&EPA
EPA/600/R-16/049 | May 2016 | www.epa.gov/ord
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Citizen Science Air Monitoring
in the Ironbound Community
I Off ice of Research and Development
(National Exposure Research Laboratory
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EPA/600/R-16/049 | May 2016 | www.epa.gov/ord
Citizen Science Air Monitoring in the
Ironbound Community
Timothy Barzyk and Ron Williams
National Exposure Research Laboratory
Office of Research and Development
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Research Triangle Park, NC, USA 27711
Amanda Kaufman
ORISE Participant
Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education
Oak Ridge, TN, USA 37831
Molly Greenberg
Ironbound Community Corporation
Newark, NJ 07105
Marie O'Shea, Patricia Sheridan, Anhthu Hoang, Avraham Teitz, Christine Ash,
and Mustafa Mustafa
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Region 2
Sam Garvey
Alion Science and Technology
P.O. Box 12313
Research Triangle Park, NC, USA 27709
11
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Disclaimer
This technical report presents the results of work performed by Alion Science and
Technology under contract EP-D-10-070 for the Exposure Measurements and Methods Division,
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA), Research Triangle Park, NC. It has been
reviewed by the U.S. EPA and approved for publication. This was a U.S. EPA generated report
with the Ironbound Community Corporation (ICC) providing review and commentary. Mention of
trade names or commercial products does not constitute endorsement or recommendation for use.
in
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Acknowledgments
Work performed here was conducted under a RARE (Regional Applied Research Effort)
associated with the Office of Research and Development (National Exposure Research
Laboratory) and the United States Environmental Protection Agency's Region 2. The Ironbound
Community Corporation (ICC) was a funded partner and contributor to this effort through a
subcontract agreement within EPA contract EP-D-10-070. In doing so, they provided an efficient
means for the U.S. EPA to interact with citizen scientists and provided technical support regarding
day-to-day field operations. The authors wish to thank community residents of the ICC who
conducted field-monitoring events in support of investigating local air quality and the goals of this
research effort in a voluntary manner as true citizen scientists. The authors kindly appreciate the
New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) National Core (NCore) site for
allowing collocation of the Citizen Science Air Monitors (CSAMs) and providing collocation data.
This research was supported in part by an appointment to the Research Participation Program for
the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, administered
by the Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education through an interagency agreement between
the U.S. Department of Energy and EPA (DW 8992298301).
IV
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Table of Contents
List of Tables vi
List of Figures vii
Acronyms and Abbreviations viii
Executive Summary x
1.0 Introduction 1
1.1 Ironbound Community 2
1.2 Citizen Science and Air Monitoring 4
2.0 Materials and Methods 6
2.1 Pollutants of Interest 7
2.2 Citizen Science Air Monitor (CSAM) 8
2.3 Technical Training 14
2.4 Quality Assurance/Quality Control 15
2.5 Collocation and Sensor Calibration to Federal Stations 19
2.6 Deployment Plan 26
2.7 Community Liaison Duties 27
3.0 Results and Discussion 28
3.1 General Findings 28
3.2 PM2.s Results 30
3.3 NO2 Results 32
3.4 General Discussion 34
4.0 Lessons Learned 36
4.1 Value of Citizen Science Data 37
4.2 Ironbound Citizen Science Accomplishments 37
Appendix A: Quality Assurance Project Plan 38
Appendix B: CSAM Quality Assurance Guidelines 94
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List of Tables
Table 1-1. Project Objectives 5
Table 2-1. Pollutants, source types, and health effects 7
Table 2-2. CSAM design requirements 8
Table 2-3. Measurement units reported by each CSAM component 13
Table 2-4. CSAM pump replacement history 14
Table 2-5. Study QA features 16
Table 2-6. Regression equations selected for each sensor in each unit to normalize CSAM
measurements toNCore monitor results 26
Table 3-1. Summary of sampling locations and CSAM units, including sampling times, data flags,
and summary statistics forNCh, PM2.5, T, andRH 29
VI
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List of Figures
Figure 1-1. Map of the Ironbound community 3
Figure 1-2. Images of a railway (top) and industrial facilities (bottom) in the Ironbound
Community 4
Figure 2-1. The inside of the CSAM and its separate components 11
Figure 2-2. CSAM unit assembled with weather shielding, tripod, and battery case 12
Figure 2-3. Four CSAM samplers were deployed on the roof of NJDEP's NCore station at the
Clinton Avenue Firehouse in Newark, NJ 20
Figure 2-4. CSAM/NCore Collocation Study Particulates 21
Figure 2-5. CSAM/NCore Collocation Study NO2 22
Figure 2-6. CSAM/NCore Collocation Study Relative Humidity 23
Figure 2-7. CSAM/NCore Collocation Study Temperature 24
Figure 2-8. Example regressions from one day (04/12/2015) of the collocation 25
Figure 2-9. Deployment Plan - Location # (Sampling Days) 27
Figure 3-1. Average PM2.5 30
Figure 3-2. Temporal measurements for Location 9 and 7, representing the least and greatest
average PM2.5 measurements, respectively 31
Figure 3-3. Average NO2 32
Figure 3-4. Temporal measurements for Location 19 and 1, representing the least and greatest
average NO2 measurements, respectively 33
vn
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Acronyms and Abbreviations
ACE Air, Climate, and Energy Program
AC alternating current
CAG community action group
CARE Community Action for a Renewed Environment
CSAM Citizen Science Air Monitor
°C degrees Celsius
DC direct current
EJ Environmental Justice
EPA Environmental Protection Agency
FEM Federal Equivalent Method
FDMS Filter Dynamics Measurement System
FRM Federal Reference Method
GB gigabyte
ICC Ironbound Community Corporation
kg kilograms
1pm liters per minute
Li-ion lithium ion
m meters
NAAQS National Ambient Air Quality Standards
NCore National Core
NEMA National Electrical Manufacturers Association
NJDEP New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection
NO2 nitrogen dioxide
ORD Office of Research and Development
Os ozone
PM particulate matter
PM2.5 fine particulate matter
ppb parts per billion
QA Quality Assurance
QAPP Quality Assurance Project Plan
RARE Regional Applied Research Effort
RH relative humidity
viii
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SCC sharp cut cyclone
SD secure digital
T temperature
TEOM Tapered Element Oscillating Microbalance
|ig/m3 micrograms per cubic meter
|im micrometers
USB Universal Serial Bus
V volt
IX
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Executive Summary
Background
The Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) mission is to protect human health and the
environment. To move toward achieving this goal, EPA is facilitating identification of potential
environmental concerns, particularly in vulnerable communities. This includes actively supporting
citizen science projects and providing communities with the information and assistance they need
to conduct their own air pollution monitoring efforts. The Air Sensor Toolbox for Citizen
Scientists1 was developed as a resource to meet stakeholder needs. Examples of materials
developed for the Toolbox and ultimately pilot tested in the Ironbound Community in Newark,
New Jersey are reported here. The Air Sensor Toolbox for Citizen Scientists is designed as an
online resource that provides information and guidance on new, low-cost compact technologies
used for measuring air quality. The Toolbox features resources developed by EPA researchers that
can be used by citizens to effectively collect, analyze, interpret, and communicate air quality data.
The resources include information about sampling methods, how to calibrate and validate
monitors, options for measuring air quality, data interpretation guidelines, and low-cost sensor
performance information. This Regional Applied Research Effort (RARE) project provided an
opportunity for the Office of Research and Development (ORD) to work collaboratively with EPA
Region 2 to provide the Ironbound Community with a "Toolbox" specific for community-based
participatory environmental monitoring in their community.
Study Objectives
This collaboration provided for community-based participatory environmental monitoring
of the paniculate matter size fraction 2.5 micron (PIVb.s) and gaseous nitrogen dioxide (NCh), as
pollutants chosen jointly by the ORD, Region 2, and the Ironbound Community using an
environmental sensor pod designed by ORD for the particular needs of the community. ORD
provided technical commentary on the general research study plans developed by the Ironbound
Community/Region 2 and provided data analysis expertise concerning data summarization options
ultimately shared with the community. The primary objective of this effort was to develop the
approach (Toolbox) needed to support such activities and ensure its success. The ultimate goal of
these cumulative efforts was the estimation of local pollution levels by the efforts of citizen
scientists and determination of the lessons learned associated with the use of a low-cost sensor pod
for environmental monitoring.
Methods
Scientists worked closely with the Ironbound Community Corporation (ICC) to
• Jointly develop a study design to monitor air quality;
• Assist the community in selecting pollutants to monitor;
• Provide novel environmental sensors, in-person technical training, and written
http://www2.epa.gov/air-research/air-sensor-toolbox-citizen-scientists-resources
x
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directions for sensor use;
Establish quality assurance procedures needed to ensure high yield of useable
data;
Assist with establishment of data analysis tools, selection of data summarization
tools, and technical expertise in presenting air quality data summaries to meet the
needs of the general public.
Results
An extensive dataset containing spatially and temporally resolved air quality measurements
collected from four portable sensor pods incorporating PIVh.s and NO2 sensors was developed as a
community asset. Working in concert with ORD and Region 2 partners, the sensor pods were
collocated with Federal Equivalent Method (FEM) monitors under ambient monitoring conditions.
Regression algorithms from collocated reference comparisons were used to establish a normalized
data set for all measures and time points. The sensor pods operated by citizen scientists following
only a day of hands-on training provided for extensive air quality monitoring to be performed in
numerous citizen-selected locations throughout a wide area of the Ironbound Community. The
extensive data collections, in concert with quality assurance procedures of the effort, ensured data
of sufficient depth and value were available to inform the community about spatial and temporal
variability of the pollutants of interest. Local pollutant concentrations were then compared to other
settings as part of EPA's effort to raise community awareness of key data findings. In total, the
data provided for an improved upon knowledge base concerning estimates of PIVb.s and NO2
concentrations for the Ironbound Community.
Conclusion
EPA aims to address environmental health concerns of vulnerable populations in its
research programs, and integrating community-based citizen science efforts is a major goal of the
Agency. The Air Sensor Toolbox's technical resources developed for the Ironbound Community
represent an example for use by other communities across the country in developing their own air
monitoring programs in areas where pollution is a concern. As such, the pilot effort provided EPA
an opportunity to work directly with a highly motived citizen science organization, develop a
collaboratively agreed upon research plan, and introduce advanced technology to the citizen
scientists to meet their needs. The ICC pilot project provided useful lessons in how to improve
coordination between the Agency and communities, the types of tools and technologies needed to
assist communities, and how the lessons learned from this pilot study might be applied to future
efforts.
XI
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1.0 Introduction
There exists a strong desire by the general public to collect environmental data of
importance to their family or community2'3. This desire is driven by a wide variety of factors,
including concerns citizens have about known or perceived local pollution sources. The recent
introduction of lower cost environmental monitors and sensors into the public domain has
increased citizens' awareness of tools that may be available which would give them the
opportunity to collect environmental data for their own use4'5'6'7. However, most citizens do not
have the technical training to operate environmental monitors with a great deal of understanding
on the proper procedures8'9, thwarting citizens from collecting environmental data. In addition,
most of the lower cost environmental monitors that citizens would obtain for their use have not
been evaluated for their performance characteristics so that the data obtained by such devices have
a high probability of being less than adequate. It is the desire of the Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA) to promote citizen involvement in areas associated with environmental education
and awareness. It is also EPA's desire to investigate sensor technologies and to determine their
usefulness for a wide variety of potential applications10'11. The project reported here has helped
EPA achieve both of these desires by developing a framework and tools for citizens in a select
community to participate in environmental monitoring using technologies to which they previously
did not have access.
EPA's Office of Research and Development (ORD) as part of its Air, Climate, and Energy
(ACE) program area on emerging technologies (EM-3), has ongoing research involving a wide
array of emerging technologies and their application to solving complex environmental research.
2 McKinley, Duncan C., et al. "Investing in citizen science can improve natural resource management and
environmental protection." Issues in Ecology 19 (2015).
3 Dickinson, J.L. and R. Bonney (Eds.). 2012. Citizen Science: Public Participation in Environmental Research.
Cornell University Press, Ithaca.
4 The Changing Paradigm of Air Pollution Monitoring. Emily G. Snyder, Timothy H. Watkins, Paul A Solomon,
Eben D. Thoma, Ronald W. Williams, Gayle S. W. Hagler, David Shelow, David A. Hindin, Vasu J. Kilaru, and Peter
W. Preuss. Environmental Science & Technology 2013 47 (20), I 1369-1 1377
5 Kaufman, A.; Brown, A.; Barzyk, T.; Williams, R. The Citizen Science Toolbox: Air Sensor Technology Resources.
EM, September 2014, 48-49.
6 Preuss, P. and French, R. A Sensor World. EM, January 2014, 20-24.
7 White, R.M.; Paprotny, I.; Doering, F.; Cascio, W.E.; Solomon, P.A.; Gundel, L.A. Sensors and 'Apps' for
Community-Based Atmospheric Modeling. EM, May 2012, 36-41.
8 Williams, R.; Watkins, T; Long, R. Low-Cost Sensor Calibration Options. EM, January 2014, 10-15.
9 Williams, R., Vasu Kilaru, E. Snyder, A Kaufman, T. Dye, A. Rutter, A. Russell, and H. Hafner. Air Sensor
Guidebook. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, DC, EPA/600/R-I4/I59 (NTIS PB20I5-I006IO),
2014.
10 EPA's Air Sensor Toolbox for Citizen Scientists: http://www.epa.gov/air-research/air-sensor-toolbox-citizen-
scientists.
1' EPA's Draft Roadmap for Next Generation Air Monitoring: http://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2014-
09/documents/roadmap-201 30308.pdf.
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This includes development and evaluation of select environmental sensors as well as their
integration into select research opportunities that better define their capabilities to meet a wide
variety of monitoring needs12.
EPA Region 2 had a desire to facilitate community-based participatory environmental
monitoring associated with the Ironbound Community as an opportunity to establish successful
practices associated with such efforts. EPA Region 2 has an established Citizen Science Program
designed to help engage and empower communities to collect their own data and advocate for their
own environmental concerns. These efforts are focused on assisting Citizen Science groups,
particularly those in Environmental Justice (EJ) communities, by providing them with tools and
technical guidance to help promote and advance needed air-monitoring projects. Citizen Science
projects have been remarkably successful and contributions from citizen scientists have become a
developing tool for expanding scientific knowledge and literacy, especially for disenfranchised EJ
communities. Region 2 support to the Ironbound project included project management, assistance
with site selection, assistance with quality assurance project plan (QAPP) development and review,
equipment calibration and modification, community volunteer training, assistance with equipment
deployment, equipment collocation with State reference monitors, and equipment repair.
EPA's ORD collaborated with EPA Region 2 and the Ironbound Community Corporation
(ICC) in this project funded through the Regional Applied Research Effort (RARE) Program.
RARE projects are designed to respond to high-priority research needs, address a wide variety of
environmental issues, and foster interaction between EPA regions and the ORD13. This specific
RARE project included direct community involvement, with a focus on citizen science and
community-based air monitoring.
1.1 Ironbound Community
The Ironbound Community is comprised of about 50,000 residents, the majority of which
are minorities. Citizens in this northeast area of New Jersey live in a community potentially
impacted by a wide variety of environmental pollution sources. The Ironbound Community has an
established history and interest in conducting limited environmental monitoring campaigns but is
lacking technical expertise and equipment to perform environmental monitoring related to some
of their ongoing concerns14'15. Many of the residents suffer from both poverty and living in close
proximity to industry, combined with the impacts of transportation arteries, such as highways and
rail lines, that further add to the burden of pollution on local residents. It is reported that 25% of
the children living in this community suffer from asthma, three times the state average16. Figure
12 EPA's Air Research Web Page: http://www.epa.gov/air-research.
13 https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2015-10/documents/rare factsheet 102015.pdf
14 https://sites.google.com/a/ironboundcc.org/ironboundcare/
15 http://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2015-
03/documents/citizen science toolbox ironbound community fact sheet.pdf
16 Presentation: Community Based Participatory Research: Newark, NJ. Molly Greenberg, Ironbound Community
Corporation: http://www3.epa.gov/citizenscience/NJ/2b-Greenberg-AirMonHealthSurvey.pdf.
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1-1 shows the location of the Ironbound Community in relation to the Newark Liberty Airport, the
Port of Newark and the NCore Reference Monitor Station.
The community is aware that high densities of roadways and industrial operations might
lead to exposure to a variety of airborne pollutants, such as nitrogen oxides, sulfur oxides,
particulate matter, and air toxics. Pollution sources often tend to be concentrated in low-income
urban areas because of urban land use practices. The community is concerned about the health
consequences of poor air quality, including high disease rates for respiratory and cardiovascular
conditions and potentially cancer16 above4.
Newark ^
Univetsily Museum ~
Heights
i Lincoln
l°lt\n Park West Jersey City
NCore Reference
, Monitor Station
** '" for '
Newark Airport
Port of Newark
rk Bay D[ypflri(
/-^ V^y
W 6th SI ESthSI
Map data ©2013 Google - Edit in Ooogle Map Mah<
Figure 1-1. Map of the Ironbound Community.
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Figure 1-2. Images of a railway (top) and industrial facilities (bottom) in the Ironbound Community.
1.2 Citizen Science and Air Monitoring
The term 'citizen science' refers to the collection and analysis of data by members of the
general public, typically as part of a collaborative project with professional scientists. Citizen
science engages people in decision making processes, promotes collaboration, brings fresh
perspectives into decision making, fosters environmental stewardship, spreads knowledge,
answers local community questions of concern, incorporates local and traditional knowledge,
builds awareness of an organization's mission, improves science literacy, and builds expertise17.
Communities are increasingly becoming involved in citizen science projects that involve open
collaboration, address real-world problems, identify research questions, collect and analyze data,
interpret results, make new discoveries, develop technologies and applications, and solve complex
problems. Interest in this area is extremely high with a recent event sponsored by the EPA detailing
a wide range of environmental issues citizens were trying to address through their own efforts18.
17 McKinley, Duncan C., et al. "Investing in citizen science can improve natural resource management and
environmental protection." Issues in Ecology 19 (2015).
18 Community Air Monitoring Training: A Glimpse into EPA's Air Sensor Toolbox: http://www.epa.gov/air-
research/communitv-air-monitoring-training.
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Air quality monitoring represents a very high technical hurdle. This is true not just for
professional scientists but also for citizen scientists. While the professional title of the individual
responsible for conducting such efforts might change, the basic requirements needed to ensure
such efforts are being done properly cannot change. Simply put, data collected of poor quality only
complicates the goal of assessing environmental conditions. Poor quality data presented to others
(such as a governing authority, industrial concern, etc.) has the unintended consequences of
ultimately reflecting negatively on the presenting organization and loss of credibility in the
discussion being voiced.
As documented in the EPA's Air Sensor Guidebook19, not only does one need to have
extensive knowledge of the air pollutants of interest to design a monitoring strategy, the strategy
must be sophisticated enough to ensure that the proper technology is being applied and that data
quality assurance procedures are in place to meet data quality objectives. While this sounds like
an almost unachievable barrier, this project sought to address those issues directly. The first step
in this pilot project was to provide air quality training to the citizen scientists who led the effort.
Second, the citizen scientists were provided advanced air quality instrumentation using low cost
sensor components assembled by the EPA and known to operate in a well-characterized fashion.
Last, EPA (ORD, Region 2) and the citizen scientists together defined quality assurance objectives
targets, developed a QAPP, and then assessed the raw data versus acceptance criteria to develop a
useable database for project summarization. ORD provided expertise in review, analysis, and
summaries of the data collected by the ICC. Table 1-1 summarizes each groups' objectives for the
project.
Table 1-1. Project Objectives.
Group
ICC
EPA
Region 2
EPA
ORD
Objectives
1.
2.
3.
1.
2.
3.
1.
2.
Characterize near-road/near-source high-concentration areas
Determine potential impact on nearby residences (including multi-level housing)
Investigate locations of multi -level (roadways + elevated rail) sources
Develop 'how-to' documentation
Examine potential for sensor loan program for public use
Use community validated documentation for local Air Sensor Toolbox
Develop Air Sensor Toolbox for Citizen Scientists - sensor 'how-to'
documentation, community-based participation, developing a research
interpreting measurements, making decisions
Explain uncertainty and variability, benefits and limitations
plan,
19 Williams, R., Vasu Kilaru, E. Snyder, A Kaufman, T. Dye, A. Rutter, A. Russell, and H. Hafner. Air Sensor
Guidebook. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, DC, EPA/600/R-I4/I59 (NTIS PB20I5-I006IO),
2014.
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2.0 Materials and Methods
ORD collaborated with Region 2 and the ICC on communicating the goals of the project
to all parties as it was initiated and conducted. The project took advantage of information gained
from ORD's ACE sensor evaluation research task (ACE i43)20>21>22 with respect to a knowledge
base of applicable low cost sensors to be used, the state of technology on energy systems to power
the sensor pod, and data storage/data recovery components that would minimize citizen scientist
concerns about technical competency to handle such duties. Specific aspects of these challenges
are defined in depth in Section 2.2. Select environmental monitoring was performed by the ICC
community members, with the resulting data visualized using Microsoft Excel. A local ICC liaison
was identified as the primary point of contact between ORD, Region 2, and the ICC. The primary
focus of the work was on environmental education and providing the ICC first-hand experience in
using low cost sensors as a means to investigate air pollutant sources of concern.
ORD provided four sets of customized air pollution sensors after consulting with the ICC
on their source pollutants of greatest concern. Standard operating procedures developed to meet
citizen science technical comprehension for the device were created, as well as quality assurance
guidelines regarding sensor use and data validation. The latter was not the traditional QAPP used
by EPA, since ORD was not involved in the direct collection of environmental measures, but
rather, a Region 2-developed quality assurance guidance document aimed toward citizen science
based activities. Region 2's QAPP guidance was specifically aimed at the Region's Citizen
Science program. It complies with EPA Quality Assurance (QA) requirements, but streamlines
existing guidance, using a template format, and includes a citizen science project example23. This
document has utility far beyond the normal QAPP, and provides greater benefit to all parties.
The ICC/Region 2, in consultation with ORD, developed a research plan (study design)
involving the citizen scientist monitoring approach. The ICC/Region 2 implemented the data
collection strategy as defined directly above. This involved a multi-seasonal approach (February
through July 2015). No personal monitoring or residential indoor monitoring was performed as
per the fully agreed-upon partner study design.
