Parametric Study of Drone-based Gas Pollution Monitoring System Integrating Internet of Things Technology

Abstract

Gas pollution is predominant in the area of Niger Delta, Nigeria due to large volume of oil and gas exploration and their related activities. The environment is often affected by flared gases, which are harmful to humans, aquatic life in the ocean, animals and the natural environment. This study presents a novel approach for monitoring air pollution with drone and Internet of Things (IoT) technology. The design utilizes electrochemical sensors for detection of hazardous gases and ESP8266 module for real time data transmission and cloud-based data presentation. The system facilitates sustainable environmental studies by providing access to areas that are hard or unsafe to reach, anytime. The research locations were Okoromboko and Okoroutip communities in the Eastern Obolo Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. The results show affordable method for measurement of air quality in real time, especially in the challenging areas that are affected by oil and gas exploration, production and refining processes, such as Niger Delta region of Nigeria. The study demonstrates feasibility of harnessing drone and IOT for real-time environmental monitoring aimed at equipping researchers and policy makers with data to protect human lives, public health and sustainable development. While minor limitations were observed, such as restricted flight duration and short range of Wi-Fi connectivity, these challenges can be addressed in future study through advancement in battery technology, consideration of long-range communication protocols and application of machine learning technology.