What CEN/TS 17660 is?

CEN/TS 17660 is a European Technical Specification standard defining methodologies for performance evaluation of air quality sensor systems, focusing on low-cost sensors for gaseous pollutants (Part 1) and particulate matter (Part 2) in ambient air, providing a framework for classification and data validation, especially for regulatory (indicative) and non-regulatory uses, aligning with directives like 2008/50/EC. Currently at the Technical Specification stage; it may take several years before it becomes a full European Standard (EN) and is adopted as a national standard in all CEN member countries.

Structure: Divided into parts:

• CEN/TS 17660-1:2021 – Air quality: Performance evaluation of air quality sensor systems – Part 1: Gaseous pollutants in ambient air
• CEN/TS 17660-2:2024 – Air quality: Performance evaluation of air quality sensor systems – Part 2: Particulate matter in ambient air

Key Aspects:

• Purpose: Establishes testing procedures and performance criteria for classifying air quality sensors, ensuring data reliability for monitoring air pollution.
• Scope: Covers gaseous pollutants (O3, NO/NO2/NOx, CO, SO2, benzene) and particulate matter (PM10, PM2.5).
• Application: Intended for low-cost sensor systems used at fixed sites, providing benchmarks for regulatory monitoring (indicative measurements) and other applications.
• Significance: Offers a standardized approach to evaluating sensor performance, promoting consistency and data quality in air quality monitoring across Europe.

In essence, CEN/TS 17660 provides the "how-to" for ensuring that the data from new, often cheaper, air quality sensors can be trusted and used effectively for public health and environmental protection.