University of Bath Unveils Revolutionary Air Purifier Design Utilizing FOAM3R Filter Technology

Sunday - January 21 2024, 06:28 UTC - 10 months ago

The University of Bath has unveiled a revolutionary air purifier design that utilizes FOAM3R filter technology to efficiently remove viruses, VOCs, and CO2 from the air. The technology is versatile and can be used in various settings, with potential applications in aircraft, cars, homes, and more. The foam used in the design is also environmentally friendly, making it a sustainable solution for air purification needs.

In response to the growing global concern over air pollution, especially in densely populated urban areas, researchers at the University of Bath have unveiled a groundbreaking air purifier design that promises to revolutionize the industry. Utilizing FOAM3R filter technology, this new design offers not only superior virus-stopping performance, but also addresses the issue of harmful waste produced by traditional air purifiers.

The FOAM3R technology, patented by the University, serves as a highly adaptable disruptor for microbial, CO2, and VOC odor removal. Its versatility has been demonstrated through successful applications in aircraft cabins, in-car air filters, ship and boat cabins, residential HVAC systems, home air purifiers, and respirators and breathing apparatuses. This innovative foam, made from a high-temperature polymer and active media, employs selective adsorbents to capture contaminants and antibacterial agents to combat microbes. The result is a remarkable 99.999 percent efficiency in removing common bacteria and viruses, providing a much-needed solution for households and industries alike.

One of the key features of the FOAM3R technology is its tailorable composition, which allows for targeted capture of a wide range of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). This includes both unpleasant odors and potentially harmful compounds that may pose a threat to human health. Additionally, the FOAM3R technology has shown promising results in removing CO2 from the air, further enhancing its efficacy in creating a healthier living environment.

The home air purifier design, currently in the prototype stage, utilizes two cylindrical columns of FOAM3R material. While one column purifies the air, the other undergoes a 'regeneration' process through heating, restoring the foam’s sorbent properties. This unique process not only eliminates collected pollutants and microbial debris, but also recovers volatile components through cooling and condensation. The recovered liquid can be safely disposed of, making the FOAM3R technology a zero waste solution to air purification.

In addition to its impressive performance and zero waste feature, the FOAM3R technology also boasts an environmentally friendly manufacturing process. Created through a simple one-step process, the foam is easy to shape into different form factors and can even be retrofitted into existing air purification systems. Its energy efficiency also outshines comparable carbon-granule-based systems, making it a more sustainable alternative for air purification needs.

Professor Semali Perera, from Bath’s Department of Chemical Engineering, expressed enthusiasm about the air purifier design and FOAM3R technology, stating, "We have created a highly efficient design, with none of the disposable cartridges or waste that we see in many commercial air purifiers, so there are several benefits to what we’ve created. Our next step is to engage potential commercial partners with the requisite expertise to bring our invention to the market." .

This innovative air purifier design and FOAM3R technology could mark a significant stride in air purification, offering a sustainable and efficient solution with potential applications across various industries. With its ability to be customized for specific pollutants, the FOAM3R filter technology is a versatile solution for addressing the growing issue of air pollution.