Continuous air purification by aqueous interface filtration and absorption

Yunmao Zhang, Yuhang Han, Xiaoliang Ji, Duyang Zang, Long Qiao, Zhizhi Sheng, Chunyan Wang, Shuli Wang, Miao Wang, Yaqi Hou, Xinyu Chen and Xu Hou ()
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Yunmao Zhang: Xiamen University
Yuhang Han: Xiamen University
Xiaoliang Ji: Northwestern Polytechnical University
Duyang Zang: Northwestern Polytechnical University
Long Qiao: Xiamen University
Zhizhi Sheng: Xiamen University
Chunyan Wang: Xiamen University
Shuli Wang: Xiamen University
Miao Wang: Jiujiang Research Institute, College of Physical Science and Technology, Xiamen University
Yaqi Hou: Xiamen University
Xinyu Chen: Xiamen University
Xu Hou: Xiamen University

Nature, 2022, vol. 610, issue 7930, 74-80

Abstract: Abstract The adverse impact of particulate air pollution on human health1,2 has prompted the development of purification systems that filter particulates out of air3–5. To maintain performance, the filter units must inevitably be replaced at some point, which requires maintenance, involves costs and generates solid waste6,7. Here we show that an ion-doped conjugated polymer-coated matrix infiltrated with a selected functional liquid enables efficient, continuous and maintenance-free air purification. As the air to be purified moves through the system in the form of bubbles, the functional fluid provides interfaces for filtration and for removal of particulate matter and pollutant molecules from air. Theoretical modelling and experimental results demonstrate that the system exhibits high efficiency and robustness: its one-time air purification efficiency can reach 99.6%, and its dust-holding capacity can reach 950 g m−2. The system is durable and resistant to fouling and corrosion, and the liquid acting as filter can be reused and adjusted to also enable removal of bacteria or odours. We anticipate that our purification approach will be useful for the development of specialist air purifiers that might prove useful in a settings such as hospitals, factories and mines.

Date: 2022
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DOI: 10.1038/s41586-022-05124-y

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