Carbon Dioxide – Aeroqual Sensors

Why measure Carbon Dioxide?

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a naturally occurring gas which acts as the primary source of carbon in life on Earth. It is also a primary greenhouse gas; carbon dioxide absorbs and emits infrared radiation causing warming of the Earth’s surface and lower atmosphere. Indoors, elevated levels of CO2 can lead to drowsiness, headaches as well as a reduction in productivity.

Where does it come from?

Natural Sources

In the carbon cycle, carbon is released into the atmosphere from various sources and absorbed again in natural sinks (reservoirs). Humans and plants give off carbon dioxide through respiration, making them a source and a sink, releasing CO2 and absorbing it through natural processes. Volcanic eruptions act as a natural source of CO2.

Industrial Sources

Since the industrial revolution there has been a significant increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide due to human activity. The main sources of CO2 gas include electricity generation, transportation, and industrial processes which all involve combustion of fossil fuels. The increase in atmospheric CO2 has been shown to cause changes in the global environment including climate change and ocean acidification.

Indoor Sources

People are the main source of carbon dioxide emissions in indoor environments due to CO2 being the main gas emitted during respiration. The higher the number of occupants in the building space, the higher the concentration of CO2. Most heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems re-circulate indoor air leading to increasing CO2 concentrations. IT is therefore important to measure indoor Co2 to ensure healthy levels are maintained.