Air Quality Monitoring and Alert System Using MQ135 Gas

Sensor with Arduino Controller

ABSTRACT:

Air quality monitoring has emerged as a crucial aspect of environmental research due to its significant
implications for public health and ecological balance. This paper explores the application of MQ135 gas
sensor technology in monitoring air quality. We delve into the operational principles, calibration
methods, and limitations of the MQ135 sensor. Furthermore, we review existing research on the
deployment of MQ135 sensors in various environmental settings and analyze their effectiveness in
detecting key air pollutants. Additionally, we discuss potential advancements and future directions for
improving air quality monitoring systems utilizing MQ135 sensors.

INTRODUCTION:
Air pollution is a significant environmental concern with far-reaching implications for public health,
ecological balance, and sustainable development. The rapid industrialization, urbanization, and
increasing vehicular emissions have led to a steady rise in atmospheric pollutants, posing serious risks to
human well-being and the natural environment. In densely populated urban areas, the concentration of
harmful gases such as carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and volatile
organic compounds (VOCs) often exceeds safe levels, contributing to respiratory diseases, cardiovascular
disorders, and adverse environmental effects.
Continuous monitoring of air quality is essential for assessing pollution levels, identifying sources of
contamination, and implementing effective mitigation strategies. Traditional air quality monitoring
networks primarily rely on stationary monitoring stations equipped with sophisticated instrumentation,
which can be expensive to install and maintain. Moreover, these systems may not provide real-time data
at a granular level required for localized interventions.
In recent years, there has been a growing interest in developing low-cost, portable air quality monitoring
solutions that leverage advances in sensor technology and microcontroller platforms. The MQ135 gas
sensor, a semiconductor-based device capable of detecting a range of air pollutants, offers a cost-
effective solution for real-time monitoring applications. When combined with the Arduino
microcontroller, a versatile open-source hardware platform, the MQ135 sensor becomes a powerful tool
for environmental sensing and data acquisition.
This research endeavors to explore the feasibility of implementing an air quality monitoring and alert
system using the MQ135 gas sensor with an Arduino controller. By interfacing the sensor with Arduino,
real-time data acquisition, analysis, and visualization can be achieved cost-effectively. Additionally,
integrating an alert system enables timely notifications to stakeholders when pollutant levels exceed
predefined thresholds, facilitating proactive measures to mitigate air pollution.
Through this study, we aim to contribute to the advancement of accessible and scalable air quality
monitoring solutions that empower communities, policymakers, and researchers to make informed
decisions toward improving air quality and safeguarding public health.
MQ135 AIR QUALITY SENSOR:
The MQ135 gas sensor is a popular and versatile semiconductor-based sensor widely used for
detecting various gases in the atmosphere. Developed by the company Winsen, the MQ135
sensor operates on the principle of chemiresistance, where the electrical conductivity of its
sensing material changes when it comes into contact with specific gases.
Here are some key features and uses of the MQ135 gas sensor:
1.Gas Detection: The MQ135 sensor is capable of detecting a range of gases, including:
Carbon dioxide (CO2)
Carbon monoxide (CO)
Nitrogen dioxide (NO2)
Ammonia (NH3)
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
2.High Sensitivity: The sensor exhibits high sensitivity to the target gases, allowing for the
detection of even low concentrations in the atmosphere.
3.Cost-Effective: One of the major advantages of the MQ135 sensor is its affordability, making it
accessible for a wide range of applications, including hobbyist projects, academic research, and
commercial products.
4.Wide Operating Range: The MQ135 sensor operates effectively over a wide range of
environmental conditions, making it suitable for indoor and outdoor air quality monitoring.
5.Interfacing: The sensor can be easily interfaced with microcontroller platforms such as
Arduino, Raspberry Pi, and ESP32, enabling real-time data acquisition and analysis.
6.Portable: Its small size and low power consumption make it suitable for portable and
wearable devices, allowing for on-the-go air quality monitoring.
