SOME STUDIES ON AIR PURIFIER INTEGRATED WITH AIR

CONDITIONER

MINOR PROJECT REPORT

Submitted by

JATAN MUKESH
RISHABH UPADHYAY
GUNAGYA JAIN
AMAN
INDERJIT SINGH NIRMAN

Under the Supervision of

Dr. VAIBHAV JAIN

(Associate Professor)

In Partial Fulfilment of the Requirements

For the Degree of B.TECH

DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL AND AUTOMATION

ENGINEERING
MAHARAJA AGRASEN INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY (MAIT)
DELHI-110086

NOVEMBER 2019
 CERTIFICATE

Certified that Jatan Mukesh(00996403616), Rishabh Upadhyay(35914803616),

Gunagya Jain(35296403616), Aman(41696403616), Inderjit Singh
Nirman(35514803616) have carried out the major project work presented in this report
entitled Some Studies On Air Purifier Integrated With Air Conditioner under my
supervision. The report embodies results of original work and studies as carried out by the
students.

Dr. V.N. Mathur Dr.Vaibhav Jain

HOD, MAE Assistant Professor, MAE

Date: 19.11.2019
 ABSTRACT

Incessantly bad and polluted air level of Delhi NCR in recent years has given rise to many
respiratory and skin problems amongst people. Many schemes are being implemented by
the Delhi Government to tackle the problem of smog and air pollution but the problem still
persists. Companies are launching their purifier to fight this menace. We have designed
the purifier and conditioner working as a single unit. The setup designed had been able to
give purified air and had cost less than traditional air purifier available in markets.
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Project is one of the important aspects for an engineering student career. It is to strengthen
the engineering concepts and to fulfill our contribution towards the society. Firstly, we
convey special thanks to Dr. Vaibhav Jain for proper guidance and help we sought
throughout this undergoing project.
We would like to thank our HOD, Dr. V.N. Mathur for encouraging us to take up this
project and giving us this opportunity. Without them the project would not have been a
success.
 CONTENTS

Page No.
Certificate i
Abstract ii

Acknowledgement iii

Contents iv-v

List of Figures vi

1
CHAPTER 1 LITERATURE SURVEY
1
1.1 Problem Definition
1.2 Effects of poor air quality 2

1.3 Response to air pollution 2

3
CHAPTER 2 AIR QUALITY
2.1 Introduction to air quality 3

2.2 Major air pollutants 5

2.3 Air quality index 6

CHAPTER 3 INDOOR AIR QUALITY STANDARS 9

3.1 Indoor Air Quality Standards 9

3.2 Local thermal comfort 10

3.3 Air Velocity Models 11

3.4 Asymmetric Thermal Radiation 12

3.5 Vertical Temperature Difference 12

3.6 Soil Temperature 12

3.7 General thermal comfort 12

CHAPTER 4 DESIGNED SYSTEM 13

4.1 Air Purifier 13

4.2 U. V. Light 14
 4.3 Activated Carbon 16

4.4 HEPA Filter 25

CHAPTER 5 TESTING METHODS 29

CHAPTER 6 RESULTS 32

CHAPTER 7 CONCLUSIONS AND SCOPE FOR FUTURE 34

REFERENCES 37
 LIST OF FIGURES

Figure No. Description Page No.

Fig 1.1 Pollution masks worn by cops in Delhi 2

Fig 2.1 Air pollution in Delhi 3
Fig 2.2 Ranking of world cities according to air pollution 4
Fig 2.3 Countries ranked with no. of deaths due to pollution 4
Fig 2.4 AQI Category, Pollutants and Health Breakpoints 8
Fig 3.1 Typical single stage VCR 10
Fig 3.2 P-V diagram 10
Fig 3.3 Schematic representation and T-s Diagram 13
Fig 4.1 Wavelength spectrum 15
Fig 4.2 UV effect on DNA 18
Fig 4.3 Air Filter 23
Fig 4.4 HEPA filter 27
Fig 5.1 Anemometer 29
Fig 5.2 Air quality monitor 30
Fig 7.1 New hybrid porous material 36
 CHAPTER 1

