The Importance of Measuring NO2 Concentration

Oct 13, 2025 by windailys.com 8 views

Determining the Concentration of Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) in the Campus Area of the University of North Sumatra using the Griess Saltzman Method

Introduction

The use of fossil fuels in daily human activities, including transportation and industry, has a significant impact on the environment, particularly in terms of air pollution. Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and nitrogen oxide (NOX) are two major pollutants that contribute to air pollution, posing a threat to public health and the sustainability of the ecosystem. Therefore, it is essential to measure and monitor the concentration of NO2 in the ambient air to maintain air quality and prevent potential health risks.

The Importance of Measuring NO2 Concentration

Measuring NO2 levels is crucial in determining the concentration of pollutants in the ambient air. The Griess Saltzman method is a widely used technique for measuring NO2 concentration, which involves two main steps: sampling and making calibration curves. This method is effective in detecting NO2 levels, making it an essential tool in monitoring air quality.

Measurement of NO2 Concentration in the Campus Area of the University of North Sumatra

The measurement of NO2 concentration in the campus area of the University of North Sumatra was conducted using the Griess Saltzman method. The test results showed that the NO2 concentration at several points around the campus was as follows:

At the intersection of the door of one University of North Sumatra (measurement point 11, 12, 13), the NO2 concentration was 22.12 μg/m3, 40.37 μg/m3, and 16.32 μg/m3.
At the door area four (measurement points 21, 22, 23), the NO2 concentration was 19.81 μg/m3, 18.94 μg/m3, and 18.08 μg/m3.
In the front area of the soccer field (measurement point 31, 32, 33), the NO2 concentration was 7.71 μg/m3, 7.71 μg/m3, and 9.41 μg/m3 during the duration of one hour sampling.

Comparison with the Standard Value

According to Government Regulation No. 41 of 1999, the threshold value of the NO2 concentration in the ambient air for one hour is 400 μg/nm3. Comparing the sample test results with the standard value, it can be concluded that the NO2 concentration in the campus area of the University of North Sumatra is still in a safe level and does not endanger public health.

Additional Analysis and Explanation

From the measurement results made, it appears that although there are human activities that use fossil fuels around the campus, the NO2 concentration remains below the specified threshold. This shows a fairly good air management in the region. However, although this result is classified as positive, it is essential to continue to monitor air quality given the long-term impact of air pollution can damage the environment and public health.

The Griess Saltzman method used for NO2 measurement is also a method that has been proven effective and is often used in monitoring air quality. By conducting routine and continuous checks, we can be more proactive in dealing with the potential for future pollution. This effort is not only beneficial for the environment but can also increase public awareness about the importance of maintaining air quality.

Implications for Sustainability

In the context of sustainability, this result can be the basis for the university and other stakeholders to formulate a more effective policy in managing transportation and industry around the campus. With preventive steps, we can ensure that the concentration of pollution is maintained at a safe level, not only for students and staff, but also for the surrounding community.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the measurement of NO2 concentration in the campus area of the University of North Sumatra using the Griess Saltzman method has shown that the NO2 concentration is still in a safe level and does not endanger public health. However, it is essential to continue to monitor air quality and implement preventive measures to maintain a safe level of pollution. This effort can contribute to the sustainability of the ecosystem and the well-being of the community.

Recommendations

Based on the results of this study, the following recommendations are made:

Continue to monitor air quality in the campus area of the University of North Sumatra using the Griess Saltzman method.
Implement preventive measures to maintain a safe level of pollution, such as reducing the use of fossil fuels and promoting the use of alternative energy sources.
Formulate a more effective policy in managing transportation and industry around the campus.
Increase public awareness about the importance of maintaining air quality and the potential risks of air pollution.

Limitations of the Study

This study has several limitations, including:

The measurement of NO2 concentration was conducted at a limited number of points around the campus.
The study did not consider the long-term impact of air pollution on the environment and public health.
The study did not provide a comprehensive analysis of the factors that contribute to air pollution in the campus area.

Future Research Directions

Future research directions include:

Conducting a more comprehensive analysis of the factors that contribute to air pollution in the campus area.
Investigating the long-term impact of air pollution on the environment and public health.
Developing a more effective policy in managing transportation and industry around the campus.

References

Government Regulation No. 41 of 1999.
World Health Organization (WHO). (2018). Air pollution.
United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). (2020). Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) pollution.

Note: The references provided are a selection of relevant sources and are not an exhaustive list.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Determining the Concentration of Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) in the Campus Area of the University of North Sumatra using the Griess Saltzman Method

Q: What is the Griess Saltzman method?

A: The Griess Saltzman method is a widely used technique for measuring the concentration of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) in the ambient air. It involves two main steps: sampling and making calibration curves.

Q: Why is it important to measure NO2 concentration?

A: Measuring NO2 concentration is crucial in determining the level of air pollution in a given area. NO2 is a major pollutant that can pose a threat to public health and the sustainability of the ecosystem.

Q: What are the benefits of using the Griess Saltzman method?

A: The Griess Saltzman method is an effective and widely used technique for measuring NO2 concentration. It provides accurate results and is often used in monitoring air quality.

Q: What are the limitations of the Griess Saltzman method?

A: While the Griess Saltzman method is effective, it has some limitations. It requires specialized equipment and trained personnel to operate, and it may not be suitable for measuring NO2 concentration in areas with high levels of interference.

Q: What are the implications of the study for sustainability?

A: The study's findings suggest that the university and other stakeholders can use the results to formulate a more effective policy in managing transportation and industry around the campus. This can help to maintain a safe level of pollution and contribute to the sustainability of the ecosystem.

Q: What are the recommendations for future research directions?

A: Future research directions include conducting a more comprehensive analysis of the factors that contribute to air pollution in the campus area, investigating the long-term impact of air pollution on the environment and public health, and developing a more effective policy in managing transportation and industry around the campus.

Q: What are the potential risks of air pollution?

A: Air pollution can pose a threat to public health and the sustainability of the ecosystem. It can cause respiratory problems, cardiovascular disease, and other health issues, and can also damage the environment and ecosystems.

Q: How can individuals contribute to reducing air pollution?

A: Individuals can contribute to reducing air pollution by reducing their use of fossil fuels, promoting the use of alternative energy sources, and supporting policies that aim to reduce air pollution.

Q: What are the key takeaways from the study?

A: The study's key takeaways include the importance of measuring NO2 concentration, the effectiveness of the Griess Saltzman method, and the implications of the study for sustainability.

Q: What are the next steps for the university and other stakeholders?

A: The next steps for the university and other stakeholders include continuing to monitor air quality, implementing preventive measures to maintain a safe level of pollution, and formulating a more effective policy in managing transportation and industry around the campus.

Q: How can the public stay informed about air quality and pollution?

A: The public can stay informed about air quality and pollution by checking with local authorities, monitoring air quality indexes, and staying up-to-date with the latest research and findings on air pollution.

Q: What are the potential applications of the study's findings?

A: The study's findings have potential applications in a variety of fields, including environmental science, public health, and policy-making. They can be used to inform decision-making and policy development related to air pollution and sustainability.