Monitoring Air Quality in Pasadena: A Look at Plume Labs' Flow 2 Device
Unexpected Pollutants from Eaton Fire in Pasadena and Altadena Revealed by Local Resident's Incredible Data Exposé
In the realm of personal air quality monitoring, devices like Plume Labs' Flow series play a significant role. These devices are designed to offer real-time measurements of air pollutants such as particulate matter (PM), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), ozone (O3), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), using sensors that detect pollutant levels.
Recently, one individual in Pasadena began using Plume Labs' Flow 2 device to monitor the air quality in their surroundings. The device, which records location, time, date, and pollution stats (PM1, PM2.5, PM10, NO2, VOC) in AQI, was put to use on January 8, 2025, following a previous review in 2022.
Comparing Plume Labs' Flow 2 to AQMD's Air Quality Index
The South Coast Air Quality Management District (AQMD) in California uses the Air Quality Index (AQI) to categorise air quality levels. Based on the concentration of pollutants like PM2.5, O3, NO2, and CO, the AQI provides a standardised measure of air quality that reflects potential health risks. Comparing data from personal monitoring devices like Plume Labs' Flow 2 to AQMD's AQI would involve correlating the specific pollutant concentrations measured by the device to the AQI categories, which are usually based on data from a network of fixed monitoring stations.
Unfortunately, specific data on Plume Labs' Flow 2 device and its comparison to AQMD's AQI was not readily available. However, the individual's personal data showed some interesting trends.
Trends in Pollutant Levels
The data collected from January 8 to February 28, 2025, revealed some intriguing patterns. For instance, NOX readings, which were around 1.7 in previous usage in 2022, decreased to zero by February 28, 2025. The particulate matter (PM1) generally decreased over time, but there was an increase in pm10 and pm 2.5 in the 20-28 day period.
The individual expressed concern about Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) due to the presence of diesel trucks in the area. Interestingly, VOCs were found to be higher five weeks after the fire than during the fire itself, with high levels detected at the market in Altadena.
The Role of Air Purifiers and Carbon Filters
The individual also noted that their indoor air purifiers, which include HEPA filters, helped in reducing particulate matter. VOCs require a special carbon filter to be removed from the air, and the Vornado air purifier in the bedroom, with two layers of carbon filters, was found to remove Nitrogen Dioxide from the air.
The Future of Air Quality Monitoring
Recent advancements in air quality monitoring include the use of advanced technologies such as lidar systems and satellite-based sensors. The upcoming launch of Sentinel-4 is expected to enhance Europe's air quality monitoring capabilities, while in the U.S., regulations are being revised to ensure more comprehensive monitoring, such as extending the monitoring period for unconventional oil and gas operations.
In conclusion, while specific data on Plume Labs' Flow 2 device and its comparison to AQMD's AQI was not available, the individual's personal data showed some interesting trends in air quality in Pasadena. Air quality monitoring devices like Plume Labs' Flow 2 are crucial for providing real-time data on pollutant levels, which can be compared to established indices like AQMD's AQI to assess local air quality conditions.
- The individual's personal use of Plume Labs' Flow 2 device in Pasadena revealed trends in various air pollutants, such as decreased NOX readings and an increase in PM10 and PM 2.5 levels.
- In the realm of health-and-wellness and fitness-and-exercise, monitoring air quality with devices like Plume Labs' Flow 2 can help individuals understand the potential effects of pollutants on mental-health and environmental-science concerns.