7.Applications:
Indoor Air Quality Monitoring: The MQ135 sensor is commonly used in indoor environments
to monitor air quality in homes, offices, schools, and industrial facilities, where exposure to
indoor pollutants can impact human health and comfort.
Outdoor Air Quality Monitoring: In urban areas, the sensor can be deployed in outdoor
monitoring stations to assess ambient air quality and identify pollution hotspots.
Environmental Research: Researchers utilize the MQ135 sensor for environmental studies,
pollution mapping, and epidemiological investigations to understand the impact of air pollution
on ecosystems and human populations.
Smart Home Systems: Integrated into smart home systems, the sensor can trigger ventilation
systems, air purifiers, or alerts to maintain optimal indoor air quality levels.
Wearable Devices: Incorporating the MQ135 sensor into wearable devices enables individuals
to monitor their personal exposure to air pollutants in real-time, empowering them to make
informed decisions about their health and activities.
Overall, the MQ135 gas sensor offers a cost-effective and versatile solution for air quality
monitoring applications, facilitating efforts to mitigate the adverse effects of air pollution on
human health and the environment.
SYSTEM DESIGN:Air pollution is a significant environmental concern with far-reaching
implications for public health, ecological balance, and sustainable development. The rapid
industrialization, urbanization, and increasing vehicular emissions have led to a steady rise in
atmospheric pollutants, posing serious risks to human well-being and the natural environment.
In densely populated urban areas, the concentration of harmful gases such as carbon monoxide
(CO), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) often
exceeds safe levels, contributing to respiratory diseases, cardiovascular disorders, and adverse
environmental effects.
Continuous monitoring of air quality is essential for assessing pollution levels, identifying
sources of contamination, and implementing effective mitigation strategies. Traditional air
quality monitoring networks primarily rely on stationary monitoring stations equipped with
sophisticated instrumentation, which can be expensive to install and maintain. Moreover, these
systems may not provide real-time data at a granular level required for localized interventions.
In recent years, there has been a growing interest in developing low-cost, portable air quality
monitoring solutions that leverage advances in sensor technology and microcontroller
platforms. The MQ135 gas sensor, a semiconductor-based device capable of detecting a range
of air pollutants, offers a cost-effective solution for real-time monitoring applications. When
combined with the Arduino microcontroller, a versatile open-source hardware platform, the
MQ135 sensor becomes a powerful tool for environmental sensing and data acquisition.
This research endeavors to explore the feasibility of implementing an air quality monitoring and
alert system using the MQ135 gas sensor with an Arduino controller. By interfacing the sensor
with Arduino, real-time data acquisition, analysis, and visualization can be achieved cost-
effectively. Additionally, integrating an alert system enables timely notifications to stakeholders
when pollutant levels exceed predefined thresholds, facilitating proactive measures to mitigate
air pollution.
Through this study, we aim to contribute to the advancement of accessible and scalable air
quality monitoring solutions that empower communities, policymakers, and researchers to make
informed decisions toward improving air quality and safeguarding public health.

The system design involves integrating the MQ135 gas sensor with an Arduino microcontroller
to create an air quality monitoring and alert system. The MQ135 sensor detects various gases in
the atmosphere, and its analog output is connected to the analog input pin of the Arduino. The
Arduino reads the sensor data and processes it to determine pollutant levels. A predefined
threshold is set for each gas, and when the measured concentration exceeds these thresholds,
the Arduino triggers an alert mechanism. This alert mechanism can be implemented using visual
indicators like LEDs, sound alarms, or notifications sent to a user's smartphone or computer via
Wi-Fi or GSM modules. Additionally, the system can include a data logging feature to record
pollutant levels over time for analysis and visualization. This modular design allows for scalability
and customization to meet specific application requirements.

