measure particulates with air-Q
Air quality

measuring particulates : Why air quality is important and how to do it

particulates is an invisible pollutant that floats in the air and represents a considerable burden on health and the environment. Particularly indoors, particulates can affect the air quality unnoticed. But how can particulates be measured and what options are there to reduce pollution?

Author:

Lena Bremstahler

Date:

27.1.2025

In this article you will find the following content:

What is particulates and why is it problematic?

particulates consist of tiny particles in the air that are less than 10 micrometers in diameter (PM10) or even as small as 2.5 micrometers (PM2.5). These particles can penetrate deep into the respiratory tract and cause health problems such as:

  • Respiratory diseases,
  • Cardiovascular problems and
  • allergic reactions

cause. In addition to industrial emissions and traffic, wood-burning stoves and other heating systems also contribute to particulate matter pollution, especially indoors.

How can you measure particulates ?

Specialized particulate matter measuring devices or devices with particulate matter sensors are used to measure particulates effectively. These devices analyze the air for particles such as PM10 and PM2.5 and provide information about the air quality in your home.

Methods for measuring particulate matter

  1. Laser-based sensors: Most modern particulate matter measuring devices use lasers to detect the number of particles in the air. This method is fast and precise.
  2. Gravimetric methods: These measure the weight of the particles and are very accurate, but are more suitable for professional applications.
  3. Mobile particulate matter measuring devices: These devices are compact and ideal for domestic use. They can often measure additional parameters such as temperature, humidity and TVOCs (volatile organic compounds).

Particulate matter measuring devices for the home: how to find the right model

Choosing a particulate matter monitor for home use depends on your individual needs. Here are some aspects you should consider:

1. measuring range and accuracy

A good particulate matter monitor should accurately measure the concentration of PM2.5 and PM10. These values are crucial for correctly assessing air quality.

2. additional measuring functions

Some devices not only measure particulates, but also other environmental factors such as:

These functions are useful for obtaining a comprehensive picture of the indoor air.

3. user-friendliness

A simple operating concept and an easy-to-read display make handling easier. Mobile devices with an app connection offer additional convenient functions such as data storage and analysis.

4. application for wood-burning stoves

Especially for households with wood-burning stoves, there are devices that measure emissions directly at the stove. These help to optimize the efficiency of the stove and control fine dust pollution.

Is the air-Q suitable as a particulate matter measuring device?

With a particulate matter measuring device such as the air-Q , you can analyze the composition of indoor air in a targeted manner. An infrared laser is used to reliably detect and distinguish between particles of different sizes. The high-quality sensor guarantees particularly high measurement accuracy.

The air-Q fine dust sensor detects the smallest particles using optical scattering. Inside the sensor, an infrared LED and a detector are isolated from each other by a partition wall. As soon as a fine dust particle passes the light of the LED, the detector registers a brief flash. Larger particles generate brighter flashes of light, while smaller particles generate weaker signals. The air-Q counts these flashes of light and thus provides extremely precise measurement values for fine dust pollution indoors.

The air-Q helps you to measure particulates

Tips for reducing particulates indoors

In addition to the measurement, you can also actively reduce the fine dust pollution in your home:

  1. Ventilation: Regular airing helps to improve the air quality.
  2. Efficient heating methods: Use low-emission heating systems and make sure your stove is well maintained.
  3. Air purifier: Use air purifiers with HEPA filters to remove fine dust particles from the air.

Conclusion

Particulate matter measuring devices for the home offer an effective way of monitoring air quality and minimizing health risks from particulates . Households with wood-burning stoves in particular should ensure that particulate levels are low. With the right devices and preventive measures, you can make your living environment healthier and benefit in the long term.

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Summary

What is particulates?
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particulates consist of tiny particles (PM10 and PM2.5) that can penetrate deep into the respiratory tract. It can cause respiratory diseases, cardiovascular problems and allergic reactions.
Where do particulates come from indoors?
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particulates are produced by industrial emissions, traffic and heating systems such as stoves. Smoking and cooking can also increase exposure.
How can you measure particulates in the home?
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particulates can be recorded using special measuring devices. These analyze the air for PM10 and PM2.5. Devices with laser-based sensors are fast and precise, while gravimetric methods deliver particularly accurate results.
What functions should a particulate matter meter have?
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A good device should be able to measure particulates (PM10 and PM2.5) accurately. Additional functions such as recording temperature, humidity and CO2 content provide a more comprehensive picture of air quality.
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