Modern Measuring Tools to Develop Efficient Atmospheric Air Monitoring Systems Based on UAVs

The article shows that ground-based atmospheric air monitoring systems do not allow prompt response to fast-moving emergency situations with chemical and radiation damage factors due to their shortcomings. The solution to these problems is possible using remote measurement methods based on UAVs. This approach application allows one to get quickly and easily to the scene of an emergency in difficult conditions. It also allows receiving and transferring the necessary information to the control point and ensures effective decision-making regarding the response and elimination of consequences. Modern measuring tools for the construction of efficient UAV-based atmospheric air monitoring systems are analyzed. They include the following: inexpensive single gas sensors, multisensor systems, electronic noses, high-precision optical analyzers, radiation detectors, and optical particle counters to detect the concentration of solid particles. The advantages and disadvantages of this equipment are shown. The principles of its operation are briefly described. A comparison of various types of inexpensive single-gas sensors is made. It is shown that the phenomenon of “downwash” occurs during using drones with rotorcraft. Such a phenomenon causes a violation of air distribution around the drone and affects the performance of on-board sensors.