Air pollution is a significant environmental concern with far-reaching implications for public
health, ecological balance, and sustainable development. The rapid industrialization,
urbanization, and increasing vehicular emissions have led to a steady rise in atmospheric
pollutants, posing serious risks to human well-being and the natural environment. In densely
populated urban areas, the concentration of harmful gases such as carbon monoxide (CO),
nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) often
exceeds safe levels, contributing to respiratory diseases, cardiovascular disorders, and adverse
environmental effects.
Continuous monitoring of air quality is essential for assessing pollution levels, identifying
sources of contamination, and implementing effective mitigation strategies. Traditional air
quality monitoring networks primarily rely on stationary monitoring stations equipped with
sophisticated instrumentation, which can be expensive to install and maintain. Moreover, these
systems may not provide real-time data at a granular level required for localized interventions.
In recent years, there has been a growing interest in developing low-cost, portable air quality
monitoring solutions that leverage advances in sensor technology and microcontroller
platforms. The MQ135 gas sensor, a semiconductor-based device capable of detecting a range
of air pollutants, offers a cost-effective solution for real-time monitoring applications. When
combined with the Arduino microcontroller, a versatile open-source hardware platform, the
MQ135 sensor becomes a powerful tool for environmental sensing and data acquisition.
This research endeavors to explore the feasibility of implementing an air quality monitoring and
alert system using the MQ135 gas sensor with an Arduino controller. By interfacing the sensor
with Arduino, real-time data acquisition, analysis, and visualization can be achieved cost-
effectively. Additionally, integrating an alert system enables timely notifications to stakeholders
when pollutant levels exceed predefined thresholds, facilitating proactive measures to mitigate
air pollution.
Through this study, we aim to contribute to the advancement of accessible and scalable air
quality monitoring solutions that empower communities, policymakers, and researchers to make
informed decisions toward improving air quality and safeguarding public health.

AIR QUALITY INDEX:The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a numerical scale used to communicate the
quality of ambient air and the associated health risks to the public. It provides a standardized
way to measure and report air pollution levels based on concentrations of specific pollutants in
the atmosphere. The AQI is widely used by governments, environmental agencies, and health
organizations worldwide to inform the public about air quality conditions and to guide policy
decisions and public health interventions.
Here's an elaboration on the components and interpretation of the Air Quality Index:
1.Pollutants Monitored: The AQI typically measures the concentrations of several key pollutants
known to have adverse effects on human health and the environment. These pollutants
commonly include:
Particulate Matter (PM10 and PM2.5): Inhalable particles suspended in the air, categorized by
their size (particles with a diameter of 10 micrometers or less are labeled as PM10, while those
with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or less are labeled as PM2.5).
Ground-level Ozone (O3): A harmful gas formed by the reaction of sunlight with pollutants
emitted from vehicles, industrial processes, and other sources.
Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2): A gas produced by combustion processes, including vehicle emissions
and industrial activities.
Sulfur Dioxide (SO2): A gas released from the burning of fossil fuels, primarily in industrial
processes and power generation.
2.AQI Categories: The AQI is divided into categories representing different levels of health
concern. These categories typically range from "Good" to "Hazardous," with corresponding
color codes and descriptions to indicate the severity of air pollution. Each category is associated
with a specific range of AQI values and corresponding health implications.
3.Interpretation and Health Effects: The AQI provides guidance on the potential health effects
associated with different pollution levels. For example:
"Good" (0-50): Air quality is considered satisfactory, and air pollution poses little to no risk to
public health.
"Moderate" (51-100): Air quality is acceptable; however, there may be a moderate health
concern for sensitive individuals, such as those with respiratory conditions.
"Unhealthy" (101-150): Air quality is deemed unhealthy for sensitive groups, and prolonged
exposure may have adverse health effects on vulnerable populations.
"Very Unhealthy" (151-200): Air quality is unhealthy, and everyone may experience adverse
health effects with prolonged exposure.
