Nanotech-NSTDA Launches 'e-Nose' Electronic Sensor to Pinpoint PM2.5 Sources for Sustainable Pollution Control

On February 18, 2026, the National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA) held a press interview event featuring researchers discussing their groundbreaking environmental innovation. Dr. Urasha Raksatanonchai, director of the National Nanotechnology Center, revealed that environmental issues, particularly fine particulate matter, are a critical national challenge that requires innovative nano-level solutions. The e-Nose technology, previously used commercially for food and fragrance quality testing, has now been elevated to address environmental missions. The team plans to deploy 100 prototype sensors across five pilot areas, including open spaces, rice fields, cornfields, fruit orchards, and natural forests. Using AI and advanced mathematical models, the system can process real-time data to distinguish the chemical signatures of different PM2.5 sources. "Our initial agricultural area tests show that the e-Nose can precisely identify whether high PM2.5 levels are from sugar cane burning in neighboring areas or chemical reactions from agricultural fertilizers," explained Dr. Rungrot Maulanonda from the research team. This level of detail will enable government agencies to target interventions and provide targeted education to specific communities.