This past Saturday (7th September 2024), Cork City marked the United Nations’ International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies for the second year in a row, and it was a vibrant day filled with events aimed at raising awareness of air quality and its impact on health. The theme for this year, “Clean Air Now”, emphasised the urgency of tackling air pollution, with activities taking place across the city, from Grand Parade to Tramore Valley Park.
As part of the Cork Clean Air Day celebrations, RADICAL researchers from University College Cork led interactive public demonstrations on air quality, including showcasing the technology and science behind our innovative research.
RADICAL team setting up our interactive stall. (From left) Dr Stig Hellebust, (Lecturer, UCC School of Chemistry), Abhisweta Bhattacharjee (Project Officer, UCC Academy), and Dr Niall O’Sullivan (Post Doctoral Researcher, UCC School of Chemistry). Picture credit: Noel Sweeney
What’s that smell?
One of the highlights of RADICAL’s participation was a hands-on exploration of how we recognise and interpret smells. Visitors were invited to smell four unknown scents—rose perfume, kerosene firelighter cubes, nail polish, and orange—and match them with laminated pictures of the correct smells. This exercise helped illustrate the complexity of scent recognition, making it accessible and interactive for participants of all ages.
The Challenge of Building an Electronic Nose
Building on the theme of smell, the RADICAL team discussed our aim to replicate this ability on a chip, i.e. a so-called “electronic nose,” and the significant challenge that this presents. Visitors were introduced to current air sensors used to detect particles and gases such as CO2, and NO2. These sensors often rely on advanced or bulky technology like lasers and filters. These sensors, while highly accurate, are typically large, expensive, and challenging to deploy in everyday environments.
The full interactive RADICAL stall with Dr Hellebust and Dr Niall
Cutting-Edge Air Quality Detection on a Chip
Demonstrating the small, portable chips to detect highly reactive air pollutants such as ozone and radicals was a highlight. Visitors had the chance to observe one of these chips under a microscope, with the RADICAL team explaining what visitors saw on the screen.
RADICAL’s work aims to simplify air quality detection by using powerful computer algorithms to analyse the complex signals from various gases. If successful, this technology could become the first of its kind, making it possible to monitor air quality in real time, even in the most inaccessible places.
Read more: The Challenge of Measuring Radicals in the Atmosphere
More Than Just Air Quality: A Broader Scientific Experience
RADICAL’s booth also allowed visitors to explore the wonders of microscopy, giving them the chance to examine everyday objects such as coins, clothing, glasses, and jewellery under a microscope. This interactive activity proved especially popular, offering a glimpse into the world of materials science.
Dr Hellebust demonstrating the science behind the RADICAL project to a visitor
Wrapping up
Cork’s celebration of the International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies featured a variety of events that actively engaged the public on the critical issue of air quality. We extend our sincere thanks to Cork City Council for the opportunity to connect with Cork residents and share insights from our research. We were particularly gratified by the interest shown by the Lord Mayor of Cork, Cllr Dan Boyle, and we appreciated the opportunity to discuss with him the importance of air quality monitoring and the latest developments in the field.
(Left and centre) Glimpses of Lord Mayor of Cork, Cllr Dan Boyle, interacting with the RADICAL team. (Right) Lord Mayor of Cork, Cllr Dan Boyle posing with participants of Cork Clean Air Day 2024. Picture credit: Noel Sweeney
RADICAL’s participation added a unique scientific perspective, allowing visitors to not only learn about the dangers of air pollution but also experience firsthand the innovative technologies being developed to combat it.
As we reflect on this year’s theme, “Clean Air Now”, RADICAL’s work underscores the importance of ongoing research and innovation in addressing the global air quality challenge—one sensor, one chip, and one conversation at a time.
Check out the highlights of the day:
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Read the press release from Cork Safety Alerts, Cork City Council and Irish Independent.