LITERATURE SURVEY

Incessantly bad and polluted air level of Delhi NCR in recent years has given rise to many
respiratory and skin problems amongst people. Many schemes like odd-even rationing are
being implemented by the Delhi Government to tackle the problem of smog and air
pollution but the problem still persists. The air quality in Delhi, the capital of India,
according to a WHO survey of 1600 world cities, is the worst of any major city in the
world. Two other cities in India have worse air quality than Delhi: Gwalior in
Madhya Pradesh, and Raipur in Chhattisgarh. Air in India is estimated to kill 1.5
million people every year; it is the fifth largest killer in India. India has the world's highest
death rate from chronic respiratory diseases and asthma, according to the WHO. In Delhi,
poor quality air damages irreversibly the lungs of 2.2 million or 50 percent of all children.
In November 2016, in an event known as the Great smog of Delhi, the air pollution spiked
far beyond acceptable levels. Levels of PM2.5 and PM10 particulate matter hit 999
micrograms per cubic meter, while the safe limits for those pollutants are 60 and 100
respectively.
In November 2017, the PM levels again spiked beyond acceptable levels and hit 800+ per
cubic meter. Delhi High Court has also asked the government to consider the option of
"cloud seeding" to induce rainfall artificially.

1.1 Problem Definition

Motor vehicle emissions are one of the causes of poor air quality. According to some
reports, 60 per cent of PM2.5 air pollution is caused by construction, agricultural burning.
Other causes include traffic, wood-burning fires, fires on agricultural land, exhaust from
diesel generators, dust from construction sites, and burning garbage and illegal industrial
activities in Delhi. The Badarpur Thermal Power Station, a coal-fired power plant built in
1973, is another major source of air pollution in Delhi. Despite producing less than 8% of
the city's electric power, it produces 80 to 90% of the particulate matter pollution from the
electric power sector in Delhi. During the Great smog of Delhi in November 2016, the
Badarpur Power Plant was temporarily shut down to alleviate the acute air pollution.
Although Delhi is kerosene freehand 90% of the households use LPG for cooking, the
remaining 10% uses wood, crop residue, cow dung, and coal for cooking. No Active
Monitoring and Reaction by Authorities and Lack of political priority is also a major
reason.

1.2 Effects of poor air quality

2.2 million Children in Delhi have irreversible lung damage due to the poor quality of the
air. In addition, research shows that pollution can lower children’s intelligence quotient
and increase the risks of autism, epilepsy, diabetes and even adult-onset diseases like
sclerosis. Poor air quality is a cause of reduced lung capacity, headaches, sore throats,
coughs, fatigue, and early death.

1.3 Response to air pollution

To contend with the poor air quality, embassies and international businesses in Delhi are
considering reducing staff tenures, advising staff to reconsider bringing their children to
Delhi, providing high-end air purifiers, and installing expensive air purifiers in their
offices. However, everyone couldn’t afford these expensive purifiers so we are
implementing our idea so that a middle-class man can also have pure air to breathe.
Students of Delhi University initiated a project to combat air pollution by increasing
awareness about causes, effects, ways to protect and tackle air pollution in Delhi, of
groups most exposed and most responsible; in order to decrease pollution and exposure or
impact on those most exposed and vulnerable.

Fig 1.1 Pollution masks worn by cops in Delhi

 CHAPTER 2

AIR QUALITY

2.1 Introduction to Air quality

It is well known that mitigating outdoor air pollution remains a major challenge in most
developing countries. Annually, outdoor air pollution contributed to 3.2 million deaths and
76 million life years lost worldwide in 2010, two-thirds of which occurred in Asian
countries. Most Indian cities face an acute problem of outdoor air pollution, with
concentration levels often exceeding the recommended guidelines set in the National
Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS). Rapid urbanization, boom in construction
activity, increase in number of vehicles, traffic congestion, population growth leave
millions of people in urban areas vulnerable to adverse effects of air pollution. Reducing
air pollution remains a major policy challenge in Indian megacities, like Delhi as shown in
the figure, despite the implementation of several policies such as shifting of public
transport to Compressed Natural Gas(CNG) converting coal power plants to natural gas.
Policy measures to mitigate air pollution in Delhi are important as it is among the largest
megacities of the world with a population of about 16 million people. Whereas this is not
the only megacity in India with high amounts of outdoor air pollution, it is representative
of larger Indian cities and the insights provided hold for other cities in India.

