8. Data Quality and Accuracy
Accuracy of AirQo Monitors
- Periodic calibration against reference-grade monitors (BAM, TEOM, FEM).
- Localised calibration models for individual cities.
- Continuous quality control algorithms and outlier detection.
- Performance: Strong correlation with reference monitors (R² typically >0.8); meets research-grade data quality standards for epidemiological studies.
Measurement Parameters
Currently available: PM2.5 (Particulate Matter ≤2.5 μm) and PM10 (Particulate Matter ≤10 μm). These are the most health-relevant pollutants in African cities, associated with cardiovascular disease, respiratory illness, premature mortality, adverse birth outcomes, and cognitive impacts.
AirQo is actively developing expanded capabilities to include gaseous parameters (NO₂, O₃, CO, SO₂). Contact us for updates on parameter availability.
Limitations and Appropriate Use
AirQo monitors are designed for: ambient outdoor air quality monitoring, spatial mapping of urban pollution, long-term trend analysis, exposure assessment, policy evaluation, and public health investigations.
AirQo monitors are not designed for: stack emission measurements, indoor air quality as a primary use case, extremely high concentration environments, or real-time personal wearable exposure monitoring.
AirQo monitors include temperature and humidity sensors for calibration purposes only. Meteorological data is not provided through our platforms. For weather data, use national meteorological agencies, reanalysis datasets (ERA5, MERRA-2), or weather station networks.