The “AirClean” project, developed by students from the National Agricultural University of La Molina (UNALM), provides a comprehensive air quality monitoring and prediction system. It uses sensors to measure the concentration of gases such as CO, CO2, SO2, NO2 and LPG in real time. The prototype has a variety of applications, from preventing respiratory illnesses in homes to detecting possible gas leaks in factories.
The project, driven by the UNALM Business Analysis Circle, is currently in the testing phase and the temporary equipment will be replaced with higher quality sensors. It is designed for public health authorities, small and medium-sized businesses and anyone interested in monitoring the air quality of their environment. Data can be accessed via a web platform.
“AirClean” is particularly useful for detecting high concentrations of LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) in your home, which can help prevent respiratory illness and warn of possible poisoning.
It may also be crucial in avoiding long-term effects such as chronic bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and cardiovascular problems. If pollutant levels are high, you can take steps such as ventilating your home or using an air purifier.
The project is particularly important after an accident at a natural gas bottling plant in Villa Salvador (Lima) injured three people. In this case, a system like “AirClean” can detect gas buildup early.
‘AirClean’ is a low-cost, simply designed project that is part of more than 50 initiatives presented at the Third Research Week’s annual conference on Research, Development, Innovation and Entrepreneurship.
Dr. Patricia Gil Kodaka, UNALM Vice-President for Research, stressed the importance of such initiatives to promote research and scientific development at the University