Figure 2.1 Air pollution in Delhi

During the 70’s and 80’s Delhi, the national capital, saw an unprecedented growth in
population, vehicles and small-scale industries, which caused serious ecological imbalance
and environmental degradation. The problem got further aggravated by increasing
migration from neighbouring states. The total area of NCT of Delhi is 1483 sq. Km with
an urban segment of 685.34 sq. Km in the year 1991[10]. Urban population grew at
51.53%from 1991-2001 as compared to 46.89% during1981-1991[10]. This rapid
population growth alongwith the high rate of urbanization as also industrialization and an
increase in motorised transport has resulted in an increase in the levels of various air
pollutants making Delhi one of the most polluted cities in the world as shown by the
figure.

Figure2.2 Ranking of world cities according to air pollution

Figure 2.3 Graph ranking countries according to the no. of deaths due to pollution
2.2 MAJOR POLLUTANTS
The major air pollutants include oxides of sulphur, oxides of nitrogen, suspended
particulate matter, ground level ozone and carbon monoxide. The sources and health effect
of some of the pollutants is mentioned as follows:

1. Oxides of Sulphur: Oxides of Sulphur (SOx) occur in ambient air in the form of Sulphur
Dioxide (SO2) and Sulphur Trioxide(SO3). The major anthropogenic sources of SO2 in
the atmosphere are burning of fossil fuels for industrial and domestic purposes as well as
their use in industrial processes, viz., petroleum, chemical, metallurgical and mineral
based industries. Bacterial decomposition of organic matter, forest fires, etc. also added to
the presence of Sox in ambient air. The harmful health effects of the SO2 include irritation
of eyes and respiratory system, increased mucous production, cough and shortness of
breath.

2. Oxides of Nitrogen: The Oxides of Nitrogen (NOx) are formed during the combustion
processes mainly because of oxidation of atmospheric nitrogen and to a lesser degree by
oxidation of organic nitrogen in fuels. The transport and industrial sectors are the major
sources of NOx which causes irritation of the pulmonary tract and affect the functioning of
lungs. Higher concentrations can even result in the narrowing of the air passage.

3. Suspended Particulate Matter: These are fine particles of soot, dust etc. They are found
in ambient air due to the combined effect of various natural factors. In the case of Delhi,
presence of extensively large arid and semi-arid regions in north-west, loss of moisture
from top soil strata, etc. and anthropogenic factors, i.e., extensive urbanization and
construction activities, increasing vehicular population, captive and domestic power
generation are some of the major contributors to SPM in ambient air. High SPM levels
cause respiratory diseases and reduce visibility. While the human nostrils filter out 99% of
the inhaled large and medium sized particles, the rest may enter the wind pipe and lungs
where some inhaled particles cling to the protective mucous.

4. Respirable Suspended Particulate Matter (RSPM): RSPM are the suspended

 particulates, which are less than 10 micrometres in diameter (PM10) and tend to pose a
great health hazard as these particles can be easily inhaled and can get accumulated in the
alveoli (tiny air sacs in the lungs) which slows down the exchange of Oxygen and Carbon
Dioxide in the blood. The finer the particles, the longer is their propensity to remain air
borne. The diverse sources of RSPM are fuel combustion in industries, power plants,
industrial furnaces and boilers, diesel generating sets, and motor vehicles. The other
sources are refuse and agricultural residue, refuse burning, solid waste disposal,
construction activities, and traffic/road dusts.

5. Ozone: Ozone at the ground level is a secondary pollutant, formed by reaction of Oxides
of Nitrogen and Hydrocarbons in the presence of sunlight. The major harmful effects on
human health include eye, nose & throat irritation and reduced resistance to colds. It can
also aggravate asthma and bronchitis.

