Pura Aer 2: Dual-Stage, Energy-Efficient, Modular Air Purifier System, Inspired by Porifera to Improve Air Quality

Overview

Objective: Air pollution, especially PM 2.5, affects the health of millions of people globally, causing premature death. Outdoor air pollutants impact indoor air quality by leaking inside. The goal is to develop a low-cost and energy-efficient air purifier system inspired by sponges, phylum Porifera, passive filter feeders. Methods: Pura Aer 2 (PA2) was developed in 5 phases and consists of 3 main parts (purifier structure, Air Mesh, Air Tunnel), implementing the sponge’s canal systems and hyperbolic shape. Control was original PA using face masks as filters. Results: PA2 as a dual-stage filtration system outperforms control in filter performance, reaching Good Air Quality from hazardous levels in 20 minutes, removing 94% more pollutants in 15 mins with energy efficiency 160% higher than control. PA2 generates airflow higher than the ASHRAE indoor ventilation standard (0.35 ACPH) using 5W of power and requires no consumable filters. Air Mesh captures particles using mesh patterns and sieving. Air Tunnel provides high-efficiency and clog-resistant filtration, implementing the Coanda Effect and inertia to separate particles. Solidworks flow simulation (airflow and particle flow) supported results, high-speed air increases particle gas separation. System optimization modularizes the design and reduces cost to $48.47. Conclusions: Dual-Stage filtration removes the most pollutants, as Air Tunnel filters the majority of particles and prevents clogs, while Air Mesh captures any leaked particles as a secondary filter. Air Tunnel’s hyperbolic shape maintains high airflow, improving filtering performance. Modular design (nesting and stackable) makes PA2 more functional and portable. PA2 improves air quality and reduces air pollution-caused health risks.

Awards (1)

Category Award: 4

Competition history

CSEF 2023 Applied Mechanics & Structures · Entry S0302

Resources

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ISEF · 2023