Developing Low-Cost Sensors for Urban Air Quality Monitoring in Tunisia: A Methodological Approach

Air quality in urban areas of Tunisia is a significant concern due to rapid industrialization and population growth. Urban air pollution can lead to health issues such as respiratory diseases and premature mortality. The study employs a combination of literature review and experimental design to identify suitable materials for sensor fabrication. A statistical model is used to predict the sensitivity of these sensors based on material properties and ambient conditions. Sensors fabricated from inexpensive, locally sourced materials showed an effective response to PM2.5 levels with a detection limit of 10 micrograms per cubic meter (μg/m³) in simulated urban air environments. The developed sensors demonstrate promise for cost-effective monitoring of urban air quality, particularly for particulate matter concentrations relevant to public health standards. Further testing should be conducted under real-world conditions to validate sensor performance and reliability. Collaboration with local authorities is recommended to facilitate deployment in urban areas. Low-cost sensors, Urban air quality monitoring, PM2.5, Tunisia, Environmental physics The empirical specification follows $Y=\beta_0+\beta^\top X+\varepsilon$, and inference is reported with uncertainty-aware statistical criteria.