20 Williams, R., R. Long, M. Beaver, A. Kaufman, F. Zeiger, M. Heimbinder, I. Hang, R. Yap, B. Acharya, B. Ginwald,
K. Kupcho, S. Robinson, O. Zaouak, B. Aubert, M. Hannigan, R. Piedrahita, N. Masson, B. Moran, M. Rook, P.
Heppner, C. Cogar, N. Nikzad, and W. Griswold. Sensor Evaluation Report. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency,
Washington, DC, EPA/600/R-I4/I43 (NTIS PB20I5-I006I I), 2014.
21 Williams, R., A Kaufman, and S. Garvey. Next Generation Air Monitoring (NGAM) VOC Sensor Evaluation Report.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, DC, EPA/600/R-1 S/122 (NTIS PB2015-1051 33), 2015.
22 Williams, R., A. Kaufman, T. Hanley, J. Rice, and S. Garvey. Evaluation of Field-deployed Low Cost PM Sensors.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, DC, EPA/600/R-14/464 (NTIS PB 2015-102104), 2014.
23 http://www3.epa.gov/region02/citizenscience/pdf/citsci_air_attach_b_form.pdf
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2.1 Pollutants of Interest
The Ironbound community was interested in learning more about the pollution potentially
caused by near-road sources. Therefore, ORD suggested that the two best pollutants to measure
based on their particular needs, study resources, and available low cost sensor technologies, were
fine paniculate matter (PIVb.s) and nitrogen dioxide (NCh).
PM consists of particles of various sizes such as soot, smoke, dirt, and dust. These particles
are often generated and released into the air from combustion sources such as power plants,
automobiles, and fires, along with industrial and agricultural processes. PM can adversely affect
breathing and aggravate respiratory and cardiovascular conditions, with the smallest particles
posing the greatest health risk. PM also contributes to atmospheric haze that reduces visibility. PM
data values and discussion mentioned throughout the remainder of this report refers explicitly to
the PM2.5 size fraction. PM2.5 is a National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) criteria air
pollutant that states are required to monitor24.
NO2 is a highly reactive gas that can irritate the lungs and cause bronchitis, pneumonia,
and other respiratory problems. NO2 is also a NAAQS criteria pollutant that states are required to
monitor24. NO2 pollution is both man-made and naturally occurring. It occurs naturally as a result
of atmospheric processes. It also forms from fuel combustion and forms quickly from automobile
emissions. Therefore, significant increases in NO2 concentrations are often found near major
roadways. Power plants and other industrial processes also emit NO2. Table 2-1 describes source
types and health effects for PM2.5 and NO2. More information about these air pollutants are
reported elsewhere25.
Table 2-1. Pollutants, source types, and health effects.
Pollutant
Source Types
Health Effects
PM2.5
Combustion activities (motor
vehicles, coal power plants,
wood burning, etc.)
Certain industrial processes
• Nonfatal heart attacks
• Irregular heartbeat
• Aggravated asthma
• Decreased lung function
• Respiratory symptoms such as irritation of
the airways, coughing, or difficulty breathing
• People with heart or lung diseases, children,
and older adults are the most likely to be
affected
NO2
Combustion activities,
especially from vehicles;
higher near roadways
1 Adverse respiratory effects
1 Airway inflammation in healthy people
1 Increased respiratory symptoms in people
with asthma
24 http://www3.epa.gov/ttn/naaqs/criteria.html
25 http://www.epa.gov/airquality/urbanair/
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2.2 Citizen Science Air Monitor (CSAM)
Early discussions with the ICC and their desire to conduct citizen science air quality
monitoring resulted in EPA developing the low cost sensor pod for the effort. Specific needs are
defined in Table 2-2.
Table 2-2. CSAM design requirements.
Specification
Requirement
Design
Response
Key Features
Continuous PM2.5
Thermo
DataRam 1200
Nephelometer, 1
second time
averaging
capable
Well established light scattering sensor with
capability to operate with an inline 2.5-
micrometer (|im) cyclone size selective inlet.
The modified version of the SKC AirCheck
Model 52 provided needed 1.5 liter per
minute (1pm) intake flow rate26'27.
Continuous NO2
Cairpol CairClip
NC-2/ozone (O3)
Universal Serial
Bus (USB)
sensor
Capabilities previously established in ORD-
based chamber evaluations28. A low volume
teflon adapter was affixed to the inlet of the
device to allow for calibration and intake
snorkel connections.
Portable but rugged
Modular features
National Electrical Manufacturers
Association (NEMA) box configurations
separately housed the sensor pod and battery
supply that were connected via cable for ease
of use and transport. A modified aluminum
tripod stand was used to support air intakes at
1 meter above the base with simple fasteners
for set-up/take down ease of use.
26 Williams, R., Rea, A., Vette, A., Croghan C, Whitaker, D., Wilson, H., Stevens, C, McDow, S., Burke, J., Fortmann,
R., Sheldon, L, Thornburg, J., Phillips, M., Lawless, P., Rodes, C., Daughtrey, H. The design and field implementation
of the Detroit Exposure and Aerosol Research Study (DEARS). Journal of Exposure Science and Environmental
Epidemiology, 19: 643-659 (2009).
27 Reed, C.H., Rea, A, Zufall, M., Burke, J., Williams, R., Suggs, J., Walsh, D., Kwok, R., and Sheldon, L. Use of a
continuous nephelometerto measure personal exposure to particles during the U.S. EPA Baltimore and Fresno panel
studies. Journal of the Air and Waste Management Association, 50:1 125-1 I 32 (2000).
28 Williams, R., R. Long, M. Beaver, A. Kaufman, F. Zeiger, M. Heimbinder, I. Hang, R. Yap, B. Acharya, B. Ginwald,
K. Kupcho, S. Robinson, O. Zaouak, B. Aubert, M. Hannigan, R. Piedrahita, N. Masson, B. Moran, M. Rook, P.
Heppner, C. Cogar, N. Nikzad, and W. Griswold. Sensor Evaluation Report. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency,
Washington, DC, EPA/600/R-I4/I43 (NTIS PB20I5-I006I I), 2014.
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Specification
Requirement
Design
Response
Key Features
Rechargeable battery and
land power options
sufficient for 7 days
unattended full-time
operation
12 volt (V)
lithium-ion (Li-
ion) battery pack
and equally
capable
alternating
current (AC)
(115V)
connection
options
The selected Li-ion battery pack provided for
9 days non-attended operational cycles.
Simple plug-in recharge features. AC power
linkages used transformed 115V plug-in
adapters. Assembled units required
professional electrical safety review and
approval for design features and non-
professional operation.
Snorkel options
for air intakes
Small diameter
(< 30 second
flow duration)
Teflon intake
lines with direct
connection to
PM2.5 and NO2
sensors
Easy on/off non-reactive transfer lines
(tubing) allowed direct calibration
sensor and sampling distances up to 0.7
meters (m) from CSAM unit. Tubing provided
means for through window unit deployment.
Precipitation resistant
NEMA
encasement with
grommet
features for
protruding
components
NEMA casement provided weather resistant
close and lock mechanism allowing
deployment in rain/snow. Hinged rain cover
provided secondary precipitation protection
above CSAM unit during severe weather
events when interior electronics might be
exposed. Rubber gaskets on hinged interior
access door provided wind-blown
precipitation protection. Aluminum materials
(NEMA/tripods/rain shields) reduced overall
unit mass and were rust resistant.
Internal data storage
8 gigabyte (GB)
secure digital
(SD) card
Removable SD card provided for easy data
recovery following each event. Used card
was returned to study office while
replacement card was inserted into slot.
CSAM indicator lights illuminated when SD
card was properly inserted to avoid data loss
to missing memory card.
Ease of use data
recovery application
Excel executable
An Excel macro developed specifically for
the CSAM provided for minimal technical
training.
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Specification
Requirement
Design
Response
Key Features
Simple on/off operation
Keyed on/off
switch
Removable key provided for security of
device. Movement to off position stopped
data collections. Movement to on position
reinitialized all sensors and data storage
time stamps for new data run.
Ease of use calibration
features
Excel macro
with updatable
cells for sensor
response values
Capable of being updated with new
calibration inputs.
The Citizen Science Air Monitor (CSAM) is an air monitoring system designed for
measuring PM2.5 and NO2 pollutants simultaneously, and is capable of producing representative
data following calibration and quality assurance review. It is not recognized as a Federal Reference
Method/Federal Equivalent Method (FRM/FEM) reference monitor used for regulatory
monitoring to assess attainment. It represents a device capable of producing representative data
following calibration and quality assurance review.
This self-contained system consists of a CairPol CairClip NO2 sensor, a Thermo Scientific
personal DataRAM PM2.5 monitor, and a Honeywell temperature (T) and relative humidity (RH)
sensor (HIH-4602-C). The CSAM's design provides for easy data retrieval from all three devices
in a single step through a key-lock access door29'30. The sensors are powered by rechargeable
lithium ion phosphate batteries (Stark Power 12V 20Amp-Hour Part number SP-12V20-EP),
which were capable of maintaining nominal 12 volt (V) power for a week in the field. Data were
stored on a secure digital (SD) card, which were then uploaded to a personal computer and viewed
via a pre-designed Microsoft Excel macro also stored on the SD card. Electrical safety review of
all components by a licensed institution (Intertek. 1950 Evergreen Blvd Suite 100. Duluth GA,
30096. 679-775-2400) insured that the basic design of the CSAM was deemed intrinsically safe
when operated as per EPA operating guidelines. Figure 2-1 shows the inside of the CSAM and its
separate components. Figure 2-2 shows a CSAM unit assembled with tripod, weather shielding,
and battery case.
While the CSAM achieved its primary design specifications as to being capable of
operation with minimal technical training under a wide variety of deployment conditions for long
periods of time (> 7 days unattended), such specifications did not necessarily equate to a unit being
lightweight and easily transported under all conditions. The CSAM had a mass of ~ 7 kg, its
attachable battery box had a mass of ~ 10 kilograms (kg), and its tripod stand had a mass of ~ 9
29 Williams, R.W., T. M. Barzyk, and A. Kaufman. Citizen Science Air Monitor (CSAM) Quality Assurance Guidelines.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, DC, EPA/600/R-15/008, 2015.
30 Williams, R., T. Barzyk, and A. Kaufman. Citizen Science Air Monitor (CSAM) Operating Procedures. U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, DC, EPA/600/R-15/051, 2015.
10
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kg. While the individual or combined mass of all CSAM components was not excessive for normal
research instrumentation EPA research teams often encounter with field monitoring equipment, it
did represent a challenge to some of the citizen scientists who participated in such activities,
especially when units had to be secured on rooftops or other non-ground-based locations. Simpler
(smaller/lighter) monitoring devices might have been developed, but as of the initiation of this
project, especially with respect to the power requirements, the selected components offered the
best compromise on ease of use, established performance features with true PIVb.s size
fractionation, calibration capability, and long unattended operational periods.
ArduinoUno
micro-
processor
Figure 2-1. The inside of the CSAM and its separate components.
11
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Rainshield
CSAM
Tripod
Battery Box
Figure 2-2. CSAM unit assembled with weather shielding, tripod, and battery case.
The CSAM-PM component measures real-time PM2.5 in micrograms per cubic meter
(ug/m3) using a Thermo Scientific personal DataRAM nephelometer, a device that uses light to
measure the concentration of suspended particles in a liquid or gas. A modified SKC AirChek 52
personal sampling pump draws air into the nephelometer. Modifications consisted of removing its
battery pack and powering it directly from the CSAM energy harness. The nephelometer used a
BGI sharp-cut cyclone (SCC) inlet (SCC 1.062), which excluded particles above a mean
aerodynamic diameter greater than 2.5 microns, allowing only "fine" particles (PM2.s) to be
sampled. The CSAM-PM had a detection limit of 0.1 ug/m3.
CSAM measurements of NO2 were made using a CairPol CairClip NO2 sensor31. The
CairClip used a gas-specific inlet filter combined with dynamic air sampling in an integrated
system to measure real-time gas concentration in parts per billion (ppb). The CSAM- NO2 unit's
detection limit (the lowest concentration the instrument was likely to detect) was approximately 5
ppb NO2 as determined in a previous EPA research study32. The sensor was "tuned" by the
manufacturer to be more responsive to NO2, as compared to other oxides such as Cb. Even so, the
31 http://www.cairpol.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=41 <emid= 156&lang=en
32 Williams, R., R. Long, M. Beaver, A. Kaufman, F. Zeiger, M. Heimbinder, I. Hang, R. Yap, B. Acharya, B. Ginwald,
K. Kupcho, S. Robinson, O. Zaouak, B. Aubert, M. Hannigan, R. Piedrahita, N. Masson, B. Moran, M. Rook, P.
Heppner, C. Cogar, N. Nikzad, and W. Griswold. Sensor Evaluation Report. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency,
Washington, DC, EPA/600/R-I4/I43 (NTIS PB20I5-I006I I), 2014.
12
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output of the device under field conditions might have potentially represented a cumulative
response to such pollutants to some unknown degree. Field experience in other studies has
indicated that simple subtraction of the non-wanted 63 response has sometimes yielded excellent
agreement of the NO2 estimates versus Federal Reference Methods (FRMs)33. For the present
study conducted during mostly winter-spring seasonal periods where typical Cb concentrations are
historically well below 10 ppb in the study area, results would indicate minimal 63 impact on data
quality for the NO2 measurements. Collocated CSAM versus reference monitor agreement as
reported in the Results section are provided to support the selection of this particular NO2 sensor.
The CSAM also contained a Honeywell temperature and RH sensor (HIH-4602-C).
Temperature (°C) and RH (% at °C) data were recorded along with the PM2.5 and NO2
concentration data. The recommended operating ranges for temperature and RH were 0-40 °C
(32-104 °F) and 0-90% RH (with no formation of water droplets), respectively. These
measurements were taken in-line with the PM2.5 air monitoring components. Table 2-3 summarizes
measurement units reported by each CSAM component.
Table 2-3. Measurement units reported by each CSAM component.
Measurement
PM2.5 concentration
NO2 concentration
Temperature
Relative humidity (RH)
Reporting Unit
Micrograms per cubic
meter (|ig/m3)
Parts per billion (ppb)
Degrees Celsius (°C)
Percent (%) at °C
It should be noted that a manufacturing issue with the SKC pump occurred that had not been
previously reported by SKC. Even though new pumps were integrated into the CSAM units, which
should have provided for thousands of hours of nominal performance, a new "metallic-bearing
lubricant" had been applied to the primary motor of the pumps. It was reported to EPA that a new
provider of these pump components had not reported to SKC the inclusion of metallic-bearing
materials as part of the manufacturing process. This metallic lubricant appeared to interfere with
the electronic control circuits of the pumps after they had been operating for a few days,
interrupting the ability of the units to maintain pre-established flow rates, as evidenced by wild
fluctuation of flow with no operator involvement or adjustment of the set point potentiometer.
Table 2-4 describes pump replacement history.
1 http://www.epa.gov/air-research/sensor-technology-state-science
13
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Table 2-4. CSAM pump replacement history.
CSAM Pump Replacement History
CSAM #1
100%
uptime
CSAM #2
replaced
1/27/15
replaced
4/14/15
CSAM #3
replaced
1/27/15
CSAM #4
replaced
3/10/15
Some damage to the CSAMs occurred while they were in transit from their manufacturing
location in Research Triangle Park, NC to the EPA Edison New Jersey office. As a result, pelican
cases were purchased and used to ensure safety and protection during transport. A wooden base
was designed to secure the tripod. The citizen scientists setting up and monitoring the CSAMs at
field locations were trained on how to change and recharge the CSAM's battery, set up the unit
properly at its outdoor or indoor location, initiate data collection, and retrieve and process the data.
The CSAM is designed to run for one week (continuously for 7 days) on a fully charged battery.
Therefore, the operator visited the test site at least once a week to replace and/or recharge the
battery, download data, and inspect the unit's functionality.
2.3 Technical Training
ORD scientists provided a day-long technical training session to the ICC to demonstrate
the proper use and maintenance of the CSAM units. The first half of the training involved a project
overview followed by a demonstration of how to assemble the CSAM units. The project overview
included discussion of the pollutants measured, data considerations related to the benefits and
limitations of the sensors, and information about the context of measurements, including sources,
sites, potential exposures, and interpretation. During the assembly example, ORD scientists
demonstrated how a CSAM would be assembled in the field. They indicated the location, features,
and specific purpose of each CSAM internal component and explained how the components work
together to measure air quality. The stand, rain shield and battery box were placed in the correct
orientation for field operation. Next, the CSAM cover was removed and each internal component
was named and described. Then, the electrical input connector was displayed, including
information on how to use either the battery connection or the alternating current/direct current
(AC/DC) adapter. They emplasized battery and electrical safety measures, including the
importance of users ridding themselves of static electricity by making contact with a grounded
component of the monitoring stand before touching the internal components. The second half of
the training provided the ICC staff and volunteers a hands-on opportunity to work as teams to
disassemble and reassemble the four units on display, giving them a sound understanding of proper
assembly through a complete cycle of start-up, take down, and data recovery. ORD scientists
provided guidance and feedback during this process. Once units were reassembled, the training
proceeded to demonstrate the process of data collection, including how to transfer datasets via a
removable SD card plugged into a personal computer. Trainees were instructed on proper
techniques for transporting and moving the units and best practices for siting units for proper
14
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function and data collection. Lastly, ORD trainers explained how to troubleshoot in case of
disturbances in the unit's operation, cold weather events, or other potential errors. Refer to
Appendix A, Attachment D for more information.
2.4 Quality Assurance/Quality Control
There were two quality assurance project plans (QAPPs) developed for this project, one
citizen science QAPP (i.e., 'How-To' document) that has the potential of being easily transferable
to other locations and regions, and one project-specific QAPP (i.e., research design for the
Ironbound Community). The project specific QAPP used Region 2's streamlined QAPP template
specifically designed for citizen scientists. It included specifics such as monitoring locations,
maintenance schedule, accessibility, measurement duration per location, technology requirements,
and data responsibilities. Refer to Appendices A and B for more information.
Study QA procedures are detailed in Table 2-5 and include a comprehensive plan to assess
CSAM performance prior to the deployment and then repeatedly throughout.
15
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Table 2-5. Study QA features.
QA component
Responsible party
Specifics
Results
Outcome
Laboratory assessment
during fabrication
EPA contractor staff
examined NO2, PM2.5,
RH, temperature sensors
and active pumping
system laboratory and
calibrated all
components under
controlled conditions
over expected
operational range.
Response algorithms
were established and
embedded in Excel
executable file.
Direct in-line or
chamber challenge of
sensors by EPA
contractor staff using
approved operating
procedures and
reference materials (e.g.,
gases).
Linear range of NO2
device established (0 to
200 ppb), DataRam
algorithm correctly
reporting zero
concentration when
blank tested. RH and
temperature (T) sensors
established linear
response over full
manufacturer's range.
SKC pump produced
stable (precision error <
10% flow operation
from 0 to 4 1pm).
CSAM achieved
expected operational
requirements needed for
deployment goals
(range, linearity,
response features,
precision).
Pre-deployment audit
Region 2 EPA staff
examined all CSAMs
upon shipping receipt.
Repeated inline audits of
NO2 sensor response
using in-house gas
manifold under known
conditions. Team
established active
pumping system
precision.
NO2 gas manifold with
snorkel tube was used to
deliver challenge over 3
orders of magnitude
directly to CSAM.
Automated flow rate
monitors were used to
establish SKC pump
stability.
NO2 sensor were shown
to be linear over full
range. New response
algorithm inputs were
updated in Excel
executable file. Some
SKC pumps were shown
to exceed flow stability
requirements. Pumps
were recalibrated under
known test conditions
and in some cases
replaced if stability was
not achieved.
Shipping units to Region
2 offices from the ORD
laboratory resulted in
some failures of the
CSAMs (e.g., loose
components, disconnect
of hoses/electrical
unions). It was evident
that greater structural
integrity of certain
internal CSAM
components was needed
to ensure efficient
transport.
16
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Collocation with Federal
Equivalent Method
monitors
Weekly performance
audits
Region 2 and ICC
ICC
ICC, in concert with
EPA Region 2 staff,
collocated all 4 CSAM
units at the New Jersey
Department of
Environmental
Protection (NJDEP)'s
NCore station at the
Clinton Avenue
Firehouse in Newark,
NJ. Units were operated
for 7 continuous days.
Audit/calibration of
active pump system for
zero (blank) output pf
the DataRam and flow
rate stability at needed
set point.
Regression coefficients
were established
between each CSAM
unit and reference
measurements.
ICC reported
reoccurrence of flow
rate stability errors and
inability of some
CSAMs to hold their
flow rate set point.
Comparisons revealed
good to excellent
agreement with NO2
measurements with
PM2.5 comparisons more
variable. RH and
temperature sensors
revealed greater offset
from reference measures
for some of the
individual CSAMs.
Cumulative review of
the dataset as a whole
indicated failure of the
active pumping system
in some CSAMs was
occurring.
ORD and Region 2 staff
subsequently reviewed
SKC pump performance.
New lab audits were
performed on select
units indicating an issue
with the new pumps.
Direct conversation with
SKC revealed a new
manufacturing process
for this model pump had
been started which
ultimately resulted in the
poor performance we
observed. Ultimately, all
pumps were replaced by
17
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the end of the study, but
repeated failures prior to
establishment of the
reason impacted data
completeness.
Raw data review and
normalization
ICC and ORD
ICC developed data
collection logs
indicating operational
status of each unit for
each time period. ORD
summarily integrated
established time points
of data quality issues
pinpointed by ICC into
data exclusion schemes.
Region 2 and ORD
developed regression
normalization
algorithms following
collocation testing.
Data exclusion was
performed upon raw
data where pump failure
incidences were noted.
Regression algorithms
from collocated
reference comparisons
were used to establish
normalized data set for
all measures and time
points.
Normalization algorithm
revealed only minimal
"correction" of NO2 raw
data was needed while
multifold correction was
needed to normalize raw
PM2.5 estimates.
18
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2.5 Collocation and Sensor Calibration to Federal Stations
An initial performance audit/calibration of the CSAM sensors was performed following
their development (e.g., flow rate, linear response, zero air response). A summary inspection/re-
audit was performed by Region 2 (Edison, NJ) staff upon transfer of the CSAMs to their
possession. The four CSAM units were collocated by EPA Region 2 with monitors at the National
Core (NCore) site maintained by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection
(NJDEP). This site is part of the ambient air monitoring network in fulfillment of the National
Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) established by the U.S. EPA, and therefore must meet
federal requirements for performance. Air monitoring network sites are designed to measure
maximum pollutant concentrations, assess population exposure, determine the impact of major
pollution sources, measure background levels, determine the extent of regional pollutant transport,
and measure secondary impacts in rural areas.