"Hazardous" (201-300+): Air quality is considered hazardous, and immediate health effects are
expected for all individuals. Emergency measures may be necessary to protect public health.
4.Communication and Public Awareness: The AQI is communicated to the public through
various channels, including air quality monitoring websites, mobile apps, news outlets, and
public health advisories. By providing easily understandable information about air pollution
levels and associated health risks, the AQI helps individuals make informed decisions to protect
their health, such as limiting outdoor activities during periods of poor air quality, using air
purifiers, and wearing respiratory protection when necessary.
In summary, the Air Quality Index serves as a valuable tool for assessing and communicating air
pollution levels, raising public awareness about environmental health risks, and guiding efforts
to improve air quality and protect public health.

HARDWARE IMPLEMENTATIONS:
Air quality monitoring using the MQ135 gas sensor involves a comprehensive process of
detecting and measuring various gases in the atmosphere to assess air pollution levels. Here's a
detailed explanation of how it works:
1.Gas Sensing Principle: The MQ135 gas sensor operates based on the principle of
chemiresistance. It comprises a semiconductor-based sensing element that exhibits changes in
electrical conductivity when exposed to specific gases. The sensing material within the MQ135
sensor reacts to the presence of gases by altering its resistance. Different gases cause varying
degrees of change in resistance, allowing the sensor to detect and differentiate between
different types of pollutants.
2.Sensor Calibration: Prior to deployment, the MQ135 sensor requires calibration to ensure
accurate measurements. Calibration involves exposing the sensor to known concentrations of
target gases and adjusting its sensitivity accordingly. This process ensures that the sensor
provides reliable readings across a range of pollutant concentrations. Calibration can be
performed using calibration gases of known concentrations or by comparing sensor readings
with reference instruments.
3.Hardware Setup: The MQ135 gas sensor is interfaced with an Arduino microcontroller, which
serves as the central processing unit for data acquisition and analysis. The sensor is connected
to the Arduino board via its analog output pin, which is linked to one of the analog input pins on
the Arduino. This connection allows the Arduino to read the analog voltage output from the
sensor, which varies based on the concentration of gases detected in the environment.
4.Data Acquisition: Once the hardware setup is complete, the Arduino continuously reads the
analog voltage output from the MQ135 sensor. The voltage output is proportional to the
concentration of gases present in the air. By converting the analog voltage readings to digital
values, the Arduino obtains numerical data representing pollutant levels. Sampling frequency
can be adjusted based on the specific application requirements and desired level of temporal
resolution.
5.Data Analysis and Threshold Comparison: The Arduino processes the sensor data to
determine the levels of specific pollutants, such as carbon dioxide (CO2), carbon monoxide
(CO), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Predefined threshold
values for each pollutant are established based on air quality standards, health guidelines, or
user-defined criteria. The Arduino compares the measured pollutant levels against these
thresholds to assess air quality conditions.
6.Alert Mechanism: When pollutant concentrations exceed the predefined thresholds, the
Arduino triggers an alert mechanism to notify stakeholders. This alert mechanism can take
various forms, such as visual indicators (e.g., LEDs), audible alarms (e.g., buzzers), or digital
notifications (e.g., emails, SMS messages), depending on the application requirements. The
alert system serves to inform individuals or organizations of deteriorating air quality conditions,
prompting them to take appropriate actions to mitigate health risks or environmental impacts.
7.Data Logging and Visualization: In addition to real-time monitoring and alerts, air quality
monitoring systems using the MQ135 sensor and Arduino may include provisions for data
logging and visualization. Data logging allows for the recording of sensor readings over time,
enabling the tracking of air quality trends and the analysis of historical data. Visualization tools
such as graphs or charts can be employed to present air quality data in a user-friendly format,
facilitating interpretation and decision-making.
By integrating the MQ135 gas sensor with an Arduino microcontroller, air quality monitoring
systems can provide valuable insights into pollutant levels in the atmosphere. These systems
enable proactive measures to mitigate air pollution, protect public health, and promote
environmental sustainability.
