Methodology & Calculations

Understanding how we measure and calculate air quality

1. Sensor Hardware & Data Collection

We utilize the PM1006K optical dust sensor (LED Particle Sensor) for monitoring Particulate Matter (PM2.5). This sensor uses laser scattering technology to detect particles with aerodynamic diameter of 0.3µm to 10µm.

  • Measurement Range: 0 to 1,000 µg/m³
  • Accuracy: ±20% or ±20 µg/m³
  • Response Time: 8 seconds
  • Sampling Rate: Data collected every 30 seconds

View Sensor Datasheet →

2. Data Aggregation

To provide meaningful insights over time, raw 30-second readings are aggregated (averaged) into larger time blocks depending on the selected view. This helps smooth out noise and identify trends.

Time ViewAggregation IntervalData Range
1 Day1 HourLast 24 Hours
7 Days2 HoursLast 168 Hours
15 Days3 HoursLast 360 Hours
30 Days6 HoursLast 720 Hours

3. AQI Calculation Standard

We calculate the Air Quality Index (AQI) based on the standard linear interpolation formula for PM2.5 (µg/m³). The breakpoints used in our system are as follows:

Reference Breakpoints

PM2.5 Range (µg/m³)AQI Range
0.0 – 12.00 – 50 (Good)
12.1 – 35.451 – 100 (Moderate)
35.5 – 55.4101 – 150 (Unhealthy for Sensitive)
55.5 – 150.4151 – 200 (Unhealthy)
150.5 – 250.4201 – 300 (Very Unhealthy)
250.5 – 350.4301 – 400 (Hazardous)

Sample Calculation

Let's calculate AQI for a PM2.5 reading of 45.0 µg/m³.

1. Identify Range: 45.0 falls between 35.5 (Clow) and 55.4 (Chigh).
2. Identify AQI Range: Corresponding AQI limits are 101 (Ilow) and 150 (Ihigh).
AQI = [ (Ihigh - Ilow) / (Chigh - Clow) ] × (C - Clow) + Ilow

AQI = [ (150 - 101) / (55.4 - 35.5) ] × (45.0 - 35.5) + 101

AQI = [ 49 / 19.9 ] × 9.5 + 101

AQI = 2.46 × 9.5 + 101

AQI = 23.37 + 101 ≈ 124