Method for reliable, individualized measurement and warning of air pollution, and associated device

Abstract

The method consists in, first, circulating the air in which the content of a specific pollutant is to be measured through or over materials that reversibly absorb compounds in the air that interfere with the measurement of pollution. These absorbent materials are employed in the form of self-fixing patches or membranes that can be disposed of after use and are placed between the air to be measured and the measurement means. These patches or membranes can be used for all types of measurement means, such as electronic sensors or colorimetric indicators (in which case the membrane will advantageously be transparent). This actual pre-treatment of the air will thus allow reliable, reproducible measurement irrespective of the environmental conditions (humidity, presence of other pollutants, etc.). For humidity, for example, the membrane will consist of silica gel or cotton wool. A first application is an individualized warning device that can be carried on the reverse of a jacket or on the wrist, for alerting asthmatics to the presence of a peak in ozone pollution or sulphur and nitrogen oxide pollution.

Description

technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to a method and related apparatus for measuring and warning of peaks in air pollution to warn people, especially asthmatics, of the potential danger of exposure to polluted air.

[0002] As will be apparent from the description of the method, the method is suitable for detecting in its immediate environment pollutants present in the air we breathe that may exceed levels characterized as hazardous by health services and provide Personalized alerts. Background technique

[0003] It is well known that, in the presence of air pollutants, when a certain level of air pollution has been exceeded, as is the case with asthmatics, people afflicted with respiratory diseases must limit their outdoor activities and in many cases avoid engaging in More strenuous physical activity.

[0004] Until now, when an asthmatic wanted to know the risk of going out in terms of levels of air pollutants such as ozone, nitrogen oxides or sulfur oxi...

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