Multi-functional, self-regenerative, high-efficiency filter for removal of toxic industrial chemicals from air ducts

Currently used air filters in DOD infrastructures are limited in their ability to adsorb Toxic Industrial Chemicals (TICs) and Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). Further, these filters are designed for single use, and need to be replaced frequently, hence increasing the maintenance cost. The proposed program will demonstrate the feasibility of fabricating an air filter with high adsorption capability for TICs and VOCs, with the capability to regenerate itself without having to be removed from the filter assembly. The proposed program builds upon NEIs prior experience in producing sorbents to remove toxic metals from air and water streams, which is combined with our university collaborators expertise in designing air filters with regeneration capabilities. In Phase I, a novel multifunctional and self-regenerative filter will be fabricated and assembled. The filters will be characterized for sorption capacity for TICs such as DMMP, HCN, NH3, and Benzene. Additionally, the regeneration capability of the filters will be determined using an electro-thermal swing method. By the end of the Phase I program, sample quantities of the proposed filter material will also be provided to the Army for evaluation. Several companies in the business of managing air quality have already expressed interest in working with us to help develop the new filter. In Phase II, we will collaborate with engineers at companies that develop and manufacture air filters, as well as the end-users of these air filters (in addition to the Army). This will allow us to develop a practical air filtration system that can satisfy all the functional performance requirements.