbon Monoxide (CO) – A colourless, odourless gas that can
cause health issues. Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) – A pollutant from vehicles and industrial processes. Sulphur
Dioxide (SO2) – Emitted from industrial processes and combustion of fossil fuels. Volatile Organic
Compounds (VOCs) – Harmful gases from industrial and household products.

2. Real-Time Data Monitoring and Transmission:

The system will collect real-time data from air quality sensors. The data will be transmitted to a cloud
platform or central database using IoT (Internet of Things) technology. The system will provide live
updates, reducing delays in accessing air quality data.

3.Portability and Low-Cost Design:

The system will be designed using low-cost, readily available air quality sensors and microcontrollers. It
will be portable, allowing deployment in various locations such as homes, schools, offices, and industrial
areas. This ensures affordability and accessibility for a wide range of users.

4. Impact and Applications:

Provides real-time air quality data to individuals and communities, helping them take preventive measures.
Supports local authorities in formulating policies to reduce pollution and improve air quality. Enhances
public awareness about air pollution and its impact on health. Can be used in schools, hospitals, industrial
zones, residential areas, and urban centres.
 S.D.M. Jain matt Trust®
A.G.M RURAL COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY, VARUR
DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRONICS AND COMMUNICATIONENGINEERING

8. Expected Output
The successful implementation of this project will yield several valuable outcomes that contribute to
improved air quality monitoring and public health awareness. The key expected outcomes are as follows:
1. Real-Time Air Quality Data Collection:
The system will successfully collect real-time data on major air pollutants such as PM2.5, PM10, CO,
NO2, SO2, and VOCs. Accurate and continuous air quality measurements will be obtained from the
environment, providing up-to-date information.
2. Cloud-Based Data Storage and Access:
The collected air quality data will be transmitted to a cloud platform or centralized database. This will
allow easy access to data from anywhere via the internet, enabling real-time monitoring. Historical data
will also be stored, allowing for trend analysis and comparison over time.
3.User-Friendly Dashboard or Mobile Application:
The project will deliver a web-based dashboard or mobile application to display real-time air quality data
in an easy-to-understand format. Visual representations such as graphs, charts, and maps will help users
easily interpret air quality conditions. Users will be able to check air quality status in their surroundings
or selected locations.
4. Increased Public Awareness about Air Pollution:
By providing easily accessible real-time air quality data, the project will promote awareness about air
pollution and its impact on health. People will become more conscious about reducing their contribution
to air pollution and protecting their health.
5. Enhanced Health Protection Measures:
The system will indirectly contribute to better public health by reducing exposure to polluted air. People
with respiratory conditions, children, and the elderly can use the data to adjust their outdoor activities.
 S.D.M. Jain matt Trust®
A.G.M RURAL COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY, VARUR
DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRONICS AND COMMUNICATIONENGINEERING

Fig. 8.1

Fig. 8.2
 S.D.M. Jain matt Trust®
A.G.M RURAL COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY, VARUR
DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRONICS AND COMMUNICATIONENGINEERING

9. Technologies Used
Real-time air quality monitoring systems rely on various technologies, including sensor networks, data
transmission (like IoT), data processing and analysis, and visualization, to detect and track pollutants.

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

1. Sensor Technology

Various sensors: These systems use a range of sensors to detect different pollutants, including particulate
matter (PM2.5, PM10), gases (CO, NO2, SO2, ozone), and other contaminants.

Electrochemical sensors: Commonly used to measure gases like CO, NO2, and ozone.

Infrared gas analysers: Effective for detecting gases like methane and sulphur dioxide.

Nephelometers: Used to monitor particulate matter like dusts, smokes, mists, and fumes, reporting results
in μg/m3 or mg/m3.