6. Carbon Monoxide: Carbon Monoxide is produced as a result of incomplete combustion

of fuel. Vehicles and industries are major sources of CO emissions. Due to its high affinity
for haemoglobin, Carbon Monoxide displaces Oxygen, leading to progressive Oxygen
starvation and severe health effects. In greater concentration, the effect of Carbon
Monoxide could sometimes even be fatal.

7. Lead (Pb): Major sources of lead are metal processing plants, waste incineration,
automobile exhausts, lead-acid batteries and industrial effluents. If inhaled it has serious
effects on central nervous system since it is absorbed rapidly in blood stream. It can cause
anaemia and is toxic for soft tissues and bones

2.3 AIR QUALITY INDEX

An air quality index (AQI) is a number used by government agencies to communicate to
the public how polluted the air currently is or how polluted it is forecast to become. As the
AQI increases, an increasingly large percentage of the population is likely to experience
increasingly severe adverse health effects.

The Central Pollution Control Board along with State Pollution Control Boards has been
operating National Air Monitoring Program (NAMP). There are six AQI categories. The
AQI will considers eight pollutants (PM10, PM2.5, NO2, SO2, CO, O3, NH3, and Pb) for
which short- term National Ambient Air Quality Standards are prescribed. Based on the
measured ambient concentrations, corresponding standards and likely health impact, a
sub-index is calculated for each of these pollutants. The worst sub-index reflects overall
AQI. The AQI values and corresponding ambient concentrations (health breakpoints) as
well as associated likely health impacts for the identified eight pollutants are as follows:

AQI PM10 PM2.5 NO2 O3 CO SO2 NH3 Pb

Category (24hr) (24hr) (24hr) (8hr) (8hr) (24hr) (24hr) (24hr)
(Range)

Good
(0–50) 0–50 0–30 0–40 0–50 0–1.0 0–40 0–200 0–0.5

Satisfactory 0.5–1.0
(51–100) 51–100 31–60 41–80 51–100 1.1–2.0 41–80 201–400

Moderately
polluted 101– 61–90 81–180 101– 2.1–10 81–380 401–800 1.1–2.0
(101–200) 250 168

Poor 2.1–3.0
(201–300) 251– 91–120 181–280 169– 10–17 381–800 801–
350 208 1200

Very poor 3.1–3.5

(301–400) 351– 121– 281–400 209– 17–34 801– 1200–
430 250 748 1600 1800

Severe
(401–500) 430+ 250+ 400+ 748+ 34+ 1600+ 1800+ 3.5+
 AQI Associated Health Impacts
Good (0–50) Minimal impact
Satisfactory (51–100) May cause minor breathing discomfort to sensitive people.
Moderately polluted May cause breathing discomfort to people with lung disease
(101–200) such as asthma, and discomfort to people with heart disease,
children and older adults.
Poor (201–300) May cause breathing discomfort to people on prolonged
exposure, and discomfort to people with heart disease.
Very poor (301–400) May cause respiratory illness to the people on prolonged
exposure. Effect may be more pronounced in people with
lung and heart diseases.
May cause respiratory impact even on healthy people, and
Severe (401–500)
serious health impacts on people with lung/heart disease. The
health impacts may be experienced even during light physical
activity.

Figure 2.4AQI Category, Pollutants and Health Breakpoints

 CHAPTER 3

INDOOR AIR STANDARDS

3.1 Indoor Air Quality Standards

Various international organizations, such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and
the International Council of Building Research, the ASHRAE, some countries, such as
Sweden (the Swedish Council of Building Research), the United States, Canada and
Australia, have developed guidelines and standards of exposure to indoor air pollutants.

The air conditioning system has to ensure that the air contains acceptable low
concentrations of pollutants. Hence, it must be properly designed and maintained to reduce
pollutants to acceptable levels by dilution with clean air or elimination of foreign particles
by filtration.

