Ionospheric and Geomagnetic Research

The studies involve air pollution monitoring, drinking / waste water analysis, monitoring of soil degradation, effluent sampling and analysis and stack emission monitoring and policy recommendations for proper management of industrial pollution. The technique of dispersion modeling is also used during studies, as required. The scope of the air pollution monitoring include study ambient air quality by measuring concentration of criteria pollutants including CO, SO2, NOx, O3 and H-Cs (Both Methane & Non Methane) including CO2 levels and aerosol samples collection including Particulate Matter (TSP and PM10) and analysis for toxic & trace metals such as lead, cadmium, vanadium, manganese, arsenic, chromium and others.
Besides ambient air monitoring, indoor air pollution facilities and expertise are also available to monitor and report indoor environmental quality problems like inadequate ventilation with subsequent mold growth, and elevated levels of asbestos, radon, formaldehyde and other volatile organic compound (VOCs). The ultimate purpose of monitoring is not merely to collect data, but to study socio-economic and health impacts and provide the information necessary for scientists, policy makers and planners to make decisions on managing and improving the environment.
Modern mobile environmental laboratories are fully equipped with advanced sampling & monitoring instruments along with online recorders and database management programs to carry out short term or long term projects. Mobile laboratory is equipped with US EPA designated ambient air analyzers for all criteria pollutants as well as weather station to monitor meteorological parameters. Air mobile labs are also equipped with high precision Noise level recorders for noise pollution assessment.
In addition, a modern analytical laboratory is equipped with soil and water testing instruments (e.g. Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer, Ion Chromatograph, UV / VIS Spectrophotometer, Conductivity, pH & TDS Meters, COD Reactor, BOD Incubators etc.) US EPA, 40CFR standard procedures are followed for analysis of hydrocarbons, lead, cadmium, Cesium, Zinc, Nickel, Calcium, Sodium, asbestos; and ASTM methods for water parameters.
The data acquired during the monitoring campaign is analyzed by comparing the levels with standards for ambient air, water, effluents, noise recognized nationally (Pak-EPA guidelines, NEQS by Govt. of Pakistan) as well as internationally such as USEPA, WHO and World Bank.