Detection of warning signal of particulate emission on the basis of fixed threshold in real-time using a lidar system

Abstract

Monitoring pollutant emissions in an urban area is of primary importance in order to guarantee high levels of human health (by reducing the impact of respiratory diseases on urban inhabitants) and good preservation of objects (such as historical sites or buildings). The European Environment Agency (EEA) has established that the maximum concentration of PM2.5 concentration for long-term exposure is 10 μg/m3. By measuring the light that has been backscattered by atmospheric particulates, the lidar technique seems to be a valid method to provide a warning signal when a particulate concentration threshold is exceeded. In addition, the lidar system can also provide information about the distance at which the particulate threshold is exceeded. In this research measurements of traffic-originated particulate in the area near the University of Rome “Tor Vergata” is analysed at different times on a weekday to obtain continuous monitoring of its backscattering coefficient, values of particulate concentration and details about time and distance from the lidar system at which a warning signal is provided. The University of Rome “Tor Vergata” is in an area where traffic is very heavy, so high pollutant concentration values are to be expected.