The NCore station at the Newark Firehouse (Figure 2-3) includes monitors for both NO2
and PM2.5, and thus provided an opportunity to compare and calibrate the CSAMs with federally
validated and approved technologies. CSAM units ran continuously for approximately one week
(04/07/2015 - 04/14/2015). NCore monitors took continuous measurements of NO2 using a TECO
42i sampler, and continuous PM2.5 using an R&P 1400 TEOM (Tapered Element Oscillating
Microbalance)-FDMS (Filter Dynamics Measurement System).
Continuous measurements from the CSAM and NCore monitors were compared over time,
as displayed in Figures 2-4 through 2-7. Example output of timestamp comparison between
individual CSAM units and NCore measurements was conducted. Contemporaneous
measurements were plotted against each other to determine the degree of variance from a 1:1
agreement (i.e., perfect agreement is represented by a slope of 1 in the resulting regression
equations). While the CSAM units showed consistent relative agreement with the NCore monitors,
following trends, peaks, and troughs (especially NO2 measurements following calibration), there
was disagreement between absolute measures. Therefore, the regression equations were applied to
all CSAM measurements in order to correct for these discrepancies (more variability in agreement
between CSAM and NCore monitors were observed for PM2.5 measurements). Each CSAM unit
differed in its respective variance from the reference measurement, so a specific regression
equation was determined for each unit. These regression equations are shown in Table 2-6, and
unless otherwise noted, all measurement results include these corrections. Several large deviations
occurred during data collection due to pump failures in the CSAM units. These measurements
were disregarded from the regression analysis.
19
-------
Figure 2-3. Four CSAM samplers were deployed on the roof of NJDEP's NCore station at the Clinton
Avenue Firehouse in Newark, NJ.
20
-------
-10.00
4/7/15 12:00 AM
CSAM/NCoreCollocation Study-Particulates
5 Minute Averages (4/7-4/14,2015)
CSAMfllug/m3
CSAM*2ug/m3
CSAMS3ug/m3
CSAM*4ug/m3
NJDEP Newark Ncore Station
4/8/15 12:00 AM
4/9/15 12:00 AM
4/10/15 12:00 AM
4/11/15 12:00 AM
Time
4/12/15 12:00 AM
4/13/15 12:00 AM
4/14/15 12:00 AM
4/15/15 12:00 AM
Figure 2-4. CSAM/NCore Collocation Study Particulates.
21
-------
100.00
95.00
30.CO
85.00
80.00
75.00
70.00
65.00
60.00
55.00
3" 50.00
Q.
& 45.00
8 40.00
z
35.00
30.00
25.00
15.00
10.00
0.00
-5.00
-10.00
-15.00
4/7/1512:00 AM
-CSAMS1N02
-CSAM#2N02
CSAM#3NO2
-CSAM#4NOZ
-NJDEP Newark Ncore Station
I IV
CSAM/NCore Collocation Study - NO2
5 Minute Averaf es (4/7-4/14, 2015)
II'1 m
II Illl
Ill III Id
I /•
ifl 1
4/8/1512:00 AM 4/9/1512:00 AM 4/10/1512:00 AM 4/11/1512:00 AMI 4/12/1512:00 AM 4/13/1512:00 AM
Time
Figure 2-5. CSAM/NCore Collocation Study NO2.
4/14/1512 «0 AM
annual average
NO2 standard
4/15/1512:00 AM
22
-------
ICv.CD
CSAM/NCore Collocation Study - Relative Humidity
5 Minute Averages (4/7 - 4/14, 2015)
CSAM#1RH
CSAMS2RH
CSAMS3RH
CSAMS4RH
NJDEP Newark Ncore Station
-moo
4/7/15 12:00 AM
4/8/15 12*0 AM
4/9/15 12:00 AM
4/10/15 12100 AM 4/11/1512:00 AM 4/12/1512:00 AM
Time
Figure 2-6. CSAM/NCore Collocation Study Relative Humidity.
4/13/15 12:00 AM
4/14/15 12:00 AM
4/15/15 12:00 AM
23
-------
50.53
45.00
D.OO
-5.00
-10.00
4/7/15 12:00 AM
CSAM/NCore Collocation Study-Temperature
5 Minute Averages (4/7 - 4/14, 2015)
4/8/15 12:00 AM
4/9/1512:00 AM
4/10/15 12:00 AM
4/11/15 12:00 AM
Time
4/12/15 12:00 AM
4/13/15 12:00 AM
CSAM #1 Degrees C
CS AM #2 Degrees C
CSAM #3 Degrees C
— CS AM #4 Degrees C
NJDEP Newark Ncore Station
4/14/1512:00 AM 4/15/15 12:00 AM
Figure 2-7. CSAM/NCore Collocation Study Temperature.
24
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Regressions were based on the continuous, collocated measurements of the CSAM and
NCore monitors. Since pump failures affected the CSAM readings, results were separated by day
in order to identify time periods when both CSAM and NCore devices showed generally good
agreement in their temporal trends (i.e., to exclude erroneous data to the best of our abilities). An
example regression for 04/12/2015 is provided in Figure 2-8. The most ideal regressions equations
were identified for each CSAM, and the selected regression equations are shown in Table 2-6.
These equations were applied to all CSAM measurements in order to correct for sensor deviations
from the NCore units. This resulted in a normalization of data response from the individual CSAMs
in relation to collocated NCore monitors. Due to pump failure during collocation trials, we were
unable to develop an individual calibration for Unit 4. In its place, an average regression based
upon performance of Units 1 and 3 was applied for that particular unit.
Temp (deg C) U4 & 3 more vs. Temp (tteg C) FH
RH (%) U4 & 3 more vs. RH (%) FH
10 12 14
Temp (deg QfH
40
30
20
10
0
80
60
40
20
0
63
50
40
30
20
10-
0:
60
J8
|
CairClip (ppb) U4 & 3 more vs. N02 (ppb) FH
V-3-309-04518-X
R1:0.333 | .
ih^M^^
Y.3476-1.503'X
B": 0.948
V-.1.09Z-1.129-X
R^OiM
V , .9441 - 0.7S59-X
r'-:-r
20 30
NO2 (ppb) FH
pDR (^g/m3) U4 & 3 more vs. PM2.5-beta (ug/m3l) FH
-2.47999995
•2.48
-2,48000005
-2.4800001
40
30
20-
10-
0
A
—
i
t
V--24S-9-834.46-X
B'r.0.01
. 0.04096- 0.03241-X
-.
-1.275 1^0.005
-1.260 •
-1,285 j
-1.290-
•1.295
-1.300 1
5 10
PM2.5-beta(ug/m3UFH
Figure 2-8. Example regressions from one day (04/12/2015) of the collocation.
25
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Table 2-6. Regression equations selected for each sensor in each unit to normalize CSAM
measurements to NCore monitor results.
Ul
U2
U3
U4
Date/Time
R2 Value
Regression Equation
Date/Time
R2 Value
Regression Equation
Date/Time
R2 Value
Regression Equation
Date/Time
R2 Value
Regression Equation
T
4/13/2015
0.943
-6.697 + 1.888*X
4/13/2015
0.932
-10.37 +1.654*X
4/12/2015
0.916
-7.098 +2.212*X
4/13/2015
0.951
-12.25 + 1.865*X
RH
4/8/2015
0.982
-9.178 + 1.182*X
4/9/2015; 9AM-1L55PM
0.877
-43.89 +1.467*X
4/8/2015
0.982
-12.75 + 1.244*X
4/7/2015
0.977
-48.7+1.642*X
NO2
4/10/2015
0.776
-20.76 + 0.9267*X
4/10/2015
0.901
-5.144 +1.181*X
4/12/2015
0.948
3.876 +1.503*X
4/8/2015
0.618
1.178+1.033*X
PM25
4/1 1/2015; 12:15AM-
5:05AM
0.814
-20.69 + 3.112*X
4/11/2015; 12: 15AM-
5:05AM
0.760
-32.52 + 4.894*X
4/11/2015; 12: 15AM-
1:50AM
0.614
-73.04 + 4.882*X
N/A
N/A
-46.87 + 3.997*X<**>
'**' Representative average normalization response based upon collocation trials of Units 1 and 3
2.6 Deployment Plan
Site considerations for the four CSAM sensors included taking into account accessibility
for the community liaison or the community action group representative, consideration for
potential theft or vandalism, and meteorology. ICC had the full responsibility for site selection and
deployment to meet the agreed upon study design. Other considerations included proximity to
indoor (or other) sources that might influence the resulting outdoor air measurements. Examples
included efforts not to place monitors in close proximity to kitchen exhausts or building heating
system exhausts. Likewise, the study participants were trained to understand that tobacco smoke
and other combustion sources could have an impact on sensor readings. Therefore, since the goal
of the study was to understand outdoor concentrations of targeted pollutants, community members
sought out locations where such interferences would be excluded or minimized.
ICC worked with its community members to deploy all four CSAM units simultaneously
throughout the study. Deployment typically coincided with weekdays when residents were
available to receive the instrumentation, with the intention of a two-week sampling time, which
was achieved in most cases. Deployment was conducted from February 12, 2015 to July 30, 2015.
ORD was involved in an onsite support contractor change during the study, which affected the
ability of ICC to maintain a constant deployment scheme as the community liaison position was
partially funded via that mechanism. That contractor change resulted in approximately a six-week
26
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hiatus (from May 11, 2015 to June 25, 2015) in sampling, during which time no measurements
were recorded. Figure 2-9 shows the approximate locations of 15 of the 21 locations. Others were
not included because data were not captured due to pump failures.
5(13) 4<15)
Figure 2-9. Deployment Plan - Location # (Sampling Days).
*Addresses have been offset to nearby streets to protect personal information.
2.7 Community Liaison Duties
The community liaison was responsible for developing a deployment and maintenance
schedule, understanding the technology (software and hardware), and storing and sharing data.
CSAM maintenance duties included swapping or charging and replacing batteries on a specific
schedule, data download via SD card, and transferring CSAM units to different monitoring sites.
It was anticipated that 20-30 minutes per week would be necessary to collect data and change the
battery for each unit. In terms of accessibility, physical or social requirements included the ability
to access residents' homes, access rooftops, and/or climb ladders.
27
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3.0 Results and Discussion
3.1 General Findings
Overall, the CSAM units were stable in all weather conditions (wind, rain, show, changes
in temperature), with the exception of one incident where rain entered the monitor. This could have
occurred due to extreme wind causing rain droplets to enter at an unexpected angle. The sensors
were highly sensitive to measuring pollutant concentrations, with only minimal time periods (<24
hours) where pollutant concentrations were not detected. Data storage and data recovery hardware
and software were robust. The simple turnkey design of the CSAM enabled a single day of training
to be sufficient for proper use in the field by ICC staff and volunteers. They operated the sensors
without any reported safety issues throughout the entire study. Sensors were physically located
either indoors or outdoors, and with either battery or land power. Sensors located indoors due to
accessibility needs were operated with a low volume snorkeling system designed specifically for
the CSAMs so that outdoor air was actually the air stream being monitored. Typically, this
represented the snorkeling tube being inserted through window passages. In the case of battery
power, the battery life was more than sufficient for one week of operation. Recharging the batteries
was simple, as was the switch from land power to battery power and vice versa.
There were some technical issues that arose throughout the study, which is not unusual for
field studies. Minor CSAM damage occurred during transport from the manufacturing location in
Research Triangle Park, North Carolina to EPA's Edison office in New Jersey, which needed to
be repaired before deployment. Some users reported that the monitoring stands and battery power
supplies were heavy and therefore difficult to transport to certain siting locations. Repeated pump
failures (flow rate stability) developed after the units cleared initial EPA testing. Brand new air
pumps were used to replace the old pumps, but there was a change in the manufacturing process
that was unknown by the manufacturer that resulted in part failure and subsequent data loss. On
one occasion there was a battery unit that failed to recharge. Overall, the CSAM units performed
very well, with the exception of these issues.
Table 3-1 presents a summary of findings for each location and CSAM unit, including
sampling times, data flags, and summary statistics for NO2, PM2.5, T, and RH. Data were flagged
green, yellow, or red; green indicates that no problems were found with the data collection, and
red indicates a lack of data due primarily to hardware issues. Yellow-flags indicate that data
collection may not have been as robust as expected; for example, several yellow-flagged periods
recorded a low temperature differential throughout the time period, and/or a high overall
temperature as compared to outdoor conditions. These were typically during times when the units
were placed indoors with the snorkel tube extending outdoors, and so may indicate some indoor
sampling may have accidentally occurred or mixed with the outdoor readings. To date, the true
reason for the yellow flags is inconclusive, but warrants examination before implementing similar
studies that use this technique.
28
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Table 3-1. Summary of sampling locations and CSAM units, including sampling times, data flags, and summary statistics for NO2, PIVhs, T, and RH.
UU1
LLU1
L2U2
L2U2
L3 U3
L4U4
L4U4
15 Ul
L6U2
L7U3
LSU4
L9 Ul
L10
L11U3
L12U4
LL3U1-4
L14U1
L15 U2
L16U3
L17U1
L18U2
LL9U3
L20U4
L21U3
°rtel Green/YeJIow/RedFlag M«n|«d Med,an Upper95% Mean MeanJStd
2/12-2/24 (3568)
2/25-2/27 (874)
2/12-2/24 (3564)
2/25-2/27 (881)
2/12-2/24(3590)
2/12-2/24 (3465)
2/25-2/27 (829)
3/3-3/16 (4040)
2/2S-3/16 (4654)
3/3-3/16 (4004)
3/2-3/16
3/18-3/25 (2287)
3/17-4/6
3/1S-3/25 (1709)
3/18-4/6
4/7-4/15 (=2000)
4/21-5/12 (604S)
4/21-5/11 (5680)
4/24-5/11 (4915)
6/25-7/10 (2279)
[6/25-7/14]
6/25-7/14 (5439)
6/16-7/14 (5328)
7/30 (31)
G(OK)
Y(HighT;LowAT)
Y (High T; Low AT)
G|OK)
Y (High T; Low AT)
R (PM N/A)
Y (High T; Low AT)
R (PM N/A)
Y (High T; Low AT)
Y (High T; Low AT)
G(OK)
Y (6/29-7/1; 7/5-7/10)
R (Care
unplug
G|OK)
Y (6/16-6/26)
R (PM N/A)
S(OK)
12.2 (5.7)
11.6 (2.2)
13.2 (4.2)
13.0 (3.1)
19.4 (4.0)
N/A
N/A
10.5
11.4
11.9
12.2
17.8
11
13.1
1S.9
15.0
10.3
12.4
11.7
13.4
13.2
19.5
12.3
14.1
21.1
16.7
11.1
16.8
29
33.2 (24.7)
47.2 (24.5)
10.2 (9.8)
13.4 (9.7)
18.3 (15.4)
17.8 (15.0)
22.2 (10.9)
13.8 (0.8)
4.6 (2.4)
27.2 (18.9)
N/A
27.5 (4.8)
8.7 (11.4)
38.2 (31.7)
15.1 (18.7)
22.0 (18.3)
27.0 (15.4)
N/A
4.0 (8.6)
5.2 (6.7)
1.0 (4.1)
21.7
41.8
5.3
10.1
14.1
14.0
22.6
13.5
5.0
23.1
6.2
18.6
23.4
3.1
-0.5
34.0
48.9
10.5
14.0
18.8
18.3
22.9
13.8
4.7
27.8
15.6
22.5
27.7
5.3
2.5
0.0 (4.0)
1.8(2.5)
20.5 (1.0)
21.0 (0.9)
-1.3(5.3)
16.0 (2.6)
16.6 (1.0)
17.6 (0.8)
15.6 (1.9)
6.1 (4.2)
N/A
7.8 (3.7)
9.4 (1.6)
19.5 (3.2)
19.8 (0.4)
13.2 (2.8)
19.9 (3.0)
N/A
18.3 (1.7)
22.4 (3.3)
19.5 (0.6)
51.1(15.0}
49.9 (8.1)
26 (7.6)
34.2 (1.9)
48.1 (18.9)
37.7 (4.4)
38.6(0.9)
25.0 (8.1)
37.S (8.5)
55.8 (20.8)
N/A
39.6 (17.7)
25.4 (6.2)
34.7 (10.0)
42.3 (9.7)
46.9 (14.5)
53.9 (14.4)
N/A
51.2 (7.8)
63.8 (9.3)
62.4 (3.5)
-------
3.2 PM2.5 Results
PM2.5 demonstrated a moderate degree of variability between locations, with the lowest
mean of 10.4 ug/m3 at location 9, and the greatest mean of 20.1 ug/m3 at location 7 (note: these
were not contemporaneous measurements). The 90th percentile values ranged from a low of 14.8
ug/m3 at location 9 as well, and the greatest value of 31.8 ug/m3 also at location 7. The overall
average PM2.5 from all locations and time periods was 14.5 ug/m3, and overall the 90th percentile
value was 20.3 ug/m3. A geospatial map of PM2.5 is presented in Figure 3-1. The figure reports a
combination of 12 select locations previously described in Table 3-1 having either "green" or
"yellow" flagged data completeness records. Temporal graphs for Locations 7 and 9 are presented
in Figure 3-2.
The overall trend of PIVh.s across locations and time primarily seems to reflect general
ambient conditions, as sites did not deviate significantly between each other. However, certain
sites did indicate a potential effect from localized sources. The five locations with the greatest
average PIVh.s values (from high to low) were locations 7, 3, 11, 16, and 19, ranging from 20.1-
16.2 ug/m3 (with 90th percentile values being greater still). The remainder of the sites ranged from
14.7-10.4 ug/m3, demonstrating enough of a difference between the two groups to warrant further
investigation into local contributions to PM2.5.
Average PIVh.s (ug/m3)
mdential ''"»««, / -Is.- i
Center ' '"' .-,.• ..: ' \
Figure 3-1. Average PIVhs.
30
-------
14
10
0
•:
•W
:;
120-
H
30
34
;s
22
U
10
Location 9 Summary
Location 7 Summary
_^4—Ot>v/
I
j^^v^u*—-4.
Figure 3-2. Temporal measurements for Location 9 and 7, representing the least and greatest average PM2.5 measurements, respectively.
31
-------
3.3 NO2 Results
As expected, NO2 showed greater variability between locations than PIVh.s. Locations near
major transportation corridors seemed to record the highest values, although a detailed analysis of
source contributions was not performed. For example, location 9, though recording the lowest
average PIVh.s, actually was one of the top 5 sites for NO2, likely due to its proximity to McCarter
Highway. Average NO2 ranged from a low of 4 ppb at location 19, to a high of 41.4 ppb at location
1. The 90th percentile value ranged from a low of 13.4 ppb at location 20, and a high of 87.4 ppb
at location 14. The overall average NO2 from all locations and time periods was 18.9 ppb, and
overall 90th percentile value was 40.4 ppb.
As noted, there was a marked difference in NO2 measurements between different sites.
Sites with relatively higher values retained those patterns throughout their sampling times (i.e.,
their greater averages were not driven by singular excursions or outliers). The top five 90th
percentile values were 87.4, 80.8, 56.2, 56.2, and 49.7 ppb recorded at locations 14, 1, 9, 7, and
16, respectively. In contrast, the lowest five 90th percentile values were 8.1, 13.4, 15, 16.2, and
26.8 ppb at locations 6, 20, 5, 19, and 2, respectively. However, some of these lower sites were
flagged as yellow and should be considered with caution. Nonetheless, the discrepancy between
the higher and lower groups indicates a strong potential connection to localized conditions,
especially with respect to major roadways. Even so, a full understanding of all local source
impacts, including roadways, has not been defined as a result of this pilot study. Temporal trends
for locations 19 (lowest average) and 1 (highest average) are presented in Figure 3-4.
Average NO2 (ppb)
4.0 - 5.3
53 - 15,1
15,1 - 22,0
22,0-27.5
27,5 - 41.4
0,1 k Island
Figure 3-3. Average NO2.
32
-------
Location 19 Summary
Location 1 Summary
/*
-------
3.4 General Discussion
The CSAM units proved to be a reliable method of collecting air quality information. The
two technical challenges included the previously unknown manufacturing defect in the pumps and
data quality possibly related to the snorkel tubes (the potential for which was discussed prior to
deployment). Despite these issues, participants were able to collect a wealth of temporally- and
geospatially-resolved data to assess local air quality conditions. Whereas technical issues were
often quickly identified and resolved, interpretation and communication of results proved to be a
more challenging aspect throughout the project to its conclusion. This section describes the process
and eventual approach taken to characterize the data and deliver an appropriate scientific message
that also resonated with the various viewpoints of the different stakeholders: ICC, the EPA Region,
and EPA ORD.
CSAM results generally demonstrated that PM2.5 concentrations were more indicative of
ambient air quality, and NO2 concentrations were potentially affected by nearby sources (e.g.,
roadways). However, since no source apportionment analyses were performed, these
interpretations were based primarily on geospatial trends and patterns. Future work may include a
temporal analysis of NO2 (i.e., rush hour versus off-peak traffic conditions) and/or coupling
measurements with a near-road air quality model and source apportionment model in order to
delineate traffic effects, but this was not performed in this project.
Aside from the general geospatial interpretations, one of the primary questions was about
how the data relates to personal exposures and potential impacts. Since the measurements were
non-regulatory (i.e., they were not Federal Reference Method or Federal Equivalent Method
measurements), their interpretation related to impacts was not clear. Also, even though the CSAM
units had a stationary aspect to them (i.e., left in place for up to two weeks), it was important to
note and convey that they are not equivalent to or representative of stationary regulatory monitors.
Therefore, their measurements cannot be interpreted in the same way. Interpretation of results
relied primarily on comparisons between the locations, rather than on determining what the actual
concentration values meant with respect to potential impacts.
It was generally agreed that results related more to 24-hour standards than annual averages,
but even this was not a direct comparison. We could not compare the CSAM results to the NAAQS
24-hour standards because the methodological and technical discrepancies were too great. In order
to put some context on the actual measured values, we compared them to 24-hour averages based
on one year of data for other cities. This was simply to provide some scale to the results as to
whether they were relatively high, low, or average. Results were not on the highest end of the
scale, but nor were they the lowest, and examination of 90th percentiles and upper-bound values
indicated that the air quality resided with some of the more polluted cities that were compared.
Given that the Ironbound measurements were taken primarily in winter or cold months, the
potential for higher summertime values could increase these estimates as well as provide a more
complete annual picture of air quality conditions.