2. Data Transmission (IoT)

a. Wireless Communication:

Sensors often use wireless technologies (like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, LoRaWAN) to transmit data to a central
hub or cloud platform for processing.

b. Real-time Data:

IoT enables real-time data collection and transmission, allowing for immediate insights into air quality
conditions.
 S.D.M. Jain matt Trust®
A.G.M RURAL COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY, VARUR
DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRONICS AND COMMUNICATIONENGINEERING

3. Data Processing and Analysis

a. Cloud Platforms:

Data collected from sensors is often stored and processed in the cloud, enabling analysis and interpretation.

Machine Learning:

Machine learning algorithms can be used to analyse trends, predict future air quality, and even identify
sources of pollution.

b. Data Visualization:

Tools are used to create interactive maps and dashboards to display air quality data in a clear and accessible
manner.

4. Air Quality Index (AQI)

Government Agencies: Air quality indices are developed by government agencies to communicate air
quality information to the public.

a. Risk Assessment: AQI helps assess the potential health risks associated with air pollution.

b. Different Indices: Different countries have their own AQI, such as Canada's Air Quality Health Index
and Malaysia's Air Pollution Index.

C/C++ – For microcontroller programming (Arduino IDE or

Platform IO). python – For Raspberry Pi-based applications and
data processing. b) Mobile Application

Flutter / Android Studio (Java/Kotlin) –

To create a mobile application for accessing air quality data on smartphones.

Push notifications for alerts in case of hazardous air quality.

 S.D.M. Jain matt Trust®
A.G.M RURAL COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY, VARUR
DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRONICS AND COMMUNICATIONENGINEERING

10. Progress of The Project

The project is being developed in multiple phases to ensure systematic implementation and testing.

Phase 1: Research and Planning (Completed)

tasks Completed:

1. Identified the problem statement and scope of the project.

2. Researched various air pollutants and their impact on health.

3. Selected appropriate sensors and microcontrollers for the project.

4. Defined the data transmission method (Wi-Fi, GSM, or Bluetooth).

5. Chose cloud platform options for data storage and visualization.

Outcome:

1. Clear understanding of the project's technical and functional requirements.

2. Selection of components such as PM2.5, PM10, CO, NO2, and VOC sensors
 S.D.M. Jain matt Trust®
A.G.M RURAL COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY, VARUR
DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRONICS AND COMMUNICATIONENGINEERING

11. References
1. M.F. Mohd Pu'ad, T.S. Gunawan, M. Kartiwi, and Z. Janin, "Development of Air Quality Measurement
System using Raspberry Pi," 2018 IEEE 5th Int. Conf. Smart Instrumentation, Meas. Appl.
ICSIMA 2018, 2018, doi: 10.1109/ICSIMA.2018.8688748.

2. U.R. Kalita, H. Kashyap, A. Chetri, and J. Ahmed, "Centralized Air Pollution Detection and
Monitoring: A Review", ADBU Journal of Electrical and Electronics Engineering (AJEEE), vol. 2, no.
1, pp. 49-
54, 2018.

3. C. Balasubramaniyan and D. Manivannan, "IoT enabled Air Quality Monitoring System (AQMS)
using Raspberry Pi," Indian Journal of Science and Technology, vol. 9, no. 39, 2016, doi:
10.17485/ijst/2016/v9i39/90414.

4. M. Taştan and H. Gökozan, "Real-time monitoring of indoor air quality with internet of things-based
E-nose," Applied Science, vol. 9, no. 16,2019, doi: 10.3390/app9163435.

5. M.F. Mohd Pu'ad, T S. Gunawan, M. Kartiwi, and Z. Janin, "Performance evaluation of portable air
quality measurement system using Raspberry Pi for remote monitoring," Indonesian Journal of
Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, vol. 17, no. 2, pp. 564-574, 2020.
 S.D.M.JainmattTrust®
A.G.MRURALCOLLEGEOFENGINEERINGANDTECHNOLOGY,VARUR
DEPARTMENTOFELECTRONICSANDCOMMUNICATIONENGINEERING
 S.D.M.JainmattTrust®
A.G.MRURALCOLLEGEOFENGINEERINGANDTECHNOLOGY,VARUR
.D.M.JainmattTrust®