According to ASHRAE, an acceptable indoor air is one in which there are no known
contaminants in harmful concentrations, as determined by the competent authorities and a
substantial majority (80% or more) of staff are not exposed to dissatisfaction. Obviously,
the definition is vague, not only with regard to acceptable levels, but also to the concept of
dissatisfaction.

There are no standards to regulate the presence of microorganisms in the environment.

The Committee for Bioaerosols of the American Conference of Governmental Industrial
Hygienists (ACGIH) has recently published a guide for the assessment of bioaerosols in
an indoor environment that can be used as a starting point.

For those chemicals that do not have a reference value, it is acceptable that a concentration
of 1/10 TLV does not produce a significant increase in the number of complaints from
members of a group of industrial workers. The threshold limit value (TLV) of a chemical
substance is believed to be a level to which a worker can be exposed day after day for a
working lifetime without adverse effects.
PEL: Permissible Exposure Limit

TLV: Threshold Limit Value

TWA: Time Weighted Average

STEL: Short Term Exposure Limit

3.2 Local thermal comfort

Local thermal comfort as that defined in some particular body zones, due to air velocity,
asymmetric thermal radiation, vertical temperature difference and soil temperature.
3.3 Air Velocity Models
Local thermal comfort as that defined in some particular body zones, due to air velocity,
asymmetric thermal radiation, vertical temperature difference and soil temperature.
Air velocity is related to sensible heat released by convection and latent heat released by
evaporation and, hence, the feeling of thermal comfort is influenced by draft. air velocity
limits: indoor air velocity must never be over 0.9 m/s during the summer season and
below 0.15 m/s during the winter.

3.4 Asymmetric Thermal Radiation

Asymmetric thermal radiation happens when an occupant of an indoor environment is
exposed to a heat source on one side of his body during long periods of time and
experiences a certain degree of dissatisfaction. This happens, for example, in an indoor
ambience with a warm roof and cold windows.

3.5 Vertical Temperature Difference

The vertical temperature difference can be defined as the temperature difference that exists
between the ankle and neck.
3.6 Soil temperature
Soil temperature is related to the difference in temperature between feet and ground
temperature, depending on variables such as conductivity and the heat capacity of ground
materials.

3.7 General thermal comfort

General thermal comfort aims to define the mean parameters that a thermal environment
must depict, so that a maximum number of persons experience a neutral thermal sensation.
 CHAPTER 4
DESIGNED SYSTEM

4.1 Air Purifier

There are two basic types of air filter: Filters for solids and filters for gaseous particles.
Both types have the same objective, to reduce the concentration of airborne particles.
Gaseous particles can be filtered out by means of adsorption. Adsorption is brought about
by London dispersion forces, or Vander Waal’s forces, which act between the molecules.
These forces have similar of properties to the forces of gravity acting between planets in
the solar system. The activated carbon in these filters is capable of removing particles
from the air by means of adsorption. Different types of carbon may be used, depending on
the particular field of application.
There are four ways of capturing particles. The filter class, the particle size and the filter
construction jointly determine the magnitude of the effects.

Air filters may apply:

•the sieve effect

•the inertial mass effect

•the interception effect

•the diffusion effect.

The sieve effect: The sieve effect is one most commonly applied in air filters. The
principle of the sieve effect is very simple: The particle is larger than the gap between the
media fibres and therefore gets trapped.

The inertial mass effect: This filter principle is applied if the particles have substantial
mass. The particle arrives at high velocity. Due to its mass, the particle collides with the
media fibre, instead of being deflected with the airflow.
 The interception effect: The fact that particles exert forces of attraction on one another is
crucial to this filter principle. The larger media fibres attract the relatively small dust
particles. Once the particles have been intercepted they remain stuck between the media
fibres.

The diffusion effect: Particularly small particles often pursue an irregular path. This
phenomenon is referred to as Brownian motion. The path that the particles follow may
digress from that of the airflow. Brownian motion increases the chances of the particle
colliding with the media fibres. The various filter effects can be plotted on a graph, which
clearly indicates the particle size on which each of the filtration principles has the greatest
effect.

