The AirSensor open-source R-package and DataViewer web application for interpreting community data collected by low-cost sensor networks. (December 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Feenstra, Brandon; Collier-Oxandale, Ashley; Papapostolou, Vasileios; Cocker, David; Polidori, Andrea
• Is Part Of: Environmental modelling & software. Volume 134(2020)
• Publication Date: 2020-12
• Subjects: Community air monitoring -- Citizen scientist -- Low-cost air quality sensor -- Open-source R package -- Particulate matter PM2.5 -- Data interpretation; Environmental monitoring -- Computer programs -- Periodicals; Ecology -- Computer simulation -- Periodicals; Digital computer simulation -- Periodicals; Computer software -- Periodicals; Environmental Monitoring -- Periodicals; Computer Simulation -- Periodicals; Environnement -- Surveillance -- Logiciels -- Périodiques; Écologie -- Simulation, Méthodes de -- Périodiques; Simulation par ordinateur -- Périodiques; Logiciels -- Périodiques; Computer software; Digital computer simulation; Ecology -- Computer simulation; Environmental monitoring -- Computer programs; Periodicals; Electronic journals; 363.70015118
• DOI: 10.1016/j.envsoft.2020.104832
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1364-8152

Abstract

Abstract: While large-scale low-cost sensor networks are now recording air pollutant concentrations at finer spatial and temporal scales than previously measured, the large environmental data sets generated by these sensor networks can become overwhelming when considering the scientific skills required to analyze the data and generate interpretable results. This paper summarizes the development of an open-source R package ( AirSensor) and interactive web application ( DataViewer ) designed to address the environmental data science challenges of visualizing and understanding local air quality conditions with community networks of low-cost air quality sensors. AirSensor allows users to access historical data, add spatial metadata, and create maps and plots for viewing community monitoring data. The DataViewer application was developed to incorporate the functionality and plotting functions of the R package into a user-friendly web experience that would serve as the primary source for data communication for community-based organizations and citizen scientists. Graphical abstract: Image 1 Highlights: Open-source R package to meet data science needs of community air sensor networks. Data fusion enhancements to assess quality of sensor data and create custom plots. Data dashboard web application provides ability to generate understandable plots. Intuitive user selectable interface for engaging community scientist. Advanced plotting capabilities to understand local air quality patterns.