abstract
This study explores the application of low-cost sensor networks for air quality monitoring in Cabo Verde islands, utilizing Clarity Node-S sensors to measure fine particulate matter with diameters equal to or smaller than 10 mu m (PM10) and 2.5 mu m (PM2.5) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) gasses, across various locations. The sensors were strategically placed and calibrated to ensure coverage of the whole archipelago and accurate data collection. The results consistently revealed seasonal patterns of dust variation across the archipelago, with concentrations of particulate matter exceeding World Health Organization (WHO) limits in all regions. However, Praia frequently exhibits the highest levels of air pollution, exceeding a 200 mu g/m(3) daily average, particularly during the dry season. Seasonal variations indicated that pollutants are significantly higher from November to March due to Saharan dust flux (a phenomenon locally know as Bruma Seca). Other cities showed more stable and lower pollutant concentrations. This study highlights the potential of low-cost sensors to provide extensive and real-time air quality data, enabling better environmental assessment and policy formulation. However, the variability in equipment accuracy and the limited geographical coverage remain the main limitations to be overcome. Future research should focus on these issues, and a sensor network integrated with reference methods could be a great asset to enhance data accuracy and improve outcomes of air quality monitoring in the country.
subject category
Chemistry; Engineering; Instruments & Instrumentation
authors
da Costa, AZ; Aniceto, JPS; Lopes, M
our authors
José P. S. Aniceto
Junior ResearcherProjects
CICECO - Aveiro Institute of Materials (UIDB/50011/2020)
CICECO - Aveiro Institute of Materials (UIDP/50011/2020)
Associated Laboratory CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials (LA/P/0006/2020)
acknowledgements
This research was supported by the Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT) under grant PRT/BD/154862/2023. Additional financial assistance was provided by the Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies (CESAM) through the projects UIDP/50017/2020, UIDB/50017/2020, and LA/P/0094/2020. This work was developed within the scope of the project CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, UIDB/50011/2020 (DOI 10.54499/UIDB/50011/2020), UIDP/50011/2020 (DOI 10.54499/UIDP/50011/2020) & LA/P/0006/2020 (DOI 10.54499/LA/P/0006/2020), financed by national funds through the FCT/MCTES (PIDDAC). J.P.S.A. thanks FCT (Fundacao para a Ciencia e a Tecnologia) for funding under the Scientific Employment Stimulus-CEEC Individual 2020 (DOI 10.54499/2020.02534.CEECIND/CP1589/CT0014).