Air Quality Sensors and Data Adjustment Algorithms: When Is It No Longer a Measurement?

Hagler et al expresses opinion on the use of air quality sensors and data adjustment algorithms in measuring outdoor air pollution. They said developers seek to maximize the quality and quantity of information from sensor technologies, while minimizing the cost of building and maintenance. The original equipment manufacturer (OEM) sensor components used for detection of atmospheric gases and particles generally trade off measurement selectivity, sensitivity, and reproducibility for miniaturization, power, and price. According to them, a critical issue is the debate on the appropriate design of sensor postprocessing algorithm concerning on various aspects such as the inclusion parameters for which there is no demonstrated measurement artifact on the state of the atmosphere.