In late May, the University of Utah unveiled Trace Air Quality (Trace AQ), a new venture dedicated to air quality forecasting, akin to everyday weather applications.
The initiative, spearheaded by researchers Heather Holmes, Derek Mallia, and Kai Wilmot, aims to deliver real-time air quality forecasts and implement accessible solutions for a diverse range of enterprise clients.
Creating Trace AQ has been a project in development for approximately three years, according to Holmes, an associate professor in Chemical Engineering at the University.
“Trace AQ is developing the air quality engine, so we developed the modeling to be able to provide that data 123 days in advance,” she explained.
The collaboration brought together the unique specialties of Holmes, Mallia, and Wilmot to create a comprehensive approach to air quality forecasting.
Mallia, an assistant research professor in the Department of Atmospheric Science, shared, “We had a vision to come up with a sustainability plan for developing forecasting tools that specifically focus on air quality.
We started to explore the commercialization behind developing this tool.”
Currently, within just six months, the team has successfully produced a prototype.
As of mid-June, Trace AQ operates as a data provider, selling air quality information to prospective clients who can leverage this data for various applications.
Mallia added, “We’re not just selling to people that develop apps, but also insurance companies that might have an interest in this data in terms of smoke exposure.
The National Forest Service is interested in this data for fire management operations, and there is a market for firefighting efforts, as well.”
The technology developed by Trace AQ not only identifies the locations of ongoing wildfires but also predicts their potential size and smoke output.
Crucially, it tracks the anticipated movement of smoke, a feature hoped to bolster wildfire management across the Western United States and assist communities grappling with smoke-related issues.
Business growth is also a priority for Trace AQ, as the venture emphasizes marketing and strategic outreach.
Tom Georgis, Managing Director of the University’s Technology Licensing Office (TLO), elaborated on the institution’s commitment to the commercialization of technology developed on campus.
The TLO facilitates connections between innovative projects and potential clients while assisting faculty and students in securing funding.
“Nothing like [Trace AQ] exists on the market right now,” Georgis stated.
“You can think of [the TLO] as an incubator.
We help advance and de-risk the technology before we launch a startup.
We develop a business plan.”
Trace AQ’s ultimate aim is to enhance access to air quality information, empowering individuals and businesses to prepare for days with deteriorating air conditions.
“Our goals really are to improve air quality models and get our data out there, so companies that want access to this data can start giving it to users who would benefit—and potentially grow globally,” Holmes concluded.
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