4.2 Designed system

The system that we have designed, besides being highly economical, is effective in
removing significant amount of pollutants from the atmosphere. The system does
cleansing at 3 levels while filtering is involved in two of the steps. All the components that
are being used are easily available and easy to replace. Although HEPA filters were
considered but the problems aroused due to the severe pressure drop and hence substantial
increase in power requirements which ultimately made HEPA a bane in our case.

The 3 layers are as follows: -

1. Muslin Cloth

2. Activated charcoal filter

3. UV filtration

The second aspect of our air filter is its compatibility with air conditioners. It has been
designed in such a way that it can been directly fitted at the point of entry of air in the Air
conditioner thus saving space and will act as a purification module for Window air
conditioners.
 The various levels are as follows:

1. MUSLIN CLOTH:

The air passes through a section of muslin cloth. This layer is for removal of larger
particles so that the life of the purifier is increased as the layer after this one last longer
with a rather simple and economical method.

Basically used to remove dust particles and the pore size of muslin clothes is less than
2mm which is just sufficient for removal of dust. It is sort of a pre-filtration process. The
removal of big particles prevents quick clogging of the charcoal filter in the next stage.

2. ULTRAVIOLET FILTRATION
The second stage is the UV filtration stage where the filtered air passes through a chamber
consisting of multiple UV lights that have the tendency to kill microbes and germs thus
making the air not only free from pollutants but also from germs and other biological
detrimental compounds.

3. ACTIVATED CHARCOAL LAYER

The final layer is a thick filter of activated charcoal. Activated charcoal has high surface
area which enables it to absorb high amount of pollutants like chemicals and other
microscopic particles. Since it has high surface area, there is a lot more bonding space.

The better the pores, better the adsorption capacity. Various experiments conducted under
controlled conditions at IIT Madras on a similar prototype reveal promising result. After

burning kerosene for 10 minutes the AQI for a room was at 300 microgram/m3 but the use

of the similar air purifier reduced the count to less than 30 micrograms/m3.

Once the air passes through all the layers of filter, it enters the air conditioning unit and
undergoes the vapour compression refrigeration cycle. The air that comes out is purified

i.e. AQI level are below 50 µg/m3 which is considered as ‘good’ air quality.
4.3 UV Radiation
Ultraviolet light is a type of electromagnetic radiation that makes black-light posters glow
and is responsible for sunburns. However, too much exposure to UV radiation is damaging
to living tissue. People cannot perceive UV directly, since the lens of the human eye
blocks most radiation in the wavelength range of 300–400 nm; shorter wavelengths are
blocked by the cornea

Ultraviolet (UV) light falls in the range of the EM spectrum between visible light and X-

rays. It has frequencies of about 8 × 1014 to 3 × 1016 cycles per second, or hertz (Hz), and
wavelengths of about 380 nanometres to about 10 nm.

There are 3 main types of UV rays:

 UVA, or near UV (315–400 nm)

 UVB, or middle UV (280–315 nm)
 UVC, or far UV (180–280 nm)
UVA:
Most of us are exposed to large amounts of UVA throughout our lifetime. UVA rays
account for up to 95 percent of the UV radiation reaching the Earth’s surface. Although
they are less intense than UVB, UVA rays are 30 to 50 times more prevalent. They are
present with relatively equal intensity during all daylight hours throughout the year and
can penetrate clouds and glass.

UVB:
UVB, the chief cause of skin reddening and sunburn, tends to damage the skin’s more
superficial epidermal layers. It plays a key role in the development of skin cancer and a
contributory role in tanning and photoaging. Its intensity varies by season, location, and
time of day. UVB rays do not significantly penetrate glass.

UVC:
UVC refers to ultraviolet light with wavelengths between 200 – 280 nanometres (nm).
Light in the UVC wavelength can be used for disinfecting water, sterilizing surfaces,
destroying harmful micro-organisms in food products and in air. Unintentional
overexposure to UV-C causes skin redness and eye irritation, but, according to Dr.
Nardell, at The Harvard Medical School, it does not cause skin cancer or cataracts.

