Title : Algae-based indoor air purifier
Abstract:
Air pollution represents an emerging global concern that impacts human health and the environment. Exposure to pollutants such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) has been linked to respiratory diseases, cardiovascular disorders, and early mortality, with studies estimating millions of annual fatalities due to poor
air quality. Climate-related concerns, like extreme weather and rising sea levels, are intensified by greenhouse gases such as methane and carbon dioxide (CO?), exacerbating the impacts of global warming. Urban regions are more vulnerable due to elevated pollution from industrial activities, transportation, and energy production. Initiatives have been implemented to combat air pollution. Existing purification methods, including activated carbon filters, HEPA filters, chemical absorption techniques, and ionizers, have been employed for many years to address this issue; however, they encounter limitations such as increased waste generation, elevated energy consumption, and a restricted range of pollutant removal. Consequently, there is an urgent necessity to devise creative remedies for air pollution. This study examines a novel method utilizing an algae-assisted microbial fuel cell (MFC) aimed at carbon capture and the reduction of PM10, VOCs, NOx, SOx, and bioaerosols. The harvested biomass can be transformed into biofuels, fertilizers, or other important byproducts, augmenting both economic and ecological value. This work involves the construction of an algal-based prototype using diverse strains of algae, In which Chlorella vulgaris strains capture more than 90% of CO?. Additionally, the algal biomass rises by 78%, making it suitable for use as a biofertilizer, while simultaneously mitigating more than 80% of NOx and SOx from indoor air.
Keywords: Algal air purifier, Mitigation of multi-pollutants, Oxygen production, Indoor air quality