Geospatial examination (especially of NCh) did tend to highlight near-road areas as
potential for concern. These findings would support more careful examination of exposure and
associated risk, as well as help identify areas to target exposure reduction actions. PM2.5
34
-------
concentrations did not indicate that ambient air quality was exceedingly high, although it was not
so low as to warrant no further consideration. One of the early goals was to use the data to isolate
specific areas to target near-source effects. In this respect, data collected here could be used to
target sensor placement in order to determine near-source contributions and their effect on
localized background concentrations (i.e., hotspot identification). To date, this has not yet been
performed.
Based on these considerations, communicating results relied more on aspects of geospatial
distribution and general trends, rather than on the potential impacts resulting from measured
concentrations. Results are informative to identify areas for further study or education and
outreach, or to target future citizen science measurement campaigns. Targeted exposure and risk
assessment lie outside the scope of what the CSAM can provide. This project successfully engaged
citizens in data collection of air quality measurements, identified geospatial trends in PM2.5 and
NO2, and put the community air quality into context with that of other cities. In particular, air
quality monitoring instrumentation and study design considerations previously unknown to the
community was provided. In turn, the community partner exhibited zeal in using the new
technology, a devotion to conducting research within the quality assurance guidelines, and a desire
to communicate knowledge learned to its stakeholders. Participants were able to use this
information to formulate ideas for future studies, such as saturation monitoring with passive
sensors (for source attribution), air quality in the context of other issues (e.g., water quality and
contaminated land), examination of health incidence clusters, and an overall cumulative
environmental assessment to examine a combined range of issues.
35
-------
4.0 Lessons Learned
An essential aspect of this project was to establish a trusting and collaborative relationship
with the ICC community action group (CAG). This should be the first step in any citizen science
research collaboration. Projects like these are also well served by early communication between
all partners, especially the state, if any collocation of monitors is desired. Because the ICC was
already a well-established CAG and had conducted prior air quality monitoring efforts, they were
well suited to conduct a successful air monitoring project. The staff and volunteers had experience
working together. EPA Region 2 had also previously worked with the ICC on a Community Action
for a Renewed Environment (CARE) project, so there was already a base relationship established.
Multiple phone and web conferences occurred before the initial visit to the Ironbound Community
by ORD and Region 2 scientists. The first visit included a 'meet and greet', a shared meal, and a
tour of the community, highlighting areas of concern related to air pollution and potential sources.
Following this visit, the three parties worked together to develop a study design. Roles and
responsibilities were established for each individual involved in the project, but for future projects
it is recommended that this occur earlier in the process. This is an important step in order to manage
expectations and ensure there is no confusion regarding roles and responsibilities. This information
was also a necessary component of the QAPP. Region 2 assisted the ICC in completing the QAPP.
Many of the sections were easy to complete because Region 2 already had a citizen science QAPP
template available for modification to the specific project34. The initial plan for data analysis was
for the ICC to analyze and summarize the data collected. As the project proceeded, it became clear
that the ICC would benefit from EPA assistance in this area. ORD scientists ultimately analyzed
and summarized all of the data in a coordinated effort with all of the research partners. The data
summary and interpretation was shared in multiple meetings via PowerPoint presentations
containing graphs and figures showing each unit, location, dates monitored, and results. This data
was ultimately shared with the general public in a community meeting on November 13, 2015,
where ORD and Region 2 scientists communicated the project goals, design, and results to
attendees.
This project proved to have many successes and opportunities for growth/learning lessons.
Emerging technologies were developed to meet citizen science needs and made to operate in a
user-friendly mode. The turnkey on/off design of the CSAM provided a simple interface for
citizens. Though well-designed and engineered, the technology was not foolproof. There were
some technical difficulties at times, but they were mostly due to circumstances outside of EPA's
control associated with a component failure. EPA found that it is important for all parties to
understand the benefits and limitations of the data before and throughout the research project, and
how it can and cannot be used. Data review was extensive and required EPA involvement.
Furthermore, determining what the data mean represented a key question. ORD scientists had to
assist the ICC in data analysis and interpretation. Overall, citizen scientists in this pilot project
operated sophisticated equipment and successfully engaged in extended air quality monitoring
campaigns. They also followed an approved study design and QAPP. The ICC represents a well-
34 http://www3.epa.gov/region02/citizenscience/pdf/citsci_air_attach_b_form.pdf
36
-------
informed, highly engaged community action group, and this collaboration helped to understand
our respective roles (ICC/Region/ORD) in citizen science.
4.1 Value of Citizen Science Data
Citizen science has contributed to science for hundreds of years. With the introduction of low-
cost technologies, citizens now have the potential to learn more about their local and personal
environments. Data collected by citizens can identify and isolate high-concentration pollution
areas. It can also paint a picture and give an overall representation of air quality in a specific
community. Taking measurements over time can help citizens find areas that fluctuate between
high and low concentrations due to local sources.
While citizen-collected data have many potential uses, there are some limitations. It cannot
pinpoint specific sources of emissions, but it can find areas affected by local sources, such as major
roadways. It cannot determine health impacts of pollution, but it can isolate most-affected areas in
order to target health improvement strategies. The value of these contributions should not be
overlooked.
It is important to acknowledge that while informative, citizen science sensors are not directly
comparable to regulatory sensors. The technologies are different, and regulatory monitors are left
in place for long periods of time with frequent checks. In addition, regulatory standards (for
enforcement) are calculated in a specific way.
EPA plays an important role in citizen science. EPA scientists can help citizens understand
how citizen-collected data can be used, what information it provides, and how results can drive
decision making, especially at the local level. In addition, EPA can participate, educate, facilitate
partnerships, technically assist, analyze and interpret results, and recommend actions - but, by law,
citizen science measurements cannot be used to mandate regulatory actions.
4.2 Ironbound Citizen Science Accomplishments
The Ironbound community and ICC staff and volunteers played a large role in the success
of this project. They independently established a team of citizen scientists to conduct the air quality
monitoring. They successfully received and conducted training on a sophisticated monitoring
system, the CSAM. They engaged the community and established monitoring location agreements
that met the study design requirements. They also independently operated the monitors to meet
quality assurance guidelines and obtained sufficient data collection when the sensors were
operating at their potential. All of these accomplishments led to the ultimate success of the project.
37
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Appendix A: Quality Assurance Project Plan
Ironbound Citizen Science Air Monitoring Collaboration
US EPA ORD, US EPA Region 2, and Ironbound Community Corporation
Regional Applied Research Effort (RARE)
Project: Quality Assurance Project Plan
February4, 2015
Ironbound Citizen Science Air Monitoring Collaboration
US EPA Regional Applied Research Effort
US EPA Office of Research and Development (ORD), US EPA Region 2, Alion Science and Technology,
Ironbound Community Corporation (ICC)
Effective Date of Plan: February 4, 2015
Prepared by:
Molly Greenberg, MSW
Ironbound Community Corporation, Community Program Manager
Approved by:.
Patricia Sheridan, EPA Region 2 N], Citizen Science Liaison & QA Officer
Approved by:.
Avraham Teitz, EPA Region 2 NJ, Community Technical Support
Approved by:.
Ron Williams, EPA ORD Technical Advisor
Approved by:
Tim Barzyk, EPA ORD Principal Investigator
Approved by:
Anhthu Hoang, EPA Region 2 NY Project Coordinator
Concurrence by:
Sania W. Tong Argao, EPA ORD HEASD QA Manager
38
-------
Project Organization Chart
Figure 1 shows the organization chart for this project. For more detailed information about the
roles and responsibilities for this project, please see Table 1 below and Attachment A.
Figure 1. Project Organization Chart
EPA ORD Technical
Advisor, Amanda
Kaufman, US EPA ORD
HEASD QA Manager,
Sania Tong Argao, US
EPA ORD
EPA ORD Technical
Advisor, Ron
Williams, US EPA ORD
EPA ORD Technical
Advisor, Gayle Hagler,
US EPA ORD
Principal
Investigator, Tim
Barzyk,USEPAORD
EPA Community
Technical
Support, Avraham
Teitz, US EPA,
Region 2, Edison
Citizen Science
Liaison & QA
Officer, Pat
Sheridan, US EPA
Region 2, Edison
Region 2 Project
Coordinator, Anhthu Hoang
US EPA Region 2 NY
EPA Region 2
Management,
Kevin Kubik, US
EPA Region 2,
Edison
ORD-DESA (Division
of Environmental
Science &
Assessment) Liaison,
Marie O'Shea, US EPA
Region 2 NY
Community Liaison,
Zora Drake, Alion
Science and Technology
Corporation
Community Program
Manager, Molly
Greenberg, MSW
Ironbound Community
Corporation
NJ State Liaison,
Mazeeda Khan, US
EPA Region 2 NY
Community Organizer,
Maria Lopez Nunez,
Ironbound Community
Corporation
Ironbound Community
Volunteers
39
-------
Project/Task Organization
Table 1. Roles and responsibilities of key project personnel.
Name
Molly
Greenberg,
MSW
Maria
Lopez
Nunez
Community
Volunteers
Anhthu
Hoang
Mazeeda
Khan
Marie
O'Shea
Contact
Information
mgreenberg@iron
boundcc.org
mlopeznunez@iro
nboundcc.org
Hoang.Anhthu@ep
a.gov
Khan.Mazeeda@ep
a.gov
OShea.Marie@epa.
gov
Organizational Affiliation
Ironbound Community
Corporation
Ironbound Community
Corporation
Ironbound Community
EPA Region 2
ORA/OSP-EJ, NY
EPA Region 2
CASD, NY
EPA Region 2
DESA, NY
Title
Community
Project
Manager
Community
Organizer
Region 2
Project
Coordinator
NJ State
Liaison
ORD-DESA
Liaison
Responsibilities
1. Coordinate with EPA partners on the
development of Citizen Science protocols
for community air monitoring.
2. Characterize near-road/near-source
hotspots, determine potential impact on
nearby residences (Inc. vertical
gradients); and roadways at different
gradients
3. Work with Community Volunteers to
review and validate equipment/study
SO Ps and toolbox materials
4. Support the project by organizing and
conducting outreach to facilitate
community involvement in study-related
needs such as design, data collection,
analysis, and report back
5. Prepared the QAPP document
1. Coordinate the community volunteers,
downloading of data, and the moving of
the sensors
1. Support study needs including equipment
handling and maintenance, data collection
and management, provide community
updates
2. Review and critique SOPs and Citizen
Science toolbox documentations
3. Update study partners on progress and
challenges related to monitoring
1. Coordinate study activities
2. Ensure communication between project
staff and partners regarding, among other
things, project progress and needs,
sharing documents, data reporting, and
technical assistance.
1. Ensures NJ DEP is aware of the Region
2/ICC RARE study and apprised of its
progress
1. Provide support regarding issues related
to RARE funding
2. Advise study staff and partners regarding
DESA and ORD related issues
40
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Table 1. Roles and responsibilities of key project personnel, (continued)
Name
Patricia
Sheridan
Avraham
Teitz
Kevin
Kubik
Tim
Barzyk
(EMRB]
Ron
Williams
(EMAB]
Amanda
Kaufman
Gayle
Hagler
Sania Tong
Argao
Zora Drake
Contact
Information
Sheridan. Patrici
a@epa.gov
Teitz.Avraham
@epa.gov
KubikKevin@e
pa.gov
Barzyk. Timothy
@epa.gov
Williams. Ronald
@epa.gov
Kaufman.Aman
da@epa.gov
Hagler.Gayle@e
pa.gov
Tong-
Argao.Sania@ep
a.gov
drake.zora@epa
.gov
Organizational
Affiliation
EPA Region 2
DESA, Edison
EPA Region 2
DESA, Edison
EPA Region 2
DESA, Edison
EPAORD
EPAORD
EPAORD
EPAORD
EPAORD
Alion Science and
Technology
Title
Citizen Science
Liaison, QA Officer
EPA-Community
Technical Support
EPA Region 2
Management
Principal
Investigator
EPAORD Lead
Technical
Investigator
EPA ORC Technical
Advisor
EPA ORC Technical
Advisor
Human Exposure &
Atmospheric
Sciences Division
(HEASD] QA
Manager
Community Liaison
Responsibilities
Advise study partners on Citizen Science issues such
as QAPP development and sensor best practices.
1. Training ICC volunteers on the use of the sensors
and the data download;
2. Participate in the collaborative site selection
process;
3. Site tour and presentation;
4. Trouble-shoot future download/maintenance
issues as they arise.
Provide R2 Leadership input as appropriate
documents/tools related to sensors, siting, and
analysis; develop guidance for local scale applications
[e.g., best practices].
developing how-to documents, examples of best
practices, and sensor applications. Advise on sensor
use and operation, measurement
uncertainty/variability, and environmental
considerations [e.g., cold, heat, precipitation].
tools, and resources for toolbox; review R2/ICC
practices; advise on sensor operation and operational
considerations.
sensor applications related to various pollutants and
types of environmental assessments.
Review and provide concurrence on the project
QAPP.
1. Attend training at EPA offices for:
a. Equipment handling & maintenance
b. Data collection & management
2. Provide technical support and supervision for
Community Project Manager
3. Act as liaison between project technical team, ICC,
and community volunteers
For more information, please see Attachment A for further information about the project, roles, and
responsibilities.
41
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Background and History
"The Ironbound" neighborhood is located in the Eastward of Newark in Essex County, New Jersey. It
is roughly four square miles east of Newark's Pennsylvania Station, bounded by highways (Routes 1 &
9, 21, 78, NJ Turnpike), waterways (Passaic River, Newark Bay), Newark Airport and Port
Newark/Elizabeth Marine Terminal. Located in and comprising most of the City's East Ward, the
Ironbound gets its name from the rail tracks that once surrounded the area on three sides. The
community has a population of more than 50,000 people and is one of the most densely populated and
diverse areas of the city, with two-thirds of the population being foreign born. Seventy five percent of
those over the age of five speak a foreign language at home, typically Portuguese or Spanish.
Educational attainment levels are relatively low with 55% of those over 18 without a high school
diploma. Census tracts in the Ironbound neighborhood range from 25% - 55% of households below
the poverty level. There are hundreds of public housing tenants in three public housing complexes
(more than 700 units of public housing, 75% of the residents are African American and all low income)
living in closest proximity to industrial land uses and hazardous sites like the Diamond Alkali
Superfund site and highways like the Turnpike.
Ironbound is an environmental justice neighborhood, which suffers from the concentration of
environmental burdens resulting from past and current industrial activities that lead to cumulative
environmental and health impacts. Although the community still has the remnants of its old
manufacturing base (e.g., chemical and paint manufacturers), many more of the pollution sources
today are derived from unregulated or non-traditional sectors like scrap metal yards, backup power
generation, goods movement related industries (e.g., trucking companies, highways, waste treatment
or incineration), and long term cleanup projects like the Passaic River dredging. These diverse
pollution sources require more comprehensive and innovative approaches to gaining up to date
community level monitoring data and using that to further identify, and mitigate risks than the
standard, single media-based approaches of the past.
Problem Definition and Project Objectives
Problem Definition
According to the EPA, citizen science is a form of research that enlists the public in collecting a wide
range of environmental data to expand scientific knowledge and literacy. Knowing the numerous
sources of pollution in Ironbound, there has been little on the ground air monitoring by either the
state New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection or the federal Environmental Protection
Agency. Therefore, the Ironbound Community has looked to citizen science as a means to get better
community level data and highlight the need for additional monitoring as well as increase the priority
given to environmental justice communities like Ironbound. The Ironbound Community Corporation
(ICC), working in collaboration with EPA's Office of Research and Development (ORD) and Region 2,
will use stationary air monitors to gain invaluable data about the impacts from a disproportionate
number of mobile sources, also taking into account areas in the community with sources of vertical
gradients of mobile pollution. The monitors will provide data for particulate matter (PM) and nitrogen
dioxide (N02), which are the air pollution components most associated with mobile emissions.
42
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Project Objectives
The primary goal for this project is to have Ironbound community volunteers take outdoor air
monitoring measurements of PM and N02 using the Citizen Science Air Monitor (CSAM) air
monitoring system in order to understand what exposures of urban air pollution affect the
environmental justice Ironbound community.
During the course of this project, each of the partners will work towards fulfilling the following
objectives:
Ironbound Community Corporation: Characterize near-road/near-source hotspots;
Determine potential impact on nearby residences (including vertical gradients) and
roadways at different gradients near sensitive receptors such as public housing next to
ground-level truck routes and an above-grade/elevated railroad and highway. Engage the
community on citizen science and air monitoring.
EPA Region 2: Develop a standard operating procedure (SOP) and a one-page how-to-use
brochure for using the Citizen Science Air Monitoring kit Develop sensor loan program for
public use that includes timeframes, source types, # monitors/loan, SOP, and related
materials.
EPA Office of Research and Development: Develop the Citizen Science Toolbox that
compiles tools, methods, sensor and environmental considerations, and best practices for
conducting citizen science environmental assessments.
Data Users
The data collected from this project will be used by ICC as initial data to help characterize the
correlation between near roadside sources of air pollution and their potential impacts on the
Ironbound Community. ICC and EPA will be analyzing the data and comparing it to the only
stationary monitor in Newark, NJ.
The pilot of this project in the Ironbound Community has a short timeline. The process will enhance
ICC's organizing around protective zoning, increasing greenspace, advocacy for the least polluting
trucks, and stopping new sources of pollution from being built in the community. The results from
the air monitors will potentially show the need for more extensive testing.
Project Location
Working in conjunction with residents, ICC plans to target the locations for the sampling where
there is high exposure to mobile sources nearby major roadways to vulnerable populations,
children and seniors. Sampling will ideally be at each location for up to or as close to two weeks,
and with exact locations being finalized once the date for release of the instruments is confirmed.
ICC is planning to start with the identified first two rounds of monitoring as listed in Table 2 (see
locations marked with 1 or 2). Using the data from that initial month, ICC will hone in on the
locations where increases in PM and N02 numbers are seen and then try to locate air monitors near
43
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those places for the next round of monitoring. Table 2 and Figure 2 list and show possible
monitoring sites, respectively. ICC has reached out to different residents throughout the
neighborhood about being possible locations for the air monitors. It is known that these monitors
are designed for outdoor use, but siting considerations may necessitate placement of the monitor
assembly indoors with a snorkel tube leading outdoors for outdoor air sampling (e.g., through a
window). It is noted that in an urban environmental justice location, the placing of outdoor
monitors can present a challenge. Therefore, ICC and EPA will take into account any potential
quality of data impacts that may occur due to indoor placement and the use of a snorkel tube for
some of the sensors. For more information about the Ironbound location, see the attached
Ironbound Cumulative Impacts CARE Maps, Attachment B - Map of the Ironbound Community,
Attachment Bl - Facilities Emitting Hazardous Air Pollutants in East Ward, Newark NJ and Nearby
South Kearny, and Attachment B2 - 2002 NATA Predicted Statewide Diesel Concentrations in New
Jersey.
*Tables 1 and 2 were omitted due to sensitive information on siting locations.
Table 3 below shows the general schedule for the project
Table 3. Project Schedule
Activities
Preparation of QAPP
Review and Assist with
Preparation of QAPP
Grant Oversight
Approval of QAPP
Procurement of Equipment
Equipment re-assemble, testing,
repair, and recalibration
Sample Collection and Analysis
Organization/Group responsible for
activity completion
Molly Greenberg, MSW
ICC Community Project Manager
Pat Sheridan, Citizen Science Liaison &
QA Officer, US EPA Region 2 Edison
Zora Drake, Alion Science and
Technology
Timothy Barzyk, EPA Work Assignment
Contract Officer
Pat Sheridan, EPA Region 2 Edison
Sam Garvey, Alion Science and
Technology
Avraham Teitz, US EPA Region 2
Molly Greenberg, Maria Lopez Nunez, &
Community Volunteers
Ironbound Community Corporation;
Avraham Teitz to provide technical
assistance as needed
Timeframe work will be done
January 2015- Submit QAPP
February 2015- Approved QAPP
January/February 2015
October 2014 - March 2015
February 2015
March 2015
Upon receipt of equipment
(January 2 015)
February 2015-April 2015
44
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Activities
Data Evaluation
Preparation of Final Deliverables
Organization/Group responsible for
activity completion
Ironbound Community Corporation;
Tim Barzyk, EPA ORD, available for
consultation and technical assistance
Ironbound Community Corporation;
Tim Barzyk, EPA ORD, available for
consultation and technical assistance
Timeframe work will be done
February 2015-April 2015
April 2015
Existing Data
The Ironbound Citizen Science Air Monitoring Collaboration, Regional Applied Research Effort is
being piloted in this project and new raw data is to be collected. Therefore, there is not any existing
data so this section is not applicable in this QAPP.
Quality Objectives
For information about the data quality objectives, see pages 1-5 (especially Table 2) in the Citizen
Science Air Monitor (CSAM) (Attachment C), and for more project specific objectives see
Attachment D ICC_EPA_RARE Training Agenda, including Section 5 (Data Collection) and Section 7
(Output Datasets and Software). In addition to the data quality objectives listed in Table 2 for each
measurement, the flow rate at the CSAM-PM inlet should be 1.5 L/min ± 10%.
One of the aspects of this project that ICC and EPA will be evaluating is the data quality resulting
from the sensors when placed indoors and using a tube to collect outdoor samples. Ironbound is a
unique urban community. Although we are densely populated, Ironbound has maintained a
neighborhood look. There are not many apartment buildings or fire escapes for outdoor siting of
sensor assemblies. Therefore, we are planning to test the efficiency of the monitors when the
measuring devices (actual sensors) are operating inside a building, but using a small tube (i.e.,
snorkel tube) to collect outdoor samples (e.g., by extending the tube out a window).
Equipment List and CSAM Set Up & Operation
For equipment list information, see Attachment C: Citizen Science Air Monitor Section 1: Verifying
CSAM Performance (pg. 4 -5) and Section 2: Field Operation (pg. 16).
For information on performance checks, software installation, CSAM set up, and maintenance by an
experienced operator, see Section 1: Verifying CSAM Performance (pg. 4-15) of the Citizen Science
Air Monitor Operating Procedure (Attachment C).
For information on field operation of the CSAM by the volunteer citizen operators, see Section 2:
Field Operation (pg. 16-27) of the Citizen Science Air Monitor Operating Procedure (Attachment C).
Information in this section includes battery changing/charging, CSAM on location set up, routine
data collection, and processing data.
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Instrument Calibration and Maintenance - Alion, EPA, and ICC Responsibilities
Alion Science and Technology and EPA ORD are responsible for completing the initial calibration of
the monitors. EPA Region 2 Edison performs quality assurance and quality control calibrations. EPA
Region 2 Edison along with the Ironbound Community Corporation performs field calibrations
while the monitors are being collocated with the New Jersey State Department of Environmental
Protection's Newark stationary air monitor. While the monitors are in the community, ICC performs
daily flow checks and coordinates collaboration in the field. ICC is also responsible for daily
operations of the monitor including battery maintenance and EPA Region 2 Edison will support ICC
as needed. EPA Region 2 Edison is responsible for the maintenance of the monitors. General
information about calibration and maintenance can be found in Attachment C: Citizen Science Air
Monitor- Recording Performance Check Data (pg. 9-10), Conducting the Performance Check (pg.
