ASTM International's air quality committee (D22) has approved a new standard that will help measure the performance of ambient outdoor air quality sensors. The new standard (D8559) and a previously approved standard (D8406) are the first to institute standardized performance tests and criteria for ambient outdoor air quality sensors.

Geoff Henshaw, an ASTM member who recently presented information on these standards at the Air Sensors International Conference, explained how innovative both standards are in terms of product performance and air quality sensor success.

?This is the first set of performance standards for air quality sensors that covers gases and particulate matter to be published globally, notes Henshaw. ?It will help air quality professionals to select an air sensor best suited for their monitoring needs and therefore improve the success of a monitoring project.?

These new standards coincide with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 3 (Good Health and Wellbeing), 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), 11 (Sustainable Communities and Cities), 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and 13 (Climate Action).

D8559 and D8406 will guide air quality consultants, industry, agencies, community groups, and manufacturers in their application of air quality sensors to maximize performance, drive innovation, and improve data quality.

Air sensor manufacturers and other interested parties are invited to join in further development of these and other related air quality standards.