M.S. Thesis Defense: Robert (Tuck) K. Burton
Thursday, July 13, 2017 · 9 - 10 AM
M.S. Thesis Defense Announcement
Candidate: Robert (Tuck) K. Burton
Thursday, July 13th, 9:00 AM
TRC 206
Title: Analysis of Low-Cost Particulate Matter Shinyei Sensor for Asthma Research
Abstract: Asthma is a prevalent chronic respiratory ailment which affects 7.1 million children in the United States. Asthma is aggravated by environmental and physiological factors, including air pollutants such as particulate matter. Particulate matter includes solid and liquid particles suspended in the air, such as pollen, dust, dander, and smoke. This research contributes to the development of a low-cost, low-power particulate matter sensor. The particulate matter sensor will aid in the determination of the triggers for asthma by allowing for more accurate identification of particle concentration, size, and type. This project involved a detailed characterization of the Shinyei PD42NS particle sensor. The particle sensor uses a process known as nephelometry, light scattering, to measure the particle concentration. The sensor performance was characterized for varying particle types and sizes, including sodium chloride (NaCl), polystyrene latex (PSL) microspheres, and incense smoke. Modifications to the sensor by changing the LED type, increasing the air flow rate, and lowering the threshold of detection were investigated. Ultimately, this work will inform the development of a new low-cost, wearable PM sensor that will be deployed for pediatric asthma research.
Candidate: Robert (Tuck) K. Burton
Thursday, July 13th, 9:00 AM
TRC 206
Title: Analysis of Low-Cost Particulate Matter Shinyei Sensor for Asthma Research
Abstract: Asthma is a prevalent chronic respiratory ailment which affects 7.1 million children in the United States. Asthma is aggravated by environmental and physiological factors, including air pollutants such as particulate matter. Particulate matter includes solid and liquid particles suspended in the air, such as pollen, dust, dander, and smoke. This research contributes to the development of a low-cost, low-power particulate matter sensor. The particulate matter sensor will aid in the determination of the triggers for asthma by allowing for more accurate identification of particle concentration, size, and type. This project involved a detailed characterization of the Shinyei PD42NS particle sensor. The particle sensor uses a process known as nephelometry, light scattering, to measure the particle concentration. The sensor performance was characterized for varying particle types and sizes, including sodium chloride (NaCl), polystyrene latex (PSL) microspheres, and incense smoke. Modifications to the sensor by changing the LED type, increasing the air flow rate, and lowering the threshold of detection were investigated. Ultimately, this work will inform the development of a new low-cost, wearable PM sensor that will be deployed for pediatric asthma research.