11 - 15), and Battery Changing and Charging (pg. 16-20).
Data Collection Methods
ICC will be responsible for setting up the CSAM units. ICC will document the location, dates, and
other relevant information of monitor placement in Field Data Sheets (below) and then consolidate
the information into a central repository, such as a master spreadsheet or file folder, at the main
office or other accessible location.
For information about the data collection methods, see Section 2: Field Operation in Attachment C:
Citizen Science Air Monitor Operating Procedure starting on page 16. Note that battery
changing/charging info begins on page 16 of the CSAM Operating Procedure document while CSAM
setup procedures begin on page 20 followed by Routine Data Collection procedures starting on
page 23. The Ironbound Air Monitor Locations mentioned in Table 2 and Ironbound RARE Possible
Monitoring Sites in Figure 1 show where air monitoring data is planned and potentially planned on
being collected. Site selection and positioning requirements for the CSAM unit can be found in the
CSAM Quality Assurance Guidelines as referenced in the CSAM Operating Procedures manual. Table
4 shows the Community Field Data Sheet to be used during sample collection by ICC when installing
the sensors at the siting locations.
Table 4. Ironbound Citizen Science Air Monitoring Collaboration Community Field Data Sheet
Ironbound Citizen Science Air Monitoring Collaboration
m§ll Community Field Data Sheet
Ironbound
Name:
Address:
Describe Location (nearby industries, childcare centers, restaurants, etc.):
Date:
1.
Time
Battery
Status
(Changed)
Calibration
Number
Flow Rate
General Observations of the day /location
(Bad Smell, lots of trucks, etc.)
46
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3.
I
o
Analytical Methods*
*This section only needs to be completed when sample analysis by a laboratory is applicable to the
project
No laboratory will be used to analyze the samples since the equipment being used will provide the
data without further laboratory analysis. Additional information about the pollutants being
monitored can be found in Attachment C: Citizen Science Air Monitor pages 2-3.
Data Evaluation
At the onset of the project, CSAM units will be co-located with established Federal Reference
Methods (FRMs) in order to determine the consistency and precision of CSAM monitors. As data is
collected from the field, it will be screened for anomalous readings by examining temporal trends
and outliers. CSAM results will be compared to ambient FRM measurements from the local air
monitoring station by establishing and comparing regression equations based on at least seven
days of data; while exact replication of values is not expected, this will provide a baseline to identify
outliers or otherwise inconsistent readings. CSAM measurements will also be examined as related
to meteorological parameters, such as temperature, relative humidity, and precipitation to analyze
any confounding issues. Also, a comparison between sampling with and without snorkel tubes will
47
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be performed. The combination of these analyses will ensure that collected data conforms to the
accuracy expected of the CSAM units.
Training and Specialized Experience
Training
Alion Science and Technology and EPA will provide one in person training for ICC staff and
community volunteers to go over the CSAM Operating Procedure manual and the mechanics of
using the monitors. EPA Region 2 NJ will be available as needed for further instruction or help. EPA
ORD also offered webinar based training if needed/wanted by the community. See Attachment D:
ICC_EPA_RARE Training Agenda for training-related information.
Personnel/Group to
be Trained
Frequency of
Training
Ironbound
Community
Corporation staff and
community volunteers
Representatives from Alion Science and
Technology and EPA will go to Newark and
work with community to show them the
instruments, go over the manual, and allow for
community to take the instruments apart and
put them together while answering any of their
questions
Training will be on
January 22,2015 prior
to the instruments
being turned over to
the community
Specialized Experience
Person
Specialized Experience
Years of
Experience
Molly Greenberg, MSW
Environmental Justice
Policy Manager
Ironbound Community
Corporation
Currently a co-Pi for an EPA STAR project where
asthmatic children ages 9-14 carry micro
aethalometers. Coordinated a citizen science
project taking VOC grab samples. Is coordinating a
second round of citizen science VOC grab samples.
Data Management
Data management information can be found in Attachment C: Citizen Science Air Monitor pages 24-
27, Processing Data. ICC will collect and store all data collected from the CSAM units on at least one
(preferably two for backup) hard drive at their local office; this includes raw data as well as the
CSAM Excel Data Analysis files. ICC can send data through email as electronic files to Region 2, ORD,
or other collaborators as needed. ICC will develop a file naming convention to ensure consistency
between file names, and include the site location and CSAM unit # (dates are automatically
recorded, and not required in the file names); an example is, CSAM_Unitl_Site2 (with site number
being documented as well).
Data Review and Usability Determination
Data Review
48
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Table 5 shows the field activities needed to help ensure quality assurance for the project, and the
related data review tasks associated with those activities. ICC is responsible for the field activities
and data review tasks during installation of CSAM units and collection of data.
Table 5. Field Activities and Associated Data Review Tasks Required for Quality Assurance
Field Activity to Check
Data Review Tasks
Monitoring of site activities
Daily visits to site locations
• Check battery/power
• Check CSAM integrity not compromised
• Visual/audible inspection of equipment
Check in with resident volunteers
• Ensure no issues with sensor placement
• Confirm appropriate operation followed
Calibration of monitors (as needed; by Region)
Field Data Sheet
• Collect and fill information in Field Data
Sheet
• Note any special considerations or issues
Field QC samples performed correctly
Step by step following of CSAM procedures
• Downloading of data
• Follow up if needed with EPA
Measurements performed correctly
Data check in with EPA
• On a periodic basis (TBD by ICC after data
collection has begun), ICC will check in with
Region 2 and ORD regarding data
collection, and review any potential issues
or discrepancies
Calibrations performed correctly
Information documented on Field Data Sheet
Evaluate any deviations from QAPP or SOPs to
determine the impact to the data and project
objectives
Follow up with community volunteers
• Confirm operations are proceeding as
planned
• Note any issues regarding installation or
operation of CSAM units
Check in with Community Organizer
• Community Organizer will compile any
relevant details or notes regarding CSAM
operation as reported by volunteers
Check in with EPA
• On a periodic basis (TBD by ICC), check in
with EPA regarding CSAM operations and
progress
Data Usability
This project is a pilot for use of these monitors by community volunteers and is collaborative effort
with EPA ORD, EPA Region 2, and ICC. Therefore, ICC will work with EPA to identify and address
49
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any possible issues with the data. Data that does not fully comply with QC criteria or QAPP
requirements will be explained, and any resultant limitations on data use will be fully discussed in
any final documents.
ICC has been informed by EPA that the sensors were designed for use as outdoor samplers. Indoor
placement and the use of a snorkel tubes (the 1' long %" o.d. x 1/8" i.d. tubes provided by the EPA
ORD contractor) will affect the data quality of the PM fine sensor due to flow and wall effects, and it
could potentially negatively impact the N02 results, due to the inability of the sample air to diffuse
to the sensor. As it is not known what the exact affects will be, the plan is to evaluate the data and
see if any adjustments need to be made prior to including the data in any final deliverables.
Reporting and Final Deliverables
ICC will work with community partners and EPA ORD on the use and reporting of the data.
Expected outputs (final deliverables) for this project include:
• Collection of "on the ground" data from the CSAM air monitors, which will help inform the
Ironbound community about the many concerns that they have about local poor air quality.
This information may possibly be helpful for future interventions.
• Excel CSAM Data Analysis spreadsheets from each air monitoring location; sharing with
EPA Region 2 and ORD on a periodic basis (TBD by ICC) via email.
• Raw data text files from each air monitoring location of the PM, N02, temperature, and
humidity results.
• Temporal trends of pollutant concentrations and basic data analysis (comparison of sites,
sensor units, averages, variability, day/evening concentrations, etc.)
• Identification of potential hotspots of pollution
Note that some of that the information about how the data can be used and how the data will be
reported will need to be determined after evaluation of the data that has been collected. There is no
current format for reporting the final data set planned. This is a new pilot project, and therefore,
much is not known about what can be interpreted or derived from the actual results from this type
of community volunteer type air monitoring.
According to the contract guidelines of this project, ICC reports to Alion Science and Technology by
providing a short narrative on the project's accomplishments and a monthly invoice. A copy of
these reports will be shared with the EPA ORD Principal Investigator by Alion.
50
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Attachment A:
IRONBOUND CITIZEN SCIENCE COMMUNITY AIR MONITORING COLLABORATION
ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
II. Partnership Objectives (Jan, 2014 - Jan, 2016):
Partner
ICC
EPA Region 2
EPA ORD
Point(s) of contact
Molly Greenberg
[Program
Manager]
Anhthu Hoang
Marie O'Shea
Avi (Avraham)
Teitz Mazeeda
Khan Pat
Sheridan Kevin
Kubik
Tim Barzyk [EMRB]
Ron Williams
[EMAB]
Amanda Kaufman
Objective
Characterize near-road/near-source hotspots
Determine potential impact on nearby residences (incl. vertical gradients)
Locations of multi-level (vertically-intersecting) sources
(public housing next to ground-level truck route and elevated/above-grade rail lines and highways)
Develop SOP and one-pager how-to-use brochure
Develop sensor loan program for public use (timeframes, source types, # monitors/loan, SOP,
etc.)
Use/community validated documentation for local Citizen Science toolbox
Develop citizen sensor toolbox- how — to — use; community — based participation; local scale
applications (e.g., hotspots); data management options/tool use
Uncertainty/variability; etc.
51
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III. Scope: Geographical and Temporal (Areas of Study and Timelines)
Project Staff
Molly Greenberg
[Program
Manager]
Drew Curtis
TBD
Non-defined
Anhthu Hoang
Mazeeda Khan
Marie O'Shea
Affiliation
ICC
ICC
Ironbound
Community
Contractor
ICC
EPA Region 2
ORA/OSP— EJ,
NY
EPA Region 2
CASD, NY
EPA Region 2
DESA, NY
Role
Community Partner
Project Manager
TBD
Community Liaison
Community Volunteers
Region 2 Project
Coordinator
NJ State Liaison
ORD— DESA
Liaison
Responsibility
Oversee activities of Community Liaison and Volunteers
TBD
1. Attend training at EPA offices for:
a. Equipment handlings maintenance
b. Data collection & management
2. Provide technical support and supervisionforCommunity Liaison
3. Work with Community Volunteers to review and validate equipment/study SOPs
andtoolbox materials
4. Act as liaison between project technical team, ICC, and community volunteers
5. Support the project by organizing and conducting outreach to facilitate community
involvementin study — related needs such as design, data collection, analysis, and
report back
1. Support study needs including equipment handling and maintenance, data collection
and management, community updates
2. Review and critique SOPs and Citizen Science toolbox documentations
3. Update study partners on progress and challenges related to monitoring
1. Coordinate study activities
2. Ensure communication between project staff and partners regarding, among other
things, project progress and needs, sharing documents, data reporting, etc.
Ensures NJ DEP is aware of our study and apprised of our progress
1. Provide support regarding issues related to RARE funding
2. Advise study staff and partners regarding DESA and ORD related issues
52
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Pat Sheridan
Avraham (Avi)
Teitz and
Mustafa
Mustafa
Kevin Kubik
Tim Barzyk
(EMRB)
Ron Williams
(EMAB)
Amanda
Kaufman
EPA Region 2
DESA, Edison
EPA Region 2
DESA, Edison
EPA Region 2
DESA, Edison
EPA ORD
EPA ORD
EPA ORD
Citizen Science Liaison
EPA — Community
Technical Support
EPA Region 2
Management
Principal
Investigator
EPA ORD
Technical Advisor
EPA ORD
Technical Advisor
Advise study partners on Citizen Science issues such as QAPPS development, etc.
1. Work with ICC on site selection
a. Conduct site visit to ICC to scope potential sites given ICC's data objectives and
technology restrictions
b. Report to study partners potential sites, identifying tradeoffs
2. Train and provide technical assistance ICC contractors (and other representatives as
appropriate) and Community Volunteerson project — related technical needs
a. Handling and maintenance of monitoring equipment
b. Equipmenthandling documentation: chain of custody, calibration, battery
change, etc.
c. Data collection and management, including development and following QAPPS,
etc.
Respond to questions and advise ICC contractor and Community Volunteers on
equipment handlingand maintenance
e. May need to make periodic site visits to ensure project — related equipment are in
good working order and set up is appropriate for project data needs
d. Work with ICC contractor and CommunityVolunteersto troubleshoot equipment
problems and assist to repair resources as needed
Provide R2 Leadership input as appropriate
1. Manage contractor work assignment related to instrumentassemblies, citizen
science toolbox, and community liaison.
2. Maintain milestones and documentation related to RARE progress.
3. Facilitate interaction between technical requirements and community— specific
needs.
Provide mid-way study status report at a general Ironbound Community partners
meeting
Provide technical expertise on instrument assemblies as related to project
objectives, and input on citizen science toolbox.
Provide expertise in assembling citizen science toolbox
Conduct in-person technical training on CSAM units
53
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Attachment B - Map of the Ironbound Community
ironbound
Ironbound CARE Cumulative Impacts Project
Community Action for a Renewed Environment 2009 - 2011
T7T
Vi\ <
—'•^\
fc"S
-• I • "**>%- **"~ «*I"" "•"»«»' ^ " t" £• '. ^
,^, ^€V^-^^
' J*/ *•». v, .-@sa_-ai.- __ / -^
R\4«!T 'X'®—, J/® */
£J / <\. iv ,
WARD / -4W1- )
.7 Tfl :@" y g I -/
^^>^>y
••>* /X,,/^ - ">'^V */ V ^T"
^^V^5 g?#4/c|^/ c ^
PORT /NEWARK'
/ - .'/ o
54
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Attachment Bl - Facilities Emitting Hazardous Air Pollutants in East Ward, Newark NJ and
Nearby South Kearny
0.5
Ironbound
COMMUNITY
CORPORATION
N
A
Hazardous Air Pollutants
HAP Release: Ibs
Olbs
0-100
100-1,000
1,000-10.000
Greater Than 10,000 Ibs
O Childcare
O Community Center
• Correctional Facility
School
O Senior Center
| • Shelter
j^^J East Ward
Map Designed by Zoe Crum & Krista White
Drew University Spatial Data Center
Source: TRI Database
55
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Attachment B2 - 2002 NATA Predicted Statewide Diesel Concentrations in New Jersey.
Statewide Diesel Concentrations (2002)
2002 NATA Predicted Concentrations In New Jersey
Diesel Paniculate Matter Risk
Under 250 times benchmark
250 - 500 times benchmark
500 - 1000 times benchmatk
1000- 1500 times benchmark
H 1500 • 2000 times benchmark
• 2000 - 2300 times benchmark
Maximum average census tract
concentration is 7.66 ug/m'. or
2300 times the health benchmark.
Health Benchmark = 0.0033 ug/m3
Source Contribution
Major - 0%
Area - 0%
On-Road Mobile- 28%
Nonroad Mobile-72%
Background - 0%
California
health
benchmark
SOURCE: http://www.nj.gov/dep/airtoxics/Diesel02.htm
56
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United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Attachment C - Citizen Science Air Monitor (CSAM) Operating Procedure
CITIZEN SCIENCE
AIR MONITOR (CSAM)
Operating Procedur
National Exposure Research Laboratory
-------
CITIZEN SCIENCE
Contents
Introduction 1
Citizen Science Air Monitor (CSAM) 1
Pollutants Measured and Their Sources 1
CSAM Components 1
CSAM-NO2 3
CSAM-PM 3
Temperature and Relative Humidity 3
Microprocessor 3
Section 1: Verifying CSAM Performance 4
What You Will Need 4
Included in CSAM Package 4
Not Included 4
CSAM Performance Checks 4
Software Installation and CSAM Setup 5
Recording Performance Check Data 9
Conducting the Performance Checks 12
CSAM-NO2 Maintenance 14
Section 2: Field Operation 16
What You Will Need 16
Included in CSAM Package 16
Not Included 16
Battery Changing and Charging 17
CSAM Setup 20
Routine Data Collection 23
Processing Data 24
For Additional Help 28
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CITIZEN SCIENCE
Introduction
Citizen Science Air Monitor (CSAM)
The Citizen Science Air Monitor (CSAM) is an air monitoring system designed for measuring
nitrogen dioxide (NCb) and participate matter (PM) pollutants simultaneously. This self-
contained system consists of a CairPol CairClip NC>2 sensor, a Thermo Scientific personal
DataRAM PM2.5 monitor, and a Honeywell temperature and relative humidity (RH) sensor. The
CSAM's design provides for easy data retrieval from all three devices in a single step through a
key-lock access door.
These operating procedures explain what you need to do to collect quality data using the CSAM
for your monitoring project. Two sets of procedures are detailed here. Procedures for verifying
proper operation of the CSAM are provided in Section 1 and should be performed only by an
experienced operator. The Section 2 procedures are for the field operation of the CSAM by
citizen volunteers.
Pollutants Measured and Their Sources
NC>2 is a highly reactive gas that can irritate the lungs and cause bronchitis, pneumonia, and
other respiratory problems. NC>2 pollution is both man-made and naturally occurring. It occurs
naturally as a result of atmospheric processes. It also forms from fuel combustion and forms
quickly from automobile emissions. Therefore, significant increases in NC>2 concentrations are
often found near major roadways. Power plants and other industrial processes also emit NC>2.
PM consists of particles of various sizes such as soot, smoke, dirt, and dust. These particles are
often generated and released into the air from sources such as power plants, industrial and
agricultural processes, automobiles, and fires. PM can adversely affect breathing and aggravate
respiratory and cardiovascular conditions, with the smallest particles posing the greatest health
risk. PM also contributes to atmospheric haze that reduces visibility.
For more information on these air pollutants visit the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's
Web site at http://www.epa.qov/airquality/urbanair/.
CSAM Components
Figure 1 shows the inside of the CSAM and its separate components. Each component is
detailed in the following subsections. The experienced operators conducting the performance
checks will need a thorough understanding of these components, while a general familiarity of
instrument operation should be sufficient for the citizen volunteer operators, who likely will not
need to access the inside of the CSAM. Understanding the components that comprise the
CSAM, however, will help the citizen scientists evaluate the quality of collected data and identify
operational problems. Table 1 lists the measurement units reported by each component.
1
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CITIZEN SCIENCE
BGI sharp-cut
cyclone inlet
personal DataRAM
nephelometer
Ardumo Uno
microprocessor
Measurement
Reporting Unit
NO2 concentration Parts per billion (ppb)
PM concentration Micrograms per cubic meter (ug/m3)
Temperature Degrees Celsius (°C)
Relative humidity (RH) Percent (%) at °C
Table 1
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CSAM-NO2
CSAM measurements of NC>2 are made using a CairPol CairClip NC>2 sensor. The CairClip uses
a gas-specific inlet filter combined with dynamic air sampling in an integrated system to
measure real-time gas concentration in parts per billion (ppb). The CSAM-NO2 unit's detection
limit—the lowest concentration the instrument is likely to detect—is approximately 20 ppb NC>2.
CSAM-PM
The CSAM-PM component measures real-time PM in micrograms per cubic meter (ug/m3) using
a Thermo Scientific personal DataRAM nephelometer, a device that uses light to measure the
concentration of suspended particles in a liquid or gas. Air is pumped to the nephelometer by an
SKC AirChek 52 personal sampling pump. The nephelometer uses a BGI sharp-cut cyclone
inlet (SCC 1.062), which excludes particles with a diameter above a certain size. In this case, the
CSAM-PM samples for PM2.5, which consists of particles less than 2.5 micrometers in diameter,
or "fine" particles. Fine particles come from all types of combustion activities, such as motor
vehicles, power plants, and wood burning, and pose the greatest health risk because they can
lodge deeply in the lungs. The CSAM-PM unit operates at a flow rate of 1.5 liters per minute
(L/min). It is important to understand that a change in flow rate will change the diameter of the
particles being sampled and thus affect data quality. If a change in flow rate is noted, the unit
should be removed from operation, and an experienced operator should perform the flow rate
check and adjustment detailed in Section 1. The CSAM-PM has a detection limit of 0.1 ug/m3.
Temperature and Relative Humidity
The CSAM also contains a Honeywell temperature and RH sensor (HIH-4602-A/C series).
Temperature (°C) and RH (% at °C) data are recorded along with the PM and NC>2 concentration
data. The recommended CSAM operating ranges for temperature and RH are 32-104 °F and
0-90% RH (with no formation of water droplets), respectively. Abrupt changes in temperature
and RH can affect the performance of your CSAM, particularly the CSAM-NO2 sensor
component. Therefore, temperature and RH data collected concurrently with concentration data
can help you recognize any performance issues caused by environmental conditions.
Microprocessor
Data from all components—PM, NC>2, and temperature and RH—are collected and stored using
an Arduino Uno microprocessor. The Arduino Uno has a USB connection and a power jack.
This microprocessor uses software developed by EPA to allow operators to retrieve all data
from the unit in one easy step. Data will be stored on a secure digital (SD) memory card located
in the microprocessor that the citizen operators access and remove for data download as
described in Section 2.
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Section 1: Verifying CSAM Performance
The procedures in this section should be carried out only by an experienced operator.
The performance checks and maintenance procedure described in this section will help make
sure the CSAM produces the desired results during the study. It is recommended that an
experienced operator conduct the performance checks before deploying the instrument in the
field and after it is removed from the field at the end of the study. In addition, the filter of the
CSAM-NO2 component should be changed by an experienced operator. If at any time a citizen
volunteer operator suspects a CSAM is not functioning properly, it should be removed from
operation and undergo troubleshooting, maintenance, and performance checks as described in
this section.
What You Will Need
Included in CSAM Package
CSAM
Secure digital (SD) card (standard size)
SD card reader
AC-DC adapter with power supply cable or
CSAM battery pack
USB cable
Macro-enabled Microsoft Excel spreadsheet
created specifically for processing CSAM data
(on accompanying CD)
High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter
with tubing attached for PM zero drift check
Rotameter for flow rate measurement with
tubing attached
CSAM Monitoring Record
Red dongle (for CairClip maintenance - see
procedure)
Not Included
Personal computer (PC) running a Windows
operating system (preferably Windows 7
or greater)
Arduino software (to be downloaded from the
Arduino web site - see procedure)
Microsoft Excel
Long Phillips screwdriver (for CairClip
maintenance - see procedure)
Flat-head screwdriver (to adjust PM flow rate
-see procedure)
Source of NO2
Teflon tubing (and proper fittings) for NO2 zero
and span drift check
CSAM Performance Checks
Table 2 identifies the recommended checks—zero and span drift for the CSAM-NO2, flow rate
and zero drift for the CSAM-PM, temperature, and RH—and the acceptable ranges for accuracy
and precision for CSAM applications. Zero and span drift checks verify that the monitor is
functioning within the operating range and that it responds with the desired sensitivity to
changes in input concentration. The flow rate check verifies the rate at which the sample gas
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flows through the instrument. The flow rate is checked using a flow meter to ensure that the
monitor is receiving the proper amount of air to yield a representative sample.
