SUBHASH MISHRA
Dhanbad, Feb 20: Industry professionals and research scholars from across the country gathered at IIT ISM Dhanbad on Thursday to discuss ‘low-cost sensors and automation for air quality monitoring in the mining industry’.
The two-day program (February 20-21) is being organized by the Department of Environmental Science & Engineering (ES&E) in collaboration with the Department of Mechanical Engineering.
Focus on air pollution and sensor performance
Experts engaged in discussions on the fundamental aspects of air pollution, including its sources, composition, and harmful effects on climate change and human health. Other key topics included the performance assessment of low-cost sensors (LCS), calibration techniques, economic benefits, and real-world applications in the mining industry.
Prof. Saifi Izhar, Assistant Professor (ES&E) and program coordinator, highlighted the global challenge of poor air quality, pointing to industrial fossil fuel usage and mining as major contributors. He noted that conventional air quality monitoring depends on expensive equipment, limiting its accessibility and widespread deployment.
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Challenges in industrial automation
Prof. Izhar also addressed the obstacles in industrial automation, citing a lack of interdisciplinary knowledge and high infrastructural costs as barriers to widespread adoption.
He emphasized that with the increasing availability of automated systems, there is a growing demand for skilled professionals in the field. Academic institutions, he added, play a crucial role in bridging this gap by fostering interdisciplinary expertise and technological integration.
Real-time monitoring and health impacts
Prof. Alok Sinha, HoD of Environmental Science & Engineering, stressed the importance of real-time pollution monitoring. He stated that early detection through low-cost sensors enables timely mitigation measures, such as water sprinkling, to effectively reduce pollution levels.
Prof. Somnath Chattopadhyaya, HoD of Mechanical Engineering, reiterated the severe impact of air pollution on human health. He emphasized that the hands-on training provided during the program would significantly enhance participants’ understanding and practical application of air quality monitoring techniques.
Prof. Zafar Alam, Assistant Professor (Mechanical Engineering), proposed the vote of thanks and underscored the importance of translating theoretical knowledge into practical implementation. He encouraged participants to apply their learnings in real-world scenarios to improve air quality monitoring and mitigation strategies.