The increasing concerns over air pollution, allergies, and airborne viruses have heightened the need for efficient air purification systems. Air pollution occurs when harmful or excessive quantities of substances including gases, particles, and biological molecules are introduced into Earth\'s atmosphere. It may cause diseases, allergies and even death to humans; it may also cause harm to other living organisms such as animals and food crops, and may damage the natural or built environment. Both human activity and natural processes can generate air pollution.
This project focuses on the fabrication and testing of an advanced air purifier integrated with a viral filter to combat these challenges. The proposed air purifier utilizes a multi-stage filtration process that includes HEPA filters, activated carbon, UV-C rod and a specialized viral filter designed to trap and neutralize viral particles. The key parameters such as airflow rate, filter life, energy consumption, and purification efficiency are measured during the testing phase. The results of this study provide valuable insights into the practical applications of advanced air purifiers with viral filters in improving indoor air quality and safeguarding public health.
Introduction
Air pollution poses serious health risks worldwide, especially due to airborne pathogens like viruses. While reducing pollution sources is the long-term solution, air purifiers are vital for controlling current pollution levels and reducing disease transmission risks in homes and industries.
This project aims to develop an efficient air purification system using six stages of filtration, including pre-filters, air filters, centrifugal airflow for dust removal, and UV-C light for microbial deactivation.
Air impurities are classified as natural (dust, pollen, smoke) and man-made pollutants (PM2.5, PM10, CO, SO?, NO?, VOCs, ozone). The system targets removal of particulate matter and pathogens through a combination of filters such as activated carbon and viral filters, enhanced by UV-C radiation.
The methodology includes:
Design Phase: Establishing specifications (filtration efficiency, airflow, noise, cost), selecting filtration technologies (UV-C light, activated carbon, dust and viral filters), and designing optimal airflow and housing.
Fabrication Phase: Selecting materials (high-efficiency filters, antimicrobial coatings, durable casing), assembling the system with integrated sensors and UV-C lamps, and ensuring ease of maintenance.
Testing Phase: Evaluating filtration efficiency, airflow rate, clean air delivery rate (CADR), noise levels, power consumption, durability, and safety compliance.
Optimization Phase: Refining airflow, filter materials, and system features based on test results.
Final Evaluation: Real-world testing in various environments to verify performance.
Key performance metrics include airflow rate (~53 CFM), power consumption (fan 7.2 W, UV-C lamp 8 W, sensors 2.25 W), and filter efficiency. The system emphasizes cost-effectiveness, portability, and the ability to reduce airborne pathogens effectively.
Conclusion
The development of this multi-stage air purifier represents a significant stride toward addressing the increasing concerns surrounding indoor air quality, particularly in the wake of global health crises caused by airborne pathogens. The system integrates a comprehensive filtration process that includes a pre-filter for large particulate matter, air filter, an activated carbon filter for chemical and odour adsorption, and an optional UV-based sterilization stage aimed specifically at deactivating viruses and bacteria.
1) IoT integration for real-time monitoring.
2) Adaptive airflow control.
3) Make this purifier based on renewable energy with the help of solar panel and batteries.
4) Installed AQI with purifier at every stage of filtrations.
References
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