RESULTS AND IMPLEMENTATIONS:
Implementing air quality monitoring using the MQ135 gas sensor yields valuable results and
offers various implementations to address environmental challenges and protect public health.
Here's an overview of the results and implementations:
1.Real-Time Air Quality Data: One of the key results of implementing air quality monitoring with
the MQ135 sensor is the generation of real-time air quality data. The sensor continuously
measures pollutant levels in the atmosphere, providing immediate feedback on air quality
conditions. This real-time data is invaluable for identifying pollution hotspots, tracking changes
in air quality over time, and assessing the effectiveness of pollution control measures.
2.Identification of Pollutant Sources: By monitoring pollutant levels with the MQ135 sensor, it
becomes possible to identify sources of air pollution. High concentrations of specific pollutants
can indicate the presence of nearby emission sources, such as traffic congestion, industrial
facilities, or agricultural activities. Identifying pollutant sources allows for targeted interventions
to reduce emissions and improve air quality in affected areas.
3.Health Risk Assessment: Air quality monitoring using the MQ135 sensor enables the
assessment of health risks associated with exposure to air pollutants. By comparing measured
pollutant levels against health-based standards and guidelines, it is possible to evaluate the
potential health impacts of poor air quality on local populations. This information helps
policymakers and public health officials develop strategies to protect vulnerable individuals and
mitigate health risks.
4.Public Awareness and Education: Implementing air quality monitoring with the MQ135 sensor
raises public awareness about environmental issues and encourages community engagement in
air quality management efforts. By making air quality data accessible to the public through
online platforms, mobile applications, or community outreach initiatives, individuals can take
proactive steps to reduce their exposure to air pollution and advocate for cleaner air.
5.Policy Development and Regulation: The data collected from air quality monitoring using the
MQ135 sensor can inform the development of environmental policies and regulations aimed at
reducing air pollution. Policymakers can use this data to set emission limits, establish air quality
standards, and implement measures to control pollutant emissions from various sources.
Additionally, air quality monitoring results can support enforcement efforts to ensure
compliance with environmental regulations.
6.Environmental Research: Air quality monitoring using the MQ135 sensor contributes to
environmental research by providing valuable data for scientific studies and analyses.
Researchers can use the collected data to investigate trends in air pollution, assess the
effectiveness of pollution control measures, and study the impacts of air quality on ecosystems
and human health. This research helps expand our understanding of air pollution dynamics and
informs future decision-making in environmental management.
7.Integration with IoT and Smart City Initiatives: Implementing air quality monitoring with the
MQ135 sensor aligns with IoT (Internet of Things) and smart city initiatives aimed at leveraging
technology to improve urban living conditions. By integrating air quality sensors into smart city
infrastructure, such as streetlights, public transportation systems, or urban planning
frameworks, cities can enhance their capacity to monitor and manage air quality in real-time,
leading to healthier and more sustainable urban environments.
In conclusion, implementing air quality monitoring using the MQ135 gas sensor generates
valuable results and offers numerous implementations to address environmental challenges,
protect public health, and promote sustainable development. By leveraging the capabilities of
sensor technology and data-driven decision-making, stakeholders can work together to achieve
cleaner air and a healthier environment for present and future generations

CONCLUSION AND FUTURE:

In conclusion, air quality monitoring using the MQ135 gas sensor presents a promising
approach to addressing environmental challenges and safeguarding public health. Through the
implementation of this technology, valuable insights into pollutant levels in the atmosphere are
obtained, enabling proactive measures to mitigate air pollution and its associated impacts. As
we look towards the future, there are several key considerations and opportunities for further
advancements in air quality monitoring using the MQ135 sensor:
1.Conclusion:
The implementation of air quality monitoring with the MQ135 gas sensor has demonstrated
its effectiveness in providing real-time data on pollutant levels in the atmosphere.
