A Novel Device For Air Filtration
BIO FILTERS
This biofilter combines the properties of algae, the fibrous strength of sponge gourds, and the remedial capabilities of fungal mycelium. By harnessing the biological features of these elements, this biofilter represents a novel approach to the air pollution problem and promises a more eco-friendly and effective way to breathe cleaner air in both urban environments.
01
Filamentous Algea Sheets
Photosynthetic bacteria and microalgae can be cultivated in photobioreactors to mitigate CO2 and fix carbon for other applications (Klinthong et al., 2015). Microbes have been earlier used for the adsorption of metals from PM and wastewaters (Romera et al., 2007).
A New Approach:
Bio Filters With Degradable Materials
02
Fungal Mycelium
Fungal mycelium can filter toxic gases in the air by providing a large surface area for gas interaction, breaking down pollutants, absorbing and adsorbing gases, and utilizing pollutants as nutrients.
03
Dried Sponge Gourd Sheets
The reason we are using the fibrous support of the sponge gourd is because it has a strong capacity for independent adsorption.
The biofilter consists of a laminate composite material made from fibrous support of sponge gourd (Luffa cylindrica) alternated with sheets of various algae strains, mainly Chlorella, Scenedesmus, and Spirogyra, and fungal mycelium.
This combination capitalizes on the independent adsorption capabilities of the sponge gourd's fibrous support and the dry algal biomass. The filter was designed to effectively capture and remove a range of air pollutants, including carbon monoxide (CO), nitric oxide (NO), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and fine particulate matter (PM2.5) from vehicular emissions and indoor sources.
The algae filaments were isolated and dried, while the same process was made for the mycelium, the dried sponge gourds were machine pressed for even thickness. After all the preprocessing for this biomass was done we alternated the layers to give a laminate composite.
The biofilter is an innovative, economical, and eco-friendly solution for air purification, effectively reducing a wide range of pollutants in both outdoor and indoor environments. The study highlights the significance of recycling components and reducing air pollution, particularly in rural and urban areas where various sources of pollution exist.