You are here:
U.S. EPA Performance Testing Protocols, Metrics, and Targets for Air Sensors
Citation:
Duvall, R., A. Clements, K. Barkjohn, M. Kumar, D. Greene, T. Dye, V. Papapostolou, W. Mui, AND M. Kuang. U.S. EPA Performance Testing Protocols, Metrics, and Targets for Air Sensors. Air Sensors International Conference, Riverside, CA, April 30 - May 03, 2024.
Impact/Purpose:
The use of air sensor technologies continues to grow for a variety of applications. However, there is still significant variability in sensor data quality. Standard testing protocols to evaluate air sensors are needed to better understand sensor performance and to help users select sensors that are appropriately suited for a desired application. In 2021, the U.S. EPA published two reports outlining testing protocols, metrics, and target values to evaluate the performance of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and ozone (O3) air sensors for use in non-regulatory supplemental and informational monitoring applications. EPA is continuing these efforts by developing supplemental reports to the original 2021 reports with recommended testing protocols, metrics, and target values for air sensors measuring particles with diameters less than 10 microns (PM10), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), carbon monoxide (CO), and sulfur dioxide (SO2) air sensors. This work is important as it will provide a consistent approach for sensor performance evaluations, help increase confidence in data quality, help stimulate improvements and development in the marketplace, and help consumers choose sensors appropriate for applications of interest. Groups that would be interested or could apply the results from this work include state/local/tribal agencies, EPA Regional Offices, other Federal agencies and departments, international organizations, academia, sensor manufacturers/developers, sensor testing organizations, and the general public.
Description:
As the development and use of air sensors continues to expand, understanding the performance of sensors remains a critical need given the variability in sensor data quality. To help support consumers and developers of air sensor technologies, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA) published reports in 2021 and 2023 outlining recommended testing protocols, metrics, and target values to evaluate the performance of air sensors used in non-regulatory supplemental and informational monitoring applications (NSIM). The 2021 reports covered ozone (O3) and fine particulate matter (PM2.5) sensors, and the 2023 reports were supplemental reports discussing sensors measuring particles with diameters of 10 microns or less (PM10), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), carbon monoxide (CO), and sulfur dioxide (SO2). The goals of these efforts are to provide a consistent approach for evaluating sensor performance, provide guidance on appropriate testing environments (where applicable), and encourage consistent reporting of evaluation results. Additionally, the reports aim to provide confidence in sensor data quality, help guide future technology improvements, and assist users in selecting appropriate sensors for their NSIM application of interest. This presentation will summarize the U.S. EPA’s work to date in developing guidance for evaluating the performance of air sensors.
