Invention Summary:
Wildfires release pollutants comprising a mixture of gases and fine particulate matter (PM2.5) which are hazardous to human health. Indoor PM 2.5 concentrations depend on outdoor concentrations, infiltration, ventilation, filtration systems used and indoor sources. Current air purification products are high cost, have a large physical footprint and need continuous power.
Researchers at Rutgers University have designed a novel two-phase, environmentally friendly, low-cost air purification device that could run off a backup battery for emergencies. The two-phase air purification mechanism ensures efficient removal of air pollutants including PM2.5. The device is designed to fully cycle and clean the air in a 150 square foot room. The first phase of this air purifier comprises a modified wet scrubber which generates aerosolized water droplets for capturing PM2.5 trapped in turbid water droplet >10 microns. The second phase of this air purifier comprises concentric rings made of vertically arranged stainless steel wires. Turbid droplets <10 microns not captured by the first phase can be efficiently collected on these wires. The system contains a filter allowing for recycling of the water for continuous, high efficiency operation.
Advantages:
• Low-cost
• Powered by battery
• Ozone-free operation
• Evaporative Cooling Benefits
• Scalable design and ease of manufacturability
• 45 Db – Noise level in a library
Market Applications:
• Air purification in wildfire smoke environments
Intellectual Property & Development Status: Patent pending. Available for licensing and/or research collaboration.
