Durability Testing and Comparative Evaluation of a Prototype Device for Ambient Air Quality Sampling

Abstract

Along with technological advancements and the rapid development of industrial areas, concerns have emerged regarding the deterioration of air quality due to increasing levels of air pollution. According to Government Regulation Number 41 of 1999 on Air Pollution Control, air pollution is defined as a decline in air quality that causes the air to no longer function in accordance with its intended use. Ambient air quality monitoring is generally conducted using two approaches, namely manual and automatic methods. The manual method involves the collection of air samples followed by laboratory analysis and can be further classified into passive and active sampling techniques. Ambient air sampling requires adequate equipment and appropriate sampling procedures that comply with established standards. However, the high cost of air quality monitoring instruments and their limited availability within relevant local institutions hinder the optimal implementation of air quality monitoring programs. Therefore, this study aims to design and develop an ambient air sampling device as well as a microbiological air sampling device using methods that comply with the Indonesian National Standard (SNI). The devices are constructed using materials that are readily available through online marketplaces and assembled in the workshop of Poltekkes Kemenkes Bengkulu. Following the assembly process, functional testing is conducted to evaluate device performance and to identify and correct any errors arising from the manufacturing process.