Chinese researchers develop mobile device to trace key source of air pollution

  • VOCs are important precursors of ozone (O3) and PM2.5 matter – the most harmful small particles and a key indicator of air pollution
  • This year has proved challenging for environmental protection after China’s economy was hit hard by the Covid-19 pandemic

A man standing at a viewing area of Jingshan Park takes photos of the Forbidden City as a thick haze engulfs Beijing, China, 09 December 2019. Photo: EPA-EFE

Chinese researchers have developed a mobile device that can trace volatile organic compounds (VOCs), a key source of air pollution, as the country with the world's largest carbon emissions continues its battle to bring back blue skies.

The equipment, comprising a vibration-resistant sensor, a positioning signal receiver and geographic information system, can be attached to vehicles to trace the distribution of VOCs in cities.

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