Statistical air monitoring - underground
Statistical Air Monitoring - Underground (SAM-UG) is a physics-informed, real-time contamination monitoring platform which uses spatial statistical methods to provide clear answers to contamination distributions in enclosed environments with identifiable airflow behavior (CFD, smoke tubes, tracer gas, etc). The platform requires no knowledge of spatial statistics and serves as a strong compliment to CFD modeling when real-time information is needed. SAM-UG can be tailored to support multiple contaminants, inclusion of explanatory variables (temperature, humidity, air pressure), and has been proven to yield comparable monitoring uncertainty to existing low-cost area and personal monitors (<30% for PM 2.5).
SAM-UG has been validated in simulation as well as experimentally for turbulent flow (Re>2000). Testing in an underground mining environment shows that the technology and estimation method is ready for wide-scale stress testing, further development, and implementation for any enclosed space air quality monitoring needs. This platform is well suited for industrial and mining ventilation applications, either within ducted systems or in larger open spaces. SAM-UG can provide a level of clarity for area monitoring previously off-limits for industrial hygienists and environmental safety managers. This technology allows for rapid response and a means to proactively address air quality rather than addressing critical health and environment risks after the fact.
About Tennessee State University
Tennessee State University conducts applied and fundamental research across agriculture and environmental sciences, engineering and computer science, education and learning sciences, and health and behavioral studies. Its land‑grant programs include agricultural research and Cooperative Extension with long‑running USDA‑supported projects in plant science, urban agriculture, food safety, and natural resource management. Notable research units include the College of Agriculture’s research programs and extension centers, the Center of Excellence for Learning Sciences, and the Center of Excellence in Information Systems, along with specialized facilities such as the Otis L. Floyd Nursery Research Center. TSU investigators regularly secure funding from federal agencies including USDA‑NIFA, NSF, NIH, and the State of Tennessee, often in partnership with regional industry and community organizations. Technology transfer and outreach emphasize practical solutions in sustainable agriculture, biotechnology, data and information systems, and workforce development for Middle Tennessee and beyond.
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