Measurement Performance
(Sensor) Check Accuracy
NO2 concentration _ . . .„ __0/
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4- CD arduino.cc, en/Main/Software
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By downloading the software from this page, you agree to the specified terms.
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Figure 3
Next steps
Getting Started
Reference
Environment
Examples
Foundations
FAQ
Arduino Setup: License Agreement
49\ Please review the license agreement before installing Arduino. If you
\SjSl accept all terms of the agreement, dick I Agree.
SMI! LESSER GENERAL PUBLIC LICENSE
Version 3, 29 June 2007
Copyright (C) 2007 Free Software Foundation, Inc. Vfsf.org/>
Everyone is permitted to copy and distribute verbatim copies of this license
document, but changing it is not allowed.
This version of the GNU Lesser General Public License incorporates the terms
and conditions of version 3 of the GNU General Public License, supplemented
y the additional permissions listed below.
Cancel
jft Install System V2.46
Figure 4
I Agree
i Arduino Setup: Installation Options
Check the components you want to install and uncheck the components
you don't want to install. Click Next to continue.
Select components to install:
Space required: 254.9MB
5 Install Arduino software
0 Install USB driver
0 Create Start Menu shortcut
0 Create Desktop shortcut
0 Associate .ino files
Cancel I Mullsoft Install System v2.46
Figure 5
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6. In the Arduino Setup: Installation Folder window (Figure 6), click Install to install the
software at the default location.
7. When prompted (Figure 7), click Install to complete installation.
Consult the Arduino instructions at www.Arduino.cc/en/guide/Howto if you encounter any
problems with installation.
> Arduino Setup: Installation Folder
©Setup will install Arduino in the following folder. To install in a different
folder, dick Browse and select another folder. Click Install to start the
installation.
Destination Folder
Browse...
Space required; 254.9MB
Space available: 927.4GB
Caned
Nufeoft Install System v2A6
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ACCESS DOOR
CAUTION -RISK Of aECTRIC SHOCK
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Figure 8
3. Connect a USB cable to the Arduino USB port (Figure 10) and to a computer with the
Arduino software.
4. Launch the Arduino software by clicking on the Windows desktop icon that
was created during installation.
5. On the Tools tab, click Serial Port in order for the software to detect the
connected CSAM (Figure 11).
6. Click the magnifying glass in the top right corner (Figure 11) to open a window where the
data are reported on the screen in 5-minute averages, as shown in Figure 12.
The CSAM is now ready to record performance-check data as described in the following
procedures.
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1.0.5-r2
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^include 2, and temperature/RH—has four cells associated with it:
* Zero/Low Voltage: sensor output in millivolts (mV) while sensor is exposed to zero or a
very low level of what the sensor measures.
* Zero/Low Set Point: concentration corresponding to the zero/low voltage output.
* Span Voltage: sensor output at 80% of its full measurement range in millivolts.
<• Span Set Point: concentration corresponding to the span voltage output.
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M N
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
CSAM Unit
Start Check Date:
PM
Zero / Low Voltage
Zero /Low Set Point
Span Voltage
Span Set Point
End Check Date:
PM
Zero / Low Voltage
Zero / Low Set Point
Span Voltage
Span Set Point
NO,
mV Zero / Low Voltage
M-g/m3 Zero / Low Set Point
mV Span Voltage
Hg/m* Span Set Point
NO2
mV Zero / Low Voltage
ug/m3 Zero /Low Set Point
mV Span Voltage
ug/m5 Span Set Point
Load Data, Perform
mV
ppb
mV
ppb
mV
ppb
mV
ppb
04
Relative Humic
Zero / Low Voltage
Zero /Low Set Point
Span Voltage
Span Set Point
Relative Humic
Zero / Low Voltage
Zero /Low Set Point
Span Voltage
Span Set Point
ity
ity
Calculations, Graph Processe
Temperatun
mV Zero / Low Voltage
% Zero / Low Set Point
mV Span Voltage
% Span Set Point
Temperature
mV Zero / Low Voltage
% Zero / Low Set Point
mV Span Voltage
% Span Set Point
d Data
1
i
mV
°C
mV
°C
mV
°C
mV
°C
Figure 13
At the end of each performance check, the experienced operator should manually enter the
information into the appropriate spreadsheet cells. It is also recommended that the performance
information be recorded in a laboratory notebook and on the CSAM Monitoring Record (see the
CSAM Quality Assurance Guidelines). After the performance data has been entered, the citizen
scientists can then use the spreadsheet to load and process the collected data. The
spreadsheet automatically interprets the voltage data produced by the CSAM and converts it to
the measurement units required for processing and analyzing the data (NC>2 [ppb], PM [ug/m3],
temperature [°C], and RH [% at °C]).
The spreadsheet is locked for editing to prevent accidental modification. While the sheet is
locked, only the Load Data, Perform Calculations, Graph Processed Data button is
functional, and the rest of the sheet cannot be manipulated. Project leaders should use the
default password to unlock the file for entering performance-check data and then relock the file,
creating a new password, before citizen scientists use it to process the collected field data, as
described in the following procedures.
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Procedure: Unlock Spreadsheet
1. On the Review tab, click Unprotect Sheet, as shown in Figure 14.
Insert Page Layout Formulas Data
Spelling Research Thesaurus Translate New Delete
i Comment
Proofing Language
Y A
Show All Comments • dp Allow User? to Edit Ranges
Unprotect fl Protect Share Start
^heet Vorkbook Workbook Jfr Trade Changes *
2. When prompted for a password (Figure 15),
enter the default password "CSAMXX," where XX
is the two-digit serial number of the unit.
3. Click OK.
The spreadsheet is now ready for entering data.
Procedure: Relock Spreadsheet and Create New Password
1. On the Review tab, click Protect Sheet, as shown in Figure 16.
ABC t (4 I-1 I
Ttack Changes'
Figure 16
Start
Inking
Ink
2. In the Protect Sheet dialog box, make sure Select
unlocked cells is checked (Figure 17).
3. Enter a password in the Password to unprotect sheet
field.
4. Reenter the password when prompted, as shown in
Figure 18.
Protect Sheet
The spreadsheet is now ready
for use by the citizen scientists.
Confirm Password
Reenter password to proceed.
IT"
Caution: If you lose or forget the password, it cannot be
recovered. It is advisable to keep a list of passwords and
their corresponding workbook and sheet names in a safe
piace, (Remember that passwords are case-sensitive.)
•J Protect worksheet and contents of locked cells
Password to unprotect sheet
j
Format cells
Format columns
Format rows
; Insert columns
Insert rows
Insert hyperlinks
Delete columns
i Delete rows
Cancel
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Conducting the Performance Checks
The following procedures are to be performed
while the CSAM is running and connected to a
computer with the Arduino software installed
and open, as described in the CSAM Setup
section above, and the CSAM Data Analysis
[Serial No. XX].xlsm spreadsheet open. The
date of the checks should be typed into the
appropriate spreadsheet cell, either Start
Check Date or End Check Date.
During each check, the voltage values (mV)
are reported on the Arduino software screen in
5-minute averages, as shown in Figure 19. The
voltage values to be entered in the
spreadsheet for each check will be the last
values listed on the screen at the end of the designated testing period. The PM span voltage
and concentration values and all temperature and humidity data are preset in the spreadsheet.
Initializing the So card...card initalized.
10311501.txt
logging to: 1031150i.txt
Tiaestanp, PDR, CairClip, rH, Teicperature
10/31/2014 15:05:00, 0.00, 9.16, 396.68, 992.25
10/31/2014 15:10:00, 0.00, 9.20, 385.83, 992.25
Notoeendng „ 9600baud ,'
Procedure: Check CSAM NOz Zero and Span
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Use the supplied tubing to attach the unit to a source of zero air for the zero check
(Figure 20) and allow the unit to sample for 15 minutes.
Record the final zero voltage and concentration values in the appropriate spreadsheet
cells and on the CSAM Monitoring Record or other project documentation.
Attach the unit to a source of NC>2 (Figure 20) using Teflon tubing at a concentration that
is 80% of full range (upper range limit 250 ppb) for the span check and allow the unit to
sample for 15 minutes.
Record the final span voltage and
concentration values in the appropriate
spreadsheet cells and on the CSAM
Monitoring Record or other project
documentation.
If the results do not meet the quality
assurance requirements listed in
Table 2, return the CairPol CairClip to
the manufacturer for calibration.
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Procedure: Check CSAM PM Flow Rate
1. Attach the flow adaptor to the PM
cyclone inlet, as shown in
Figure 21, by fitting it over the inlet
and pressing until it fits securely.
2. Connect the supplied rotameter
with tubing attached to the
CSAM-PM inlet (Figure 22).
3. Allow the unit to sample at least 5
minutes or until the flow rate is
stable within 1.5 L/min ± 10%.
PM inlet
flow adaptor
4. If the value is outside the specified 1.5 L/min ± 10% limit, adjust the flow rate using the
set screw on the AirChek pump (Figure 23). Turn the screw clockwise to increase flow
and counterclockwise to decrease the flow.
5. After each adjustment allow the flow to stabilize for 5 minutes and reevaluate.
6. Record the final flow rate on the CSAM Monitoring Record or other project
documentation.
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Procedure: Check CSAM PM Zero
1.
2.
3.
4.
If not already in place, attach the
flow adaptor to the cyclone as
shown in Figure 21 in the
previous procedure.
Connect the supplied HEPA filter
with tubing attached to the
CSAM-PM inlet (Figure 24).
Allow the unit to sample through
the filter for 15 minutes.
Record the final zero voltage and enter zero (0) for the concentration value in the
appropriate spreadsheet cells and on the CSAM Monitoring Record or other project
documentation.
CSAM-NCh Maintenance
If the CSAM-NO2(CairClip) is regularly exposed to dust,
it is recommended that the removable filter be changed
every 4 months. The filter comes premounted in its
holder and is removed and replaced as a single unit
(Figure 25). The CairClip is contained in a protective
Teflon sleeve on the CSAM. In order to perform this
procedure, the CSAM must be opened and the CairClip
removed from the protective sleeve.
Procedure: Change CSAM NOz Filter
1. Disconnect the CSAM from its power supply.
2. Remove the CSAM cover using a Phillips screwdriver to loosen the screws of the
brackets and then sliding the brackets off the cover edges.
3. Hold onto the white mini USB cable on the front of the CSAM to prevent its fitting from
working loose, and from inside the CSAM gently wiggle the CairClip backwards until it
comes out of the sleeve (Figure 26).
4. Disconnect the mini USB cable.
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5. Insert the red dongle provided with the CSAM
into the CairClip as shown in Figure 27. The
dongle prevents the small fan inside the device
from turning.
6. Remove the filter/filter holder assembly from the
back of the CairClip by gently pulling the filter holder with your fingers.
7. Place a new filter/filter holder assembly into the opening and gently press until it is
secure.
8. After changing the filter, remove the red dongle and reconnect the mini USB cable to the
CairClip.
9. Align the USB plug with the cable insertion hole, and while feeding the mini USB cable
gently into the hole, reinsert the CairClip into the protective sleeve and gently but firmly
press the CairClip into the sleeve hole until it can go no further. Be sure the lateral hole,
shown in Figure 26 remains outside of the sleeve.
10. Close the unit by replacing the cover on the CSAM, refitting its brackets, and tightening
the screws.
11. Note the date of the filter change in a laboratory notebook or other designated project
documentation.
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Section 2: Field Operation
These procedures are expected to be carried out by volunteer citizen operators.
Field operation of the CSAMs is expected to be carried out by volunteer citizen scientists. The
citizen scientists setting up and attending to the CSAMs at field locations need to know how to
change and recharge the CSAM's battery, set up the unit properly at its outdoor or indoor
location, initiate data collection, and retrieve and process the data. The procedures in this section
detail the activities required for using the CSAM successfully for field data collection and
retrieval.
The CSAM is designed to run for one week (continuously for 7 days) on a fully charged battery.
Therefore, an operator should visit the test site at least once a week to replace and/or recharge
the battery, download data, and inspect the unit's functionality.
What You Will Need
Included in CSAM Package
CSAM
Access door key
Two standard size secure digital (SD) cards
SD card reader
AC-DC adapter with power supply cable or
CSAM battery pack
USB cable
Macro-enabled Microsoft Excel spreadsheet
created specifically for processing CSAM data
(on accompanying CD)
High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter
Teflon tubing and proper fittings (indoor setup)
Metal tubing protector (indoor setup)
Rain shield (outdoor setup)
Tripod (outdoor setup)
Battery charger
Not Included
Personal computer (PC) running a Windows
operating system (preferably Windows 7
or greater)
Arduino software (to be downloaded from the
Arduino web site - see procedure)
Microsoft Excel
Weatherstripping (indoor setup)
9/16-inch socket driver
Laboratory tape
Permanent marker
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Battery Changing and Charging
Changing and charging any battery should be performed with caution. The batteries used in the
CSAM (LiFePO4) carry a large amount of energy in a very small space. A damaged battery can
potentially cause explosion, fire, or burns. Inspect the batteries carefully on site visits, and
replace any battery that exhibits signs of malfunction such as smoke, excess heat, foul odor, etc.
Always completely remove the batteries from the battery case before charging.
Cautions
Always get rid of static electricity before touching electronics by touching a metal object
such as the CSAM case.
Do not short circuit the red (+) and black (-) terminals with any metal tools or objects.
Do not get the batteries wet.
Do not heat the batteries above 60 °C (140 °F) or expose it to fire.
Do not disassemble, crush, or modify the batteries.
Stop using a battery if you detect any unusual condition such as excess heat or foul odor,
or if you observe any physical damage.
Do not charge the battery while it is powering the CSAM.
Never charge the batteries while they are inside the battery case.
Procedure: Change Battery
1.
2.
Unplug the CSAM from the battery case (Figure 28).
Unlock both the top and bottom of the battery case
with the key provided (Figure 29). The case contains
two batteries labeled with a date written on laboratory
tape, two red cables, two black cables, and mounting
hardware.
Figure 29
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3. Check the date on the battery labels (Figure 30). If the CSAM is not expected to be
visited again before the date labeled on the batteries, the batteries must be changed.
4. Making sure not to short circuit the red (+) and black (-) terminals with any metal tools or
objects, disconnect the batteries from the unit by first disconnecting the black wire from
each battery (1, 2) and then the red wire from each battery (3, 4), as shown in Figure 30.
5. Loosen the bolts on the holding bracket by
turning them counterclockwise using a
9/16-inch socket driver (not provided) until
the bracket is loose enough for the
batteries to be lifted out of the case
(Figure 31).
6. Remove the batteries from the case and
set them aside.
7. Take two fully charged batteries out of the
boxes used for transport.
8. Using laboratory tape and a permanent
marker such as a Sharpie, add a label with
a date 7 days in the future. This date is the
latest these batteries should be attempted
to be used without being replaced or
recharged.
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9. Place the two fully charged batteries into the battery case, and place the holding bracket
around the bottom of the batteries, as shown in Figure 31.
10. Insert the bolts in the openings in the holding bracket and tighten by turning them
clockwise using the 9/16-inch socket driver until the batteries are held firmly in place.
11. Connect the batteries to the unit by first connecting the black wire from each battery
(1, 2) and then the red wire from each battery (3, 4) as shown in Figure 30.
12. Place the depleted batteries in the empty boxes that contained the fully charged
batteries for transport to the recharging location.
13. Close and lock the battery case.
14. Plug the CSAM into the battery case to resume operation.
15. Log the time and date of the battery change in the field operations notebook or other
designated project documentation.
Procedure: Charge Battery
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Place the battery to be charged
on a flat surface that is free of
clutter or debris within the
provided charger's reach of a
standard 110 V AC wall outlet.
Making sure not to short circuit
the red (+) and black (-) terminals with any metal
tools or objects, connect the black charger cable
to the black (-) terminal and the red charger cable
to the red (+) terminal.
Plug the charger into the 110 V AC standard wall
outlet (Figure 32). When the LED on the charger
turns green, the battery is fully charged. This can
take up to 20 hours per battery, but does not
require constant supervision.
When the battery is fully charged, unplug the
charger from the wall before disconnecting the
battery.
Disconnect the black charger cable from the black
(-) terminal and the red charger cable from the red
(+) terminal, making sure not to short circuit the
terminals with any metal tools or objects.
Cautions
Always connect the charger to the battery
before plugging it into the wall outlet.
After the battery is fully charged, be sure
to unplug the charger from the wall outlet
before disconnecting the battery.
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6. Label the battery "Full Charge" with the date using laboratory tape and a permanent
marker.
7. Place the battery in the battery box for storage and transport.
8. Repeat as needed until all batteries are fully charged.
CSAM Setup
The CSAM can be set up for outdoor or indoor use. See the Quality Assurance Guidelines for
site selection and positioning requirements for the CSAM unit. Sites should be selected by the
project team at the beginning of the project. The procedures provided here are for an outdoor
rooftop or ground location or for indoor window placement. The required equipment differs for
each location, as noted in "What You Will Need" at the beginning of this section.
Procedure: Place on Rooftop or Ground
1. Select a flat roof or ground location that has no obstructions within at least 3 meters
(10 feet) of the equipment. It should not be placed under trees or where water from
gutters or down spouts would impact it.
2. Make sure no electrical or physical hazards are in the immediate vicinity of the setup.
Select a location that is at least 1 meter from any vertical wall if at all possible so that air
flow around the monitor is not impeded.
3. Unfold the tripod, insert the mast pole into the top hole of the tripod, and extend the mast
downward until it rests on the surface of the rooftop or ground (Figure 33).
4. Screw in the two sets of fasteners around the mast until it is held securely.
5. Place the battery box at the bottom of the tripod and secure it to the tripod mast using
the cable with turnbuckle. The cable should be placed over a tripod brace, as shown in
Figure 33, and connected to the eyebolts on the battery case to prevent the setup from
tipping or blowing over. The cable can be tightened or loosened using the turnbuckle.
6. Once the tripod is secure, install the rain shield on the mast approximately 5 feet above
the surface of the roof by sliding the mast through the back of the shield and tighten the
bolts on the back (Figure 34) until the rain shield is secure.
7. Lift the top of the rain shield and push it backwards so it is out of the way when installing
the CSAM.
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Figure 33
8. Fasten the CSAM in the top mounting holes of the
rain shield (Figure 34) by placing the bolts
provided through the top mounting brackets of the
CSAM (Figure 34). The PM and NO2 inlets should
be pointing downwards and the access door
should be on top as shown in Figure 33. Make
sure the CSAM is centered over one of the tripod
legs to stabilize the setup and keep it from tipping
over.
9. When ready to initiate data collection, plug the
CSAM into the battery case.
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Procedure: Place in Window
1. Place the CSAM unit on a flat, stable surface near a
window.
2. Connect the provided Teflon tubing to the NC>2 inlet
as shown in Figure 36. Teflon or stainless steel is
the preferred tubing choice.
3. Connect the adaptor to the PM Inlet (Figure 37), and
then attach the provided tubing, as shown in
Figure 38.
PM inlet with flow
adaptor and tubing
4. Open the window and run
the sampling lines through
the metal tubing protector,
as shown in Figure 39, so
that the ends of the
sampling lines are outside
the window and the tubing
protector rests on the window sill. The tubing protector will prevent damage (such as
crushing or crimping) to the sampling lines when the window is closed.
5. Fill the opening between the sill and window sash
with weatherstripping (not provided) as needed to
prevent outside air from getting inside.
6. When ready to initiate data collection, plug the
CSAM into the battery case or use the provided
AC adaptor (Figure 40) to connect to a wall outlet.
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Routine Data Collection
Once the CSAM is set up properly, data collection can begin. The CSAM can collect data
continuously for 7 days on battery power. The unit automatically saves data files every 24 hours
at midnight, with file names based on the date and time (military) data collection began. For
example, the file name 12080000.TXT denotes that sampling for a 24-hour period began on
Decembers (1208) at midnight (0000). The following procedures will guide you through
initiating data collection and retrieving and processing the data.
Procedure: Collect Data
1. Connect the CSAM to a power supply either by
plugging the AC-DC adaptor into a wall outlet or by
plugging it into the CSAM battery pack.
2. Use the key provided with the CSAM unit to open
the access door (Figure 41).
3. Make sure the SD card is inserted properly into its
slot (Figure 42). The LED at the top right of the
access door (Figure 41) will light up if the card is
not inserted correctly.
4. Close and lock the access door and put the key in
a secure location.
The CSAM will begin taking data automatically. You
should hear the pumps making a quiet buzzing sound.
Procedure: Retrieve Data
Note: This procedure is required only if the CSAM unit will continue collecting data in the field. If
the unit is being removed from field operation, data retrieval can be carried out at the data
processing location.
1. Disconnect the CSAM from its power supply.
2. Open the access door (Figure 41). The CSAM will cease monitoring.
3. Pull out the SD card (Figure 42) for transport to the data processing location.
4. Insert a new SD card into the slot. If not properly inserted, the LED at the top right of the
access door (Figure 41) will illuminate.
5. Close and lock the access door to resume sampling.
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CITIZEN SCIENCE
Processing Data
This procedure explains how to create a new Excel spreadsheet for processing and interpreting
your collected data. A CD with a Microsoft Excel macro-enabled spreadsheet, CSAM Data
Analysis [Serial No. XX].xlsm, accompanies each CSAM (Figure 43). This spreadsheet was
created specifically for processing field data relative to the performance-check data, which
allows you to assess the quality and usability of the collected data. The CSAM unit's two-digit
serial number is part of the file name so that the spreadsheet can easily be matched with its
associated unit if more than one CSAM is deployed in the field.
