A Novel, Aerodynamics-augmented Continuous Ionization System for Electrostatic Collection of Bioaerosols

Safe and efficient air ionization and filtration technology compatible to biodefense applications is of paramount importance. Current ionization methods are energy-intensive, costly, prone to ozone generation, or inefficient, and consequently ill-suited for building protection applications. To overcome these issues, we propose to develop and demonstrate a novel bioaerosol ionization and collection system for autonomous, round-the-clock air filtration and protection. The proposed device harnesses advanced aerodynamics-augmented ionizer design and electrode material optimization to enable significant improvement in throughput, ionization efficiency, ozone generation, and maintenance requirements and operating cost. In Phase I, we will perform a comparative study of the most promising design using high-fidelity simulation tools, followed by prototype fabrication and experimental characterization to demonstrate a laboratory-scale prototype and establish proof-of-principle of the proposed technology. In Phase II, novel designs for electrostatic collection of the charged aerosols will be explored and tested, which will be combined with the finalized ionizer design to form an integrated, automated air filtration system. The integrated systems will be refined for enhanced performance (ionization and removal efficiencies and ozone generation, energy consumption, and operating cost), ease of operation, and manufacturability. It will be extensively tested using composite biological sample matrix at various environmental and loading conditions. The final product will be a fully automated, continuous, safe air ionization and collection system with ready deployability in real environments.