WHAT IS AIR EMISSION MONITORING?

Air emission monitoring involves measuring and analyzing pollutants released into the atmosphere from stationary sources such as stacks, boilers, and other industrial equipment within manufacturing or processing facilities. The goal is to ensure emissions remain within regulatory limits set by environmental authorities, thereby helping industries maintain compliance and protect air quality.

WHAT IS STACK EMISSION MONITORING?

Stack emission monitoring is a specific type of air emission monitoring that focuses on pollutants discharged through fixed stacks, chimneys, or exhaust vents. It measures emissions directly at the source to determine whether the facility meets the Department of Environment (DOE) and international air quality standards.

THE IMPORTANCE OF STACK EMISSION MONITORING

Stack emission monitoring is essential for maintaining environmental compliance and ensuring responsible industrial operations. It helps industries to monitor, control, and improve emission performance in several key areas:

• Ensuring Regulatory Compliance: Stack emission monitoring is required under the DOE Clean Air Regulations 2014. Regular testing ensures emissions from stacks and chimneys stay within legal limits, helping facilities avoid fines and operational disruptions.
• Protecting the Environment: Accurate measurement of exhaust gases helps reduce the release of harmful pollutants into the atmosphere. It supports cleaner air and global sustainability goals.
  
• Safeguarding Health and Safety: Monitoring emissions prevents workers and nearby communities from exposure to hazardous substances. Early detection allows timely corrective actions before risks escalate.
  
• Improving Operational Efficiency: Regular monitoring helps assess combustion and equipment performance. It helps identify inefficiencies so businesses can fine-tune systems, save fuel, and cut unnecessary maintenance costs.

PARAMETERS AND POLLUTANTS ANALYZED IN AIR EMISSIONS FROM STACK SOURCES

• Dark Smoke – Visual assessment of smoke opacity to evaluate combustion efficiency.
• Carbon Monoxide (CO) – Indicates incomplete combustion and potential system inefficiency.
• Oxygen (O₂) & Carbon Dioxide (CO₂) – Measure combustion quality and emission balance.
• Hydrogen Halides (HCl, HBr, HF) – Corrosive gases from chemical and combustion processes.
• Halogens (Cl₂, Br₂, F₂) – Reactive gases harmful to health and the environment.
• Nitrogen Oxides (NO, NO₂) – Major contributors to smog and acid rain.
• Sulfur Dioxide (SO₂) – Produced from burning sulfur-containing fuels; causes respiratory issues.
• Sulfuric Acid (H₂SO₄) – Formed from SO₂ oxidation; monitored for corrosive and health impacts.
• Particulate Matter (PM) – Fine particles that affect air quality and respiratory health.
• Metals (Sb, As, Ba, Be, Cd, Cr, Co, Cu, Pb, Mn, Hg, Ni, P, Se, Ag, Tl, Zn, Al, Fe) – Trace metals from combustion or industrial processes, monitored for toxicity and regulatory compliance.