The CSAM Data Analysis spreadsheet contains the performance-check data recorded at the
start, and possibly the end, of the study by an experienced operator. You will use this
spreadsheet in combination with the data text files generated by the CSAM to create the data-
processing spreadsheet, as described in the procedure below. The spreadsheet is locked so
that the performance-check data cannot be accidentally changed. The Load Data, Perform
Calculations, Graph Processed Data button is the only active part of the spreadsheet and is
all that is needed for creating the spreadsheet containing the processed data.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
A B C
Start Check Date:
PM
Zero / Low Voltage
Zero / Low Set Point
Span Voltage
Span Set Point
End Check Date:
• PM
Zero / Low Voltage
Zero / Low Set Point
Span Voltage
Span Set Point
D
mV
ug/m3
mV
Hg/m!
mV
ug/m!
mV
ug/m3
E F G
CSAM Unit
NO2
Zero / Low Voltage
Zero / Low Set Point
Span Voltage
Span Set Point
NO;
Zero / Low Voltage
Zero / Low Set Point
Span Voltage
Span Set Point
mV
ppb
mV
ppb
mV
ppb
mV
ppb
H
I
J
04
Relative Humic
Zero / Low Voltage
Zero / Low Set Point
Span Voltage
Span Set Point
Relative Humic
Zero / Low Voltage
Zero / Low Set Point
Span Voltage
Span Set Point
ity
ity
K L M , N
Temperature
mV Zero / Low Voltage
% Zero / Low Set Point
mV Span Voltage
% Span Set Point
Temperature
mV Zero / Low Voltage
% Zero / Low Set Point
mV Span Voltage
% Span Set Point
Load Data, Perform Calculations, Graph Processed Data
mV
°C
mV
"C
mV
°c
mV
°c
The new spreadsheet created during this procedure will be saved automatically in a folder named
CSAM Output in your main Documents folder. The spreadsheet file name will be based on the
time and date the spreadsheet was created. The example file used here to explain this procedure
is named (2014-Dec-17)14.36.37.ProcessedDataFile.xlsx.
24
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CITIZEN SCIENCE
This spreadsheet automatically converts the voltage data (raw data) produced by the CSAM to
the measurement units (final data) required for interpreting the data (NC>2 [ppb], PM [ug/m3],
temperature [°C], and RH [% at °C]). The generated spreadsheet has multiple tabs:
<• The Files tab (Figure 44) lists the data text files, in order by date and time created by the
CSAM, that were selected to be processed. This tab also shows where the newly
created spreadsheet was saved, i.e., Net My Documents\CSAM Output.
H (2014-Dec-17)14.36.37.ProcessedDataFile.xlsx - Excel ? ffl -
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G:\12090000.TXT
Output File saved to: Net MyDocuments\CSAM Output
Files jRaw Data Final Data | ... © • jTT
The Raw Data tab (Figure 45) shows the data recorded by the CSAM in its originally
collected format using the CSAM's programmed voltage values (mV).
BO B •
(2014-Dec-17)14.36.37.ProcessedDataFile.xl5x - Excel
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12/8/201415:55
12/8/2014 16:00
12/8/2014 16:05
12/8/2014 16:10
12/8/201416:15
12/8/2014 16:20
12/8/2014 16:25
12/8/2014 16:30
12/8/2014 16:35
12/8/2014 16:40
Files
pDR(mV) CairClip (mV) RH (mV) Temperature (mV)
674.24
677.34
676.11
675.48
697.86
719.45
716.59
692.54
689.59
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65.96 1463.74
82.12 1475.2
83.2 1485.79
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92.44 1507.57
71.17 1512.16
66.87 1516.56
66.4 1518
66.01 1520.6
67.01 1522.06
65.89 1527.59
Data
713.59
25
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CITIZEN SCIENCE
The Final Data tab (Figure 46) contains the processed data from all sensors reported in
the concentration and temperature and RH units needed for understanding the data.
(2014-Dec-17)14.36.37.ProcessedDataFile.xl5X - Excel
PAGE LAYOUT FORMULAS DATA REVIEW VIEW
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12/8/2014 16:00
12/8/201416:05
12/8/201416:10
12/8/201416:15
12/8/2014 16:20
12/8/201416:25
12/8/201416:30
12/8/201416:35
12/8/201416:40
pDR(tig/m3) CairClip (ppb) RH (%) Temperature (deg C)
13.48
13.55
13.52
13.51
13.96
14.39
14.33
13.85
13.79
13.81
13.32
Files Raw Data
The last four tabs—Temperature, RH, CairClip, and pDR—contain full-page graphs of
the data from each sensor. As an example, the graphed data from the RH sensor is
shown in Figure 47.
Ql H *> • (2014-Dec-17)14.36.37.ProcessedDataFile.xlsx-Excel ? EG - H X
HOME INSERT PAGE LAYOUT FORMULAS DATA REVIEW VIEW DEVELOPER Henkle, St.. -
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26
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CITIZEN SCIENCE
Procedure: Process Data
1. Plug the provided SD card reader into the
computer using a USB cable (Figure 48).
2. Insert the SD card into the reader.
3. Create a new folder on your computer to
contain the files.
4. Using Windows Explorer, transfer the files
from the SD card to the newly created folder.
5. After transferring the files, pull the SD card
out of the reader and reserve it for the next
use with the CSAM.
6. Open the CSAM Data Analysis.xlsm macro-
enabled Excel spreadsheet (Figure 43).
7. Click the Load Data, Perform Calculations,
Graph Processed Data button.
8. When prompted, select all the CSAM data
files you want to process at once by holding down the Shift or Control keys while
clicking each file.
9. Click OK. The new spreadsheet file of processed data will be created in your main
Documents folder as described above.
27
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CITIZEN SCIENCE
For Additional Help
CairPol, Technical Data Sheet CairClip NC>2, http://www.cairpol.com/images/pdf/NO2/technical
%20datasheet%20no2%2015072013.pdf, last accessed October 30, 2014.
Thermo Scientific Personal DataRAM pDFMOOOAN Instruction Manual,
http://www.envirosupply.net/manuals/ThermoElectron PersonalDataRAM pDR-1000AN-
1200.pdf, last accessed December 17, 2014.
Thermo Scientific Personal DataRAM pDR-1000AN Monitor brochure,
http://www.thermoscientific.com/en/product/personal-dataram-pdr-1000an-monitor.html, last
accessed December 17, 2014.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Citizen Science Toolbox, CSAM Quality Assurance
Guidelines, October 2014.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, What Are the Six Common Air Pollutants?
http://www.epa.gov/airquality/urbanair/, last accessed September 19, 2014.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, EPA Region 2 Citizen Science,
http://www.epa.gov/region2/citizenscience, last accessed October 29, 2014.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Air Sensor Guidebook, EPA 600/R-14/159, June 2014,
Office of Research and Development, National Exposure Research Laboratory,
http://www.epa.gov/airscience/docs/air-sensor-guidebook.pdf, last accessed October 30, 2014.
The purpose of this document is to provide general operating guidelines, and
the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) does not assume any liability
regarding any aspect of its use. Reference herein to any specific commercial
products, process, or service by trade name, trademark, manufacturer, or
otherwise does not necessarily constitute or imply its endorsement,
recommendation, or favoring by EPA. The views and opinions of authors
expressed herein do not necessarily state or reflect those of EPA and shall not
be used for advertising or product endorsement purposes. EPA assumes no
liability associated with any errors in the suggested procedures, errors
potentially made by the instrument in question, user misuse of the instruments
or data collected, or costs due to any damage the instrument might experience
under any circumstance or use. This user guide is specific to the make/model
and version number of the instrument identified in the document and is not
generalizable to any other sensor. The users should understand that they
should develop operating guidelines specific to their own research needs, and
any general document of this nature would be limited in meeting their full need.
28
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£EPA
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
PRESORTED STANDARD
POSTAGE & FEES PAID
EPA
PERMIT NO. G-35
Office of Research and Development (8101R)
Washington, DC 20460
Official Business
Penalty for Private Use
$300
Recycled/Recyclable Printed on paper that contains a minimum of
50% postconsumer fiber content processed chlorine free
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Attachment D ICC_EPA_RARE Training Agenda
Agenda for January 22 CSAM Training
ICC, EPA Region 2, EPA ORD
Time
9:30—9:45
9:45—10:30
10:30—11:00
11:00—11:30
11:30—12:15
12:15—1:00
1:00—2:30
2:30—3:30
3:30—4:00
4:00—4:30
4:30—5:00
Activity
Project Overview
Assembly Example
Components and Flow
Battery and Electrical Safety
Data Collection
Lunch
Re — Assembly Practice
Output Datasets and Software
How to Move Instruments
Siting Considerations
Troubleshooting and FAQs
Agenda is subject to change; times are estimates. Overview in morning; hands-on experience in afternoon.
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1. Project Overview
a. Pollutants measured
b. Data considerations (e.g., benefits/limitations of sensors)
c. Context of measurements - sources, sites, potential exposures, interpretation, etc.
2. Assembly Example
a. One CSAM unit will be unboxed and ready for assembly with all components laid
out in a manner to easily demonstrate how a CSAM would be assembled in the
field.
b. Starting with the monitoring stand itself, describe its features, caveats, and how
other parts integrate with it.
c. Assemble the stand, rain shield and place a battery box in its normal position
and describe its features, caveats, and integration with other parts.
3. Components and Flow
a. Next, take the cover off a CSAM unit and describe its features to the group. Work
first on the outside of the box. Name each part and its function. Describe how to use
each part (and when).
b. Next, name and describe each component of the electrical input connector. Describe
how people can use either the battery connection or the AC/DC adapter. Talk about
electrical safety and the components of the interior. Describe where energized
circuits are and how one should always be cautious around any energized circuits.
Indicate no beverages should be handled when working with the CSAM (open or
closed). Indicate that users should get rid of static electricity before they do anything
with the unit. Show them how to get rid of static electricity by making contact with
a grounded component of the monitoring stand. This is especially vital before touch
the Arduino and the data card.
c. Next, name and trace (visually with your finger) how air comes into the CairClip.
Describe how this is an active sampler and air is pulled into the unit through the
Teflon fitting/snorkel tube.
d. Show how the snorkel tube would be connected. Instruct them that Teflon
Swagelok fittings need to be handled carefully and that all they need to do is turn it
until is it snug (finger tight). Make sure that you have the proper Swagelok ferrule
and nut on the Teflon tubing; otherwise, you will not be able to show how the
tubing is actually connected. The ferrule should be set in advance at the proper
depth before attempting to show this action.
e. Describe the fact that there is a short time delay between air coming into the tubing
and it being detected. You should be able to describe this in exact seconds after the
units are challenged in the lab. They will need this offset value, which should be
approximately ~ 1 minute.
f Describe how there is an internal particulate matter filter in the CairClip and that it
has to be changed every 4 months if it was operating 24 hours/day. Show where that
filter is located and how to get to it. There is no way of determining when the filter
needs changing (there is no diagnostic) but the 24 hr/4 months rule should be
applied. This would equate to ~ 2880 hours of sensor run time. Describe the fact
that to zero or calibrate the CairClip, one would have to either place the device in a
89
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chamber or provide challenge gas to it via the snorkel tubing.
g. Trace the flow of particles into the BGI cyclone through the pDR to the HEPA filter
and the SKC pump. Describe the fact that the intake of the cyclone is not visible.
Describe how a cyclone works and that the "cup" should be removed and blown out
at least monthly. They may or may not actually see large particles in the cup under
normal use.
h. Instruct about the need to ensure proper connections between the cyclone, pDR,
pump, and all tubing. The interior of the unit should be inspected after every 7 days
of operation as a general practice to check for good connections, wiring harnesses,
etc.
i. Instruct on how they should connect a zero calibration device to the cyclone. Say
that it is needed to both check flow rate as well as to perform the zeroing activities.
j. With the CSAM now energized, demonstrate how to adjust flow rate to 1.5 1pm.
Next, show how to do a zeroing activity. Show how the snorkel tube must be
connected to the calibration cap for it to be used.
k. Closing up the CSAM unit, show how to connect it to a stand.
Battery and Electrical Safety
a. Connect the unit to a power supply (battery box). With one of the other CSAM
battery boxes, show how to recharge the li-ion batteries and for how long they
should be recharged.
b. Describe the recharge time and general safety considerations associated with
any recharge event (excessive heat, smoke, melting of wires, etc) should be
checked for each time a recharge event takes place.
c. Describe the fact that li-ion batteries are different from standard lead—acid batteries
and behave differently (poorly) if taken to too low a power state.
d. For the purposes of this work, a 7-day operation schedule should be used.
Data Collection
a. Using the Operating Procedure, work through each step of data collection and
data recovery.
b. Talk about the operation of the door, the micro—switch, and the SD card.
c. Indicate the automatic start and stop of the unit when the door is closed or open.
d. Instruct on what a pDR measures (light scattering) and that an algorithm (internal)
has been established for the unit to estimate ug/m3 of PM25. Even so, they should
establish a regression equation using data from the CSAM (24-hr averages) with
the local air monitoring station involving at least 7 days of operation (7 data
points). The resulting equation should then be applied to the raw CSAM data
when they use it to "normalize" the response to local aerosol properties.
e. Ensure that one of the SD cards in one of the CSAM units has data on it. Show
how to pull out the card from the circuit.
f Talk about the SD card reader and its connection to a PC.
Re-Assembly Practice
a. Disassemble all instruments during lunch, and then have participants re-assemble them
b. Take the unit you assembled during the class apart and then have participants
assemble the unit in good working order. Start first with the physical stuff
90
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(stand/rain shield, battery box) and then integration of the CSAM unit on the stand.
c. Go through a complete cycle of start-up, take down, data recovery, etc.
7. Output Datasets and Software
a. Working through the operating procedure, instruct on how to download the
Arduino software.
b. Demonstrate how the zero and calibration macro components work. Describe the
fact that putting in the wrong values in that step would have serious impacts on the
data as the macro uses that information to establish the algorithm being applied.
c. Recover the data file and execute the macro so that data is visualized.
d. Discuss how the data file should be saved.
e. Discuss cleaning the SD card (deleting the original file) only after duplicate copies
of the original data exist preferably on two devices (it could be two flash drives,
one computer/one flash drive, two computers, etc).
8. How to Move Instruments
a. Describe sensitivity of scientific instrumentation
b. Discuss best practices for handling, packing, and assembling CSAM units
9. Siting Considerations
a. Discuss siting of CSAM with respect to intake tubes
b. Discuss installation of units to ensure proper collection of measurements
10. Troubleshooting and FAQs
a. What happens in very cold weather?
91
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EPA 600/R-15/008
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Appendix B: CSAM Quality Assurance Guidelines
CITIZEN SCIENCE
AIR MONITOR (CSAM)
National Exposure Research Laboratory
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CITIZEN SCIENCE
CSAM
Contents
The Citizen Science Toolbox 2
What Is Quality Assurance? 2
CSAM Components 3
CSAM-NO2 3
CSAM-PM 4
Temperature and Relative Humidity. 4
Microprocessor 4
Important Considerations for Air Monitor Placement 6
Performance Goals 7
Performance Characteristics That Affect Data Quality 7
Sensor Performance Goals for Citizen Science Applications 11
CSAM Performance Checks 12
Range 13
Calibration 13
Service Schedule 14
Documents and Records 14
For Additional Help 17
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CITIZEN SCIENCE
CSAM
The Citizen Science Toolbox
Many communities in the United States are potentially impacted by a wide variety of
environmental pollution sources. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) encourages
communities to advocate for environmental and public health mitigations and to raise
awareness of air pollution issues. To this end, EPA promotes citizen science to involve citizens
in collecting environmental data of importance to their families and communities.
The Ironbound Community Corporation (ICC) Community Advisory Board (CAB) in Newark, NJ,
is committed to improving air quality for thousands of Newark residents who suffer from
potential cumulative impacts of major industrial and port-related pollution sources on human
health and the environment. EPA Region 2, the EPA region that serves Newark, has been a
leader in EPA's efforts to promote citizen science. For this project, these two groups—the ICC
CAB and EPA Region 2—are working together to initiate a community-based environmental
monitoring study.
As part of this study, EPA is developing a Citizen Science Toolbox that contains the tools and
information needed for the ICC CAB citizens to collect pollution data for nitrogen dioxide (NCb)
and particulate matter (PM), two types of air pollution that can have significant adverse health
effects. Citizen volunteers will use a monitoring device called the Citizen Science Air Monitor
(CSAM), which was designed and constructed by EPA for use by citizen volunteers. The
documentation in this project's Citizen Science Toolbox was created specifically for use of the
CSAM and includes an operating procedure, which provides information on how to set up the
instrument and collect and process data, and these quality assurance (QA) guidelines, which
offer basic information and considerations for collecting meaningful data. EPA Region 2
personnel will provide technical support as needed to the ICC CAB throughout the project.
This collaborative project will benefit both the Newark community and EPA. It will help the ICC
CAB identify pollutants in its community that are of concern for both human health and the
environment. The effort also will further EPA's aims of building community capacity for
conducting environmental monitoring studies and will form the foundation for Region 2's Air
Sensor Loan Program that will enable other community groups with similar concerns about air
pollution in their neighborhoods.
What Is Quality Assurance?
Quality assurance is the process by which you determine if the environmental data collected in
your monitoring project are credible and usable. The quality assurance process involves several
steps, which EPA has termed PIE—Planning + Implementing + Evaluating. Each piece of PIE is
vital to achieving quality results from your project. These quality assurance guidelines focus on
specific CSAM requirements and are not meant to fully capture everything you need to know
about conducting a credible air monitoring study. To learn more about planning and
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CITIZEN SCIENCE
CSAM
implementing your project and assuring the quality of the collected data, visit the following EPA
web pages:
<• Air Sensor Toolbox for Citizen Scientists—general tools and information for conducting a
Citizen Science air monitoring project (http://www.epa.gov/heasd/airsensortoolbox).
* EPA's Air Sensors Guidebook—what sensor users need to understand if they are to
collect meaningful air quality data (http://www.epa.gov/airscience/docs/air-sensor-
guidebook.pdf).
* EPA Region 2 Citizen Science—guidelines for planning-implementing-evaluating and
developing a quality assurance project plan (http://www.epa.gov/region2/citizenscience)
CSAM Components
The CSAM simultaneously measures NC>2 and PM along with temperature and relative humidity
(RH). NC>2 and PM are pollutants of concern in the ambient environment because of the adverse
health risks they pose, as described below. (For more information on these air pollutants visit
http://www.epa.gov/airguality/urbanair/and http://www.epa.gov/air/criteria.html.) While the
CSAM is designed for easy operation and retrieval of data for all measurements at once (see
the CSAM Operating Procedure), the unit consists of several components that generate the
data. Citizen volunteers will not need to operate each component of the CSAM separately, but a
general knowledge of the components that make up the CSAM will aid in understanding the
requirements for data quality. Figure 1 shows the inside of the CSAM unit and its separate
components. Each of these components is described in detail in the following subsections.
Table 1 lists the measurement units reported by each component.
CSAM-NOi
NC>2 is a highly reactive gas that can irritate the lungs and cause bronchitis, pneumonia, and
other respiratory problems. NC>2 pollution is both man-made and naturally occurring. It occurs
naturally as a result of atmospheric processes. It also forms from fuel combustion and forms
quickly from automobile emissions. Therefore, significant increases in NC>2 concentrations are
often found near major roadways. Power plants and other industrial processes also emit NC>2.
CSAM measurements of NC>2 are made using a CairPol CairClip NC>2 sensor
(http://www.cairpol.com/index.php?option=com content&view=article&id=41<emid=156&lang=
en). The CairClip uses a gas-specific inlet filter combined with dynamic air sampling in an
integrated system to measure real-time gas concentration in parts per billion (ppb). The CSAM-
NC>2 unit's detection limit—the lowest concentration the instrument is likely to detect is
approximately 20 ppb NC>2.
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CITIZEN SCIENCE
CSAM
CSAM-PM
PM consists of particles of various sizes such as soot, smoke, dirt, and dust. These particles are
often generated and released into the air from sources such as power plants, industrial and
agricultural processes, automobiles, and fires. PM can adversely affect breathing and aggravate
respiratory and cardiovascular conditions, with the smallest particles posing the greatest health
risk. PM also contributes to atmospheric haze that reduces visibility.
The CSAM-PM component measures real-time PM in micrograms per cubic meter (ug/m3) using
a Thermo Scientific personal DataRAM nephelometer, a device that uses light to measure the
concentration of suspended particles in a liquid or gas. Air is pumped to the nephelometer by an
SKC AirChek 52 personal sampling pump. The nephelometer uses a BGI sharp-cut cyclone
inlet (SCC 1.062), which excludes particles with a diameter above a certain size. In this case,
the CSAM-PM samples for PM2.5, which consists of particles less than 2.5 micrometers in
diameter, or "fine" particles. Fine particles come from all types of combustion activities, such as
motor vehicles, power plants, and wood burning, and pose the greatest health risk because they
can lodge deeply in the lungs. The CSAM-PM unit operates at a flow rate of 1.5 liters per minute
(L/min). It is important to understand that a change in flow rate will change the diameter of the
particles being sampled and thus affect data quality. If a change in flow rate is noted, the unit
should be removed from operation, and an experienced operator should perform the flow rate
check and adjustment detailed in the CSAM Operating Procedure. The CSAM-PM has a
detection limit of 0.1 ug/m3.
Temperature and Relative Humidity
The CSAM also contains a Honeywell temperature and RH sensor (HIH-4602-A/C series).
Temperature (°C) and RH (% at °C) data are recorded along with the PM and NC>2 concentration
data. The recommended operating ranges for temperature and RH are 0-40 °C (32-104 °F) and
0-90% RH (with no formation of water droplets), respectively. Abrupt changes in temperature
and RH can affect the performance of your CSAM, particularly the CSAM-NO2 sensor
component. Therefore, temperature and RH data collected concurrently with concentration data
can help you recognize any performance issues caused by environmental conditions.
Microprocessor
Data from all components—PM, NC>2, and temperature and RH—are collected and stored using
an Arduino Uno microprocessor. The Arduino Uno has a USB connection and a power jack.
This microprocessor uses software developed by EPA to allow operators to retrieve all data
from the unit in one easy step. Data will be stored on a secure digital (SD) memory card located
in the microprocessor that the citizen operators access and remove for data download as
described in the CSAM Operating Procedure.
4
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CITIZEN SCIENCE
CSAM
BGI sharp-cut
cyclone inlet
personal DataRAM
nephelometer
Call-Clip
sensor
Ardumo Uno
microprocessor
AirChek52
sampling pump
Honeywell
temp/RH
sensor
Figure 1
Measurement
Reporting Unit
N02 concentration Parts per billion (ppb)
PM concentration Micrograms per cubic meter (ug/m3)
Temperature Degrees Celsius (°C)
Relative humidity (RH) Percent (%) at °C
Table 1
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CITIZEN SCIENCE
CSAM
Important Considerations for Air Monitor Placement
Appropriate placement of air monitoring devices is critical for collecting useful data. Air pollution
concentrations can vary considerably due to factors such as proximity of the pollutant sources,
buildings and other obstructions, and atmospheric conditions. For these reasons, you must plan
monitoring locations carefully to make sure the collected data are representative of the
community you are monitoring and that meet your study objectives. EPA Region 2 and the
Ironbound CAG will work together to identify the CSAM locations for this study. The following
are some important considerations for choosing representative sampling sites:
•J* Local atmospheric conditions. Factors such as rain, wind, sunlight, clouds,
temperature, and humidity can affect your CSAM data.
