Technology Behind the Data – Filter Media Testing

How are masks and filter media tested? Masks and Filter Media are tested using an Aerosol Generator combined with Particle Measurement. Aerosol generators The aerosol is created by two aerosol generators. The aerosol generators are triggered by a solenoid valve and switched accordingly. The hose connection of the respective generator to the filter holder must… Show more

Air Quality Monitoring Comes to High River

HIGH RIVER – The Calgary Region Airshed Zone (CRAZ) and Town of High River announce a partnership in concert with Alberta Environment and Protected Areas to bring air quality monitoring to High River. For one year, funding is provided to deploy a portable monitoring station (PAML) in High River. The trailer has arrived and is located adjacent to… Show more

What is in the air?

There’s something in the air, but what, exactly? CBC Eyeopener speaks with a local air quality scientist (that’s Mandeep Dhaliwal, CRAZ Air Quality Program Manager) about what we’re breathing in when wildfire haze blankets the city. https://www.cbc.ca/listen/live-radio/1-5/clip/15936193 Show more

2021 Alberta Airsheds Air Quality Report

Alberta Airsheds Council has prepared this 2021 Alberta Airsheds Air Quality Report to provide a summary of the air quality data that is monitored and collected in our province by Alberta’s Airsheds. This information is important to share with Albertans because air quality affects our health and our environment. Air Quality Reports — Alberta Airsheds… Show more

Community Guide to Wildfire Smoke and Health

The Calgary Region Airshed Zone is proud to present a guide explaining health effects and exposure reduction resources to wildfire smoke. Community Guide to Wildfire Smoke and Health Overview Over the past few years, residents of the Province of Alberta have experienced increased smoke exposure as a result of severe wildfires. This guide has been… Show more

Technology behind the Data – PM2.5 Particulate

By Jim Shorey PM2.5 is Particulate Matter smaller than 2.5 microns in size. Particulate Matter such as wood smoke is often measured using the principle of Beta Radiation Attenuation and Nephelometer Light Scattering Detection. Looking at the flow diagram below, particulate is drawn into the Inlet via a vacuum pump.  The Inlet has a PM10… Show more

Technology Behind the Data – Ozone

Ozone Jim Shorey Ozone gas is commonly measured by instruments with UV Photometric Technology Looking at the Flow Schematic shown below in Figure 1-2, we see the layout of an Ozone Analyzer. This unit includes an internal Air Sample Pump, which draws Ambient Air into the port labeled SAMPLE. Once the sample enters the sample… Show more

Technology Behind The Data – NO – NO2 – N0x

NO-NO2-NOx Jim Shorey NO-NO2-NOx gases are commonly measured by instruments using Chemiluminescence. Looking at the Flow Schematic shown below in Figure 1-2, we see the layout of a NOx Analyzer. This unit includes an internal Air Sample Pump, which draws Ambient Air into the port labeled as SAMPLE.  The next component shown as REACTION CHAMBER… Show more

Technology Behind the Data – Hydrogen Sulfide, H2S

Hydrogen Sulfide, H2S Jim Shorey H2S gas is commonly measured by instruments using both UV fluorescence and a Heated Converter. Hydrogen Sulfide, H2S gas emissions are often a result from oil & gas production facilities. Looking at the Flow Schematic shown below in Figure 1-2, we see the layout of an H2S Analyzer. This unit… Show more

Technology Behind The Data – Sulphur Dioxide, SO2

Sulphur Dioxide, SO2 Jim Shorey SO2 gas is commonly measured by instruments using Ultra Violet UV fluorescence. Looking at the Flow Schematic shown below in Figure 1-2, we see the layout of an SO2 Analyzer. This unit includes an internal Air Sample Pump, which draws Ambient Air into the port labeled as SAMPLE. The next… Show more