This data has been instrumental in identifying pollution sources, assessing health risks, raising
public awareness, informing policy development, and supporting environmental research.
By leveraging the capabilities of sensor technology and data-driven decision-making,
stakeholders have been able to take proactive steps towards improving air quality and
promoting sustainable development.
2.Challenges and Opportunities:
Despite its effectiveness, air quality monitoring using the MQ135 sensor faces challenges such
as sensor accuracy, calibration requirements, and the need for standardized measurement
protocols.
There is a need for continued research and development to improve sensor performance,
address cross-sensitivity issues, and enhance calibration techniques to ensure reliable and
accurate measurements.
Furthermore, advancements in data analytics, machine learning, and sensor integration with
IoT platforms present opportunities to enhance the capabilities of air quality monitoring
systems and enable more comprehensive and adaptive approaches to environmental
management.
3.Future Directions:
Integration with IoT and smart city initiatives: Air quality monitoring systems using the MQ135
sensor can be integrated with IoT platforms and smart city infrastructure to enable real-time
monitoring and management of air quality in urban environments. This integration can facilitate
data-driven decision-making, enhance public engagement, and support the development of
smart and sustainable cities.
Sensor network deployment: Establishing networks of MQ135 sensors across different
geographical locations can provide a more comprehensive understanding of air quality
variations and pollution trends. These sensor networks can be used to create pollution maps,
identify pollution hotspots, and prioritize interventions in areas with the greatest need.
Mobile and wearable applications: The miniaturization of sensor technology allows for the
development of mobile and wearable air quality monitoring devices that individuals can use to
track their personal exposure to air pollutants. These applications empower individuals to make
informed decisions about their daily activities and take steps to minimize their exposure to
harmful pollutants.
Citizen science initiatives: Engaging citizens in air quality monitoring through citizen science
initiatives can expand the coverage of monitoring networks, promote public awareness, and
encourage community involvement in environmental stewardship. By harnessing the collective
efforts of citizens, valuable data can be collected and used to complement official monitoring
efforts and inform local decision-making.
Air pollution is a significant environmental concern with far-reaching implications for public
health, ecological balance, and sustainable development. The rapid industrialization,
urbanization, and increasing vehicular emissions have led to a steady rise in atmospheric
pollutants, posing serious risks to human well-being and the natural environment. In densely
populated urban areas, the concentration of harmful gases such as carbon monoxide (CO),
nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) often
exceeds safe levels, contributing to respiratory diseases, cardiovascular disorders, and adverse
environmental effects.
Continuous monitoring of air quality is essential for assessing pollution levels, identifying
sources of contamination, and implementing effective mitigation strategies. Traditional air
quality monitoring networks primarily rely on stationary monitoring stations equipped with
sophisticated instrumentation, which can be expensive to install and maintain. Moreover, these
systems may not provide real-time data at a granular level required for localized interventions.
In recent years, there has been a growing interest in developing low-cost, portable air quality
monitoring solutions that leverage advances in sensor technology and microcontroller
platforms. The MQ135 gas sensor, a semiconductor-based device capable of detecting a range
of air pollutants, offers a cost-effective solution for real-time monitoring applications. When
combined with the Arduino microcontroller, a versatile open-source hardware platform, the
MQ135 sensor becomes a powerful tool for environmental sensing and data acquisition.
This research endeavors to explore the feasibility of implementing an air quality monitoring and
alert system using the MQ135 gas sensor with an Arduino controller. By interfacing the sensor
with Arduino, real-time data acquisition, analysis, and visualization can be achieved cost-
effectively. Additionally, integrating an alert system enables timely notifications to stakeholders
when pollutant levels exceed predefined thresholds, facilitating proactive measures to mitigate
air pollution.
Through this study, we aim to contribute to the advancement of accessible and scalable air
quality monitoring solutions that empower communities, policymakers, and researchers to
make informed decisions toward improving air quality and safeguarding public health.