A review on Exploring Low-Cost Sensors Efficacy with Digital display System in measuring of Indoor and ambient Air Quality parameters within India (PRISMA model)

Abstract

Low-cost sensors-based air quality monitoring in India is the need of the hour since existing reference-grade monitoring stations are expensive, limited in number and coverage. However, low-cost sensor application potential, status of existing constraints in implementation were unknown due to non-existence of review on current status of sensor-based monitoring in India. Hence, this review investigates the potential of low-cost sensors for monitoring air quality in India, with a particular focus on indoor environments, policy status, problems in sensor applications by conducting a comprehensive search, collation, and analysis of the literature in the relevant fields over the past two decades using PRISMA guidelines. A diverse range of low-cost sensors are available for measuring PM, gaseous pollutants, and meteorological parameters. Low-cost sensors-based projects are utilizing low-cost sensors for air quality monitoring, including the CHAI, the TAPHE-2, SATVAM and the ATMAN initiative. Pilot scale calibrated sensors were used to monitor air quality in six major locations under the ATMAN initiative. Low-cost monitors used by individuals /organizations were majorly not validated and were only qualitative. It is found that the low-cost sensors deployed have lower accuracy compared to reference-grade monitors in Indian regions. There were no agency or government authorized calibration procedure or data validation techniques available causing paucity in expansion of air quality monitoring. The following recommendations need to be addressed urgently to solve the above issue (i) To develop robust calibration procedures and invest in research to improve sensor accuracy and reliability. (ii) Explore the use of machine learning and data analytics for improved air quality prediction and forecasting. (iii) Expand government initiatives and public awareness campaigns to promote the use of low-cost sensors for air quality monitoring.