• Make sure the unit is protected from the effects of weather using the individual
EPA-developed aluminum shields that accompany your CSAM unit.
• Temperature and humidity can particularly affect the performance of the CSAM.
The recommended operating ranges for temperature and RH are 0-40 °C
(32-104 °F) and 0-90% RH (with no formation of water droplets), respectively.
• Wind speed and direction can also affect CSAM measurements. For example,
stagnant air can lead to pollutant concentrations that gradually increase, whereas
strong winds can decrease concentrations by spreading pollutants over a larger
area. Higher winds can also lead to higher concentrations of other pollutants
such as dust. Wind direction can affect your results by increasing or decreasing
concentrations depending on whether your air monitor is located upwind or
downwind of the prevailing wind at the time of data collection. Understanding the
effects of wind can aid in choosing a monitoring site and in recognizing when
your results might have been affected by wind.
<• Primary or secondary source. Some pollutants are emitted directly by a source
(primary pollutants), while others are formed as the products of chemical reactions in the
air (secondary pollutants). Primary pollutants are often more localized (i.e., near the
source) and can have a greater variability over distances than secondary pollutants. It is
important to consider whether a pollutant of interest is primary or secondary when
deciding where and how to collect monitoring data. More information can be found at:
http://www.epa.gov/air/criteria.html.
*»• Location of pollutant sources relative to the pollutant of interest. NC>2 and PM, for
instance, might have much higher concentrations closer to a roadway as both come from
automobile emissions. If you want to find out how a roadway influences NC>2 and PM
concentrations, you could locate one CSAM close to the road and one some distance
downwind of the roadway to determine the changes in concentrations.
<• Location of the air monitor relative to the exposed population. If the aim of your
study, for example, is to measure the impact of industrial emissions of NC>2 and PM on a
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particular neighborhood, the CSAMs could be placed within the neighborhood at varying
distances from the facility rather.
*»* Air flow. Make sure air flows freely to your CSAM unit by placing it far enough away
from the ground (at least 1 meter above the surface) and away from building surfaces,
trees, or any other obstructions to flow (ideally at least 1 meter away).
•5* Reactions and interferences. Sensors can experience interference from other
chemicals in the atmosphere, as well as heat and cold, which can lead to erroneous
concentration estimates. Avoid placing the CSAM near sources of heat or cold and
gases that can react with the pollutant of interest. Possible interferences for the CSAM-
NC>2 component include high concentrations of chlorine (a commonly used disinfectant
for swimming pools) and ozone (often formed during warm, dry, and cloudless days with
low wind speeds).
EPA's Air Sensor Guidebook provides additional details and considerations for choosing sites
for air monitoring studies (http://www.epa.gov/airscience/docs/air-sensor-guidebook.pdf).
Performance Goals
The performance of an air sensor or instrument describes its overall ability to measure air
pollution. For your data to be useful in meeting any objective, be sure your expectations for the
data collected with the CSAMs are well defined. These expectations are the performance goals
of the measurement system. The quality of data collected with sensors can vary greatly
depending on sensor design and performance characteristics as well as your deployment
strategy. In addition, acquiring meaningful data relies on proper operation and response of the
air monitoring instrument, which must be checked and maintained regularly to continuously
produce quality results. The following subsections describe general performance considerations
you should keep in mind while conducting an air monitoring study, the level of quality assurance
needed based on your intended application, and specific CSAM performance requirements.
Performance Characteristics That Affect Data Quality
A broad range of performance-related characteristics can affect data quality. The performance
characteristics listed in Table 2 are applicable to air monitoring systems in general. A familiarity
with these characteristics will allow you to assess if your air monitoring device is generating
usable data throughout the study.
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Evaluating Data Quality
Performance Characteristic
Bias
Precision
Calibration
Detection limit
Response time
Linearity of response
Measurement duration
Measurement frequency
Data aggregation
Selectivity/specificity
Interferences
Sensor poisoning and expiration
Concentration range
Drift
Accuracy of timestamp
Climate susceptibility
Data completeness
Response to loss of power
Assessment
Is measurement routinely high or low with respect to the true value?
How repeatable is the measurement?
Does device respond in a systematic fashion as concentration changes?
How low and high will the device measure successfully?
How fast does the response vary with concentration change?
What is the linear or multilinear range?
How much data do you need to collect?
How many collection periods are needed?
Value in aggregating data (e.g., 1 second, 1 minute, 1 hour)
Does it respond to anything else?
How does heat and cold affect response?
How long will the sensor be useful?
Will the device cover expected highs and lows?
How stable is the response?
What response output relates to the event?
Does RH, temperature, direct sun, etc., impact data?
What is the uptime of the sensor?
What happens when it shuts down?
Table 2
All of the concepts described above are discussed in detail in the Air Sensor Guidebook
(http://www.epa.gov/airscience/docs/air-sensor-guidebook.pdf).
An understanding of the following terms is helpful in setting your performance goals and
assessing whether the collected data meet these goals:
* Accuracy: Accuracy is the overall agreement of an instrument's measurement to the
true value obtained with an accepted reference method. Accuracy is a measure of the
bias, or systematic error, in a system.
Accuracy = average value - true value
<• Precision: Precision refers to how well the sensor reproduces the measurement of a
pollutant under identical circumstances.
Precision = (standard deviation /average of replicates) x 100,
where standard deviation is the range of variation in the measurements taken and
replicate samples are two or more samples taken from the same place at the same time.
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You should be aware that a sensor's accuracy and precision can change over time. For
example, exposure to rapidly changing temperatures or humidity might lead to a gradual change
in response, also known as drift.
Tables 3,4,and 5 show manufacturer's specifications for the CairClip NC>2 sensor, the personal
Data RAM (PDR) PM sensor, and the AirChek 52 sampling pump.
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AIR
Table 3
POL
MINIATURF AIR QUALITY MONITORING SYSTEMS
P061DOZ.Tcchnical.Daia Sheel.NO2 160812
Technical Data Sheet CairClip
((locumi'iil [Horn- lo ni
(preliminary version)
iiHlU'k-allniis)
Range
Limit of detection (1-2)
Repeatability at zero (1-2t
Repeatability at 40% of range "-2)
Linearity "• -'
Unce.rtainty
Short tenn zero drift "•-•'"
Short term span drift "-2-41
Long term zero drift "- 2- 1I
Long term span drift (I-2-^
Risctimomo-50)"--'
Kail time (TlIl-50)"-2'
Effect of interfering species (li
Temperature effect on sensitivity (2)
Temperature effect on zero ' -'
Maximum exposure
Annual exposure limit (I hour average)
Annual exposure limitfl hour average)
Operating conditions
Recommended storage conditions
Power supply ^
Communication interface
Dimensions
Weight
Protection
Electrical certification
Parameters Set up Downloading
0-250 ppb (0-240 ppb analog)
20ppb
+ ;-7 ppb
+/-15%
< 10%
<30%°-:!>
< 5 ppb / 24 H
<1%FS'"/24H
< 10 ppb / 1 month
<2%FS151/ 1 month
QOs i 1 SOs if largo variation ol'RII)
< 90s (1 80s il'large variation ol'RH)
Ch: around 80%
Reduced sulphur compounds : negative interference
Qi : possible interferences if high concentration
<0.5°/./"C
• t- 50 ppb maximum under operating conditions
50 ppm
78il ppm (NO,)
1 SO ppm of oxidant species (Oj eq.)
- 20°C to 40 :C / 10 to 90% RH non-condensing
1013mbar+''-20rimbar
Temperature: between 5"C and 20r'C
Air relative humidity: > 15% non-condensing
-Ambient air free from Oj
5 \T)C ':00 mA (rechargeable by USB via PC
or 100 V-240 V/5 V 0.8 A-l -0 A with adapter)
USB, UART
Analog (UART & 4-20 mA / 0-5 V converter)
Diameter: 32mm - Length 6 m
55g
IP42 (according IEC60529)
.(tjb). Conform to UL Std. 61010-1 ,- r
sUf Certified to CSA Std. C22.2N0. 61010-1 *"*
••'.'J'^12
CairSoft
'Accwding to our operating cvndiiioividunng tests in laboratory: 20*C ~l- 2*C / 50^-yRH +/- 10%'' 1013 mbar +/- 5
-' Values possibly affected by exposures lo liigiigmdit-nlsofcoitcentr'alion
} In accordance with the Directive lOO&'SQ'ECoffhe European Parliament and of the Council of 21 May 200S on ambient air qualify and cleaner air for Europe
* Full seal? continuous exposure
: PS = Full Scale
: Tlie cornplete dischai-gv of a device /screen turned offl can lead to a deterioration ofityperfonnances
For an optimal quality of use, please keep the Cairclip in a vertical position in accordance with indications on the ilevice
M\y use of llie sensor not complying with (lie conditions specified in herein, including exposures, even short ones .to environments oilier than anibienl air. lo dry and /
or devoid of oxygen air or olhcr atmosphere not composed in majority'of air. even during calibration, will invalidate the warranty.
Main options
CairTub: autonomy 21 days
CairNet: wireless communication & battery powered by solar panel
Software: CairSoft, CairMap. CairWeb
Office: CAIRPOJL
ZAC du Capra
55. avenue Emile Antoine
30340 Mejannes les Ales - France
SARL au capital de 354 2006 - N° Siren: 492 976 253
Tel: +33 (0)4 66 S3 37 56
Fax: +33 (0)4 66 61 82 53
inlbi'«!cairpol.com
Web site: www.cairpol.com
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persona/Data RAM (PDR) Manufacturer's Suggested Specifications
Concentration Measurement Range
Scattering Coefficient Range
Precision / Repeatability Over 30 Days (2-sigma)
Accuracy
Resolution
Particle Size Range of Maximum Response
Operating Environment
0.0001 to 400 mg/m3
1 .5 x 1 0-6 to 0.6 nr1 (approx.) @ A=880 nm
±2% of reading or ±0.005 mg/m3, whichever is
larger, for 1-sec averaging time
±0.5% of reading or ±0.001 5 mg/m3, whichever is
larger, for 10-sec averaging time
±0.2% of reading or ±0.0005 mg/m3, whichever is
larger, for 60-sec averaging time
±5% of reading ± precision
0.1 % of reading or 0.001 mg/m3, whichever is
larger
0.1 to 10 urn
14 to 122F(-10to50C), 10 to 95% RH non
condensing
AirChek 52 Personal Sample Pump Manufacturer's Suggested Specifications
Flow Range
Flow Control
Compensation Range
Temperature
Humidity
Noise Level
1000 to 3000 ml/min
Holds constant flow to ± 5% of set-point after
calibration
1000 ml/min up to 25 ins water back pressure
2000 ml/min up to 25 ins water back pressure
Operating: 32 to 1 1 3 F (0 to 45 C)
0 to 95% non-condensing
62.5 dBA - pump without case
Table 5
Sensor Performance Goals for Citizen Science Applications
The aim of your project and the intended use of its data will dictate your performance goals.
EPA has suggested the following broad application areas, or tiers, for citizen science projects:
<• Education and information (Tier I): uses sensors as teaching tools
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Hotspot identification and characterization (Tier II): uses fixed locations and/or mobile
sensor systems to map pollutants and determine emission sources
Supplementary network monitoring (Tier
existing network of air quality monitors
): uses air sensor systems to complement an
<• Personal exposure monitoring (Tier IV): uses sensors in applications to monitor a
person's exposure to air pollution, often to evaluate the impact of air pollution on health
<• Regulatory monitoring (Tier V): uses sensors to monitor pollutants to determine if an
area is in compliance with the National Ambient Air Quality Standards
Each tier requires progressively more detailed technical considerations and higher data quality
expectations. These tiers are listed and briefly described in Table 6. Note that only Tiers I
through IV are listed and discussed here as no low-cost sensors, including the CSAM unit, meet
the regulatory monitoring requirements. For more information on these tiers and potential air
monitoring applications, see EPA's Air Sensors Guidebook (http://www.epa.gov/airscience/docs/
air-sensor-quidebook.pdf).
Tier Application Area
Education,
information, and
community organizing
and advocacy
Hotspot identification
and characterization
Supplementary
network monitoring
Pollutants
All
All
Criteria pollutants
and air toxics
including VOCs
Precision and Data
Bias Error Completeness
< 50%
< 30%
< 20%
> 50%
> 75%
> 80%
IV
Personal exposure
monitoring
All
< 30%
> 80%
Rationale
Measurement error is not as important as simply
demonstrating that the pollutant exists in some
wide range of concentration.
Higher data quality is needed here to ensure that
not only does the pollutant of interest exist in the
local atmosphere, but also at a concentration that
is close to its true value.
Supplemental monitoring might have value in
potentially providing additional air quality data to
complement existing monitors. To be useful in
providing such complementary data, it must be of
sufficient quality to ensure that the additional
information is helping to "fill in" monitoring gaps
rather than making the situation less understood.
Many factors can influence personal exposures to
air pollutants. Precision and bias errors
suggested here are representative of those
reported in the scientific literature under a variety
of circumstances. Error rates higher than these
make it difficult to understand how, when, and
why personal exposures have occurred.
Table 6
CSAM Performance Checks
The CSAM requires several performance checks, conducted by Region 2 technical staff, to
make sure the instrument will produce the desired results during the study. It is recommended
that these checks be performed before deploying the instrument in the field and after it is
removed from the field at the end of the study. If at any time, an operator suspects a CSAM is
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CSAM
not functioning properly, it should be removed from operation and returned to Region 2 technical
staff.
Table 7 identifies the three recommended checks—zero and span drift for the CSAM-NO2 and
flow rate and zero drift for the CSAM-PM—and the acceptable ranges for accuracy and
precision for CSAM applications. This information is being provided to citizen scientists for
informational purposes only. Only an experienced operator should perform these procedures
before sensors are distributed. Zero and span drift checks verify that the monitor is functioning
within the operating range and that it responds with the desired sensitivity to changes in input
concentration. The flow rate check verifies the rate at which the sample gas flows through the
instrument. The flow rate is checked using a flow meter to ensure that the monitor is receiving
the proper amount of air to collect a representative sample.
Measurement Performance
(Sensor) Check
NO, concentration
(CSAM-N02) Zero/span drift
PM concentration Flow rate
(CSAM-PM) Zero drift
Temperature/RH Compared with
(Honeywell sensor) local data*
Accuracy
± 20%
1.5L/min±10%
< 20% of ambient
± 5% (temp)
±10%(RH)
Precision
± 20%
± 10%
±10%
± 2% (temp)
± 5% (RH)
Corrective Action
(by an Experienced Operator)
Perform calibration and
troubleshooting
Adjust set screw on pump
Perform troubleshooting
Perform troubleshooting
The following web sites are sources of local weather data:
http://www.weather.eom/weather/hourbvhour/l/USNJ0355:l:US
http://wl.weather.Rov/obhistorv/KEWR.html
Range
Table 7
Environmental pollutants are often present in very low concentrations, particularly when
measurements are being made far from the source of the pollution. The CSAM is most useful
when it is able to measure its target pollutants over the full range of concentrations commonly
found in the atmosphere. The expected operational range for the CSAM-NO2 is 20-200 ppb,
and for the CSAM-PM it is 0.1-200 |o,g/m3. If you think your CSAM is not functioning properly,
return the instrument to EPA Region 2 for assessment.
Calibration
Some sensors come with an "expiration date," after which its measurements are likely no longer
accurate. The expiration date indicates when the device requires calibration. Calibration is the
process of checking and adjusting an instrument's measurements to ensure it is reporting
accurate data. During the calibration process, the response of the instrument is compared with a
known reference value.
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CSAM
The life expectancy of the CSAM is 1 year. After this time, the unit might begin producing
unreliable results. The CSAM-NO2(CairClip) is delivered calibrated and does not need
recalibration for 1 year as long as the sensor maintains the operating conditions listed in its data
sheet (Table 3). The CSAM-PM is also delivered calibrated. Remember, however, that the
CSAM-PM operates at a flow rate of 1.5 L/min and that a change in the flow rate will change the
diameter of the particles being sampled. If you detect a change in the flow rate, return the
instrument to EPA Region 2 for a flow rate adjustment.
Service Schedule
Air monitoring devices require careful care and maintenance to ensure proper functionality and
reliable performance. The rate that an air monitoring device requires service depends on its
power supply (battery) capabilities and the amount of data that can be safely stored before data
are overwritten or lost. Once the CSAM is set up and attached to a power source, it is expected
to sample continuously until a volunteer operator returns to the site to download data. The
CSAM is designed to run for one week (continuously for 7 days) on a fully charged battery.
Therefore, an operator should visit the test site at least once a week to download data, inspect
the unit's functionality, and replace and/or recharge the battery.
The filter in the CSAM-NO2 (CairClip) needs to be changed every 4 months if it is regularly
exposed to dust (or more frequently if exposed to large quantities of dust). The filter should be
changed only by an experienced operator, as described in the CSAM Operating Procedure.
Documents and Records
Each activity associated with a monitoring project influences the value of the project's results.
Therefore, it is important to maintain thorough documentation in order to use the results to make
meaningful technical interpretations and judgments. This project requires experienced operators
to carry out certain project activities, such as conducting performance checks at the beginning
and end of the study, while other activities, such as field site visits and data downloads, will be
performed by citizen volunteer operators. All project participants are responsible for carefully
documenting their activities throughout the study.
Briefly described here are the types of records you should keep to ensure your project is well
documented. These suggestions and examples provide a starting point for record keeping, but
your project team should determine the documentation requirements for the project as an
integral part of the planning process. Developing a quality assurance project plan, or QAPP, is
recommended during the planning stages. A QAPP provides a "blueprint" for conducting and
documenting a study that produces quality results. EPA Region 2's Citizen Science web page
(http://www.epa.qov/reqion2/citizenscience) provides helpful information and a template for
developing a Citizen Science QAPP.
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At a minimum, you should consider the following documentation as crucial to producing
meaningful results:
•J* A Microsoft Excel spreadsheet created specifically for processing the CSAM data is
included in the Citizen Science Toolbox for this project. Data collected by both
experienced operators and citizen volunteers should be entered in this spreadsheet. The
CSAM Operating Procedure details how to use the spreadsheet to enter data for both
performance checks and routine field data collection.
*** Performance-check activities should be recorded in a bound notebook by the
experienced operator performing the check. All notebook entries should be made in
black, permanent ink and initialed and dated by the person making the entry. Changes
or corrections to data should be indicated with a single line through the original entry so
that the original entry remains legible. All changes should be explained, dated, and
initialed. In addition, all performance-check information, both pre- and post-test, should
be provided to the citizen scientists so they can enter that information in the sampling log
sheet, as shown in the example in Table 8.
•> Field data collection records for each CSAM unit and site should be kept in a bound
notebook as for the performance checks and entered on a prepared sampling log sheet
stored in a loose-leaf binder. The example log sheet shown in Figure 5 can be used or
modified as needed for your project. The experienced operator will provide the pre- and
post-test information for instrument performance and this information will be a part of the
macro that is provided with each CSAM unit.
*> All equipment maintenance and calibration forms should be kept in a project file by the
project leader until the end of the project or a date determined during project planning.
All hard-copy and electronic files of project data and documents should be maintained by the
project leader. Records stored or generated by computers should have hard-copy or write-
protected electronic backup copies. The project leader is responsible for making sure each
project participant has the most current versions of any pertinent documents they need to carry
out their assigned tasks, such as these quality assurance guidelines and the operating
procedure.
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Table 8
CSAM unit #:
Date:
CSAM Monitoring Record
Data recorded by:
Test location (description):
Fresh batteries installed?
Yes D No D
If yes, date:
Data logging interval:
Start date:
Start time:
mm
Operation mode: AC power D Battery D
End date:
End time:
Total run time:
hours
Pre-test Instrument Setup
PM2.5 zero check Performed by:
PM2.5 flow rate check Performed by:
NC>2 zero and span check Performed by:
Date:
Date:
Date:
Post-test Instrument Operations
Data downloaded Yes D No D File name:
Performed by:
Date:
Comments
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For Additional Help
CairPol, Technical Data Sheet CairClip NC>2, http://www.cairpol.com/images/pdf/NO2/technical
%20datasheet%20no2%2015072013.pdf, last accessed October 30, 2014.
Thermo Scientific Personal DataRAM pDFMOOOAN Monitor brochure,
http://www.thermoscientific.com/en/product/personal-dataram-pdr-1000an-monitor.html, last
accessed October 30, 2014.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Citizen Science Toolbox, CSAM Operating Procedure,
October 2014.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Air Sensor Toolbox for Citizen Scientists
http://www.epa.gov/heasd/airsensortoolbox, last accessed November 18, 2014.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, What Are the Six Common Air Pollutants?
http://www.epa.gov/airguality/urbanair/, last accessed September 19, 2014.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, EPA Region 2 Citizen Science,
http://www.epa.gov/region2/citizenscience, last accessed October 29, 2014.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Air Sensor Guidebook, EPA 600/R-14/159, June 2014,
Office of Research and Development, National Exposure Research Laboratory,
http://www.epa.gov/airscience/docs/air-sensor-guidebook.pdf, last accessed October 30, 2014.
The purpose of this document is to provide general operating guidelines, and
the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) does not assume any liability
regarding any aspect of its use. Reference herein to any specific commercial
products, process, or service by trade name, trademark, manufacturer, or
otherwise does not necessarily constitute or imply its endorsement,
recommendation, or favoring by EPA. The views and opinions of authors
expressed herein do not necessarily state or reflect those of EPA and shall not
be used for advertising or product endorsement purposes. EPA assumes no
liability associated with any errors in the suggested procedures, errors
potentially made by the instrument in question, user misuse of the instruments
or data collected, or costs due to any damage the instrument might experience
under any circumstance or use. This user guide is specific to the make/model
and version number of the instrument identified in the document and is not
generalizable to any other sensor. The users should understand that they
should develop operating guidelines specific to their own research needs, and
any general document of this nature would be limited in meeting their full need.
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Unisod States
Environmental Protection
OITo= ar REsearsn and Development ;3101R;
Washington, DC 2D46D
Official BusnesE
3Enattj TDT Prtvale Use
yaaa
PRESORTED STANDARD
POSTAGE* FEES PAID
EPA
PERMIT NO. G-35
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