Microfluidic-based real-time detector for fine particulate matter

Monitoring particulate matter smaller than 2.5 μm diameter (PM2.5) is important as the exposure to PM2.5 is linked to increased mortality and morbidity. We demonstrate a real-time PM2.5 detector consisting of an inertial microfluidic impactor that removes large aerosol particles from an air sample and an integrated light-scattering optical particle counter. The impactor is designed for a cut-off particle diameter of 2.5 μm. The low-cost detection system shows good correlation with a commercial aerodynamic particle sizer within 1 minute sampling intervals, suitable for real-time personal exposure monitoring.