UVC radiation, in the range of 250 nm – 280 nm, renders harmful micro-organisms such
as bacteria and viruses ineffective, by destroying the genetic information in the DNA. The
germicidal nature of UV is well suited to treat parasites which are extremely resistant to
chemical disinfectants, such as Cryptosporidium or Giardia.

UV-C rays (photons) penetrate microorganisms and becomes absorbed by the DNA of the
pathogen in the air being treated. In order to kill microorganisms, the UV rays must
actually strike the cell. UV energy penetrates the outer cell membrane, passes through the
cell body and disrupts its DNA preventing reproduction. The DNA is altered in such a way
that the pathogen cannot reproduce and is essentially killed and cannot cause infection. All
the more granularly, the nucleic acid in the cells of an infection ends up noticeably harmed
by the ultraviolet light because of the formation of covalent bonds. When this happens, the
bacteria’s DNA can’t duplicate itself; subsequently, it can’t reproduce and, in this way,
dies. This process of DNA modification is called inactivation.
The excitation of electrons in DNA particles frequently brings about the formation of
additional bonds between adjacent pyrimidine (particularly thymine) in DNA. Whenever
two pyrimidines are bound together along these lines, it is known as a pyrimidine dimer.
These dimers frequently change the state of the DNA in the cell and can lead to problems
during replication. The cell regularly tries to repair pyrimidine dimers before replication.
However, the repair mechanism can prompt mutations too.

UV-C rays will destroy a minimum of 99.99% of harmful microorganisms, including E.

coli, Cryptosporidium and Giardia.

Unlike chemical disinfection the organisms are unable to develop any immune mechanism
against UV light. The degree of UV inactivation of pathogens is directly proportional to
the UV dose applied to the water. In air and surface disinfection applications the UV
effectiveness is estimated by calculating the UV dose which will be delivered to the
microbial population.
The UV dose is calculated as follows:
UV dose µWs/cm² = UV intensity µW/cm² x Exposure time (seconds)
The UV intensity is specified for each lamp at a distance of 1 meter. UV intensity is
inversely proportional to the square of the distance so it decreases at longer distances.
Alternatively, it rapidly increases at distances shorter than 1m. In the above formula the
UV intensity must always be adjusted for distance unless the UV dose is calculated at
exactly 1m from the lamp.

Dosages for a 90% kill of most bacteria and viruses range from 2,000 to 8,000 µW·s/cm 2.

Bacteria 90% 99%

Bacillus anthracis - Anthrax 4,520 8,700

Anthrax spores 24,320 46,200

Bacillus magaterium sp. (spores) 2,730 5,200

Bacillus magaterium sp. (veg.) 1,300 2,500

Bacillus paratyphusus 3,200 6,100

Corynebacterium diphtheriae 3,370 6,510

Ebertelia typhosa 2,140 4,100

Escherichia coli 3,000 6,600

Leptospiracanicola - infectious Jaundice 3,150 6,000

Microccocus sphaeroides 1,000 15,400

Virus 90% 99%

Bacteriopfage - E. Coli 2,600 6,600

Infectious Hepatitis 5,800 8,000

Influenza 3,400 6,600

Poliovirus - Poliomyelitis 3,150 6,600

Yeast 90% 99%

Brewer’s yeast 3,300 6,600

Common yeast cake 6,000 13,200

Saccharomyces spores 8,000 17,600

 Dust and films coating the bulb lower UV output. Therefore, bulbs require periodic
cleaning and replacement to ensure effectiveness. The lifetime of germicidal UV bulbs
varies depending on design. Also, the material that the bulb is made of can absorb some of
the germicidal rays.

"Sterilization" is often misquoted as being achievable. While it is theoretically possible in

a controlled environment, it is very difficult to prove and the term "disinfection" is
generally used by companies offering this service as to avoid legal reprimand. Specialist
companies will often advertise a certain log reduction e.g., 99.9999% effective, instead of
sterilization. The effectiveness of this form of disinfection depends on line-of-sight
exposure of the microorganisms to the UV light. Environments where design creates
obstacles that block the UV light are not as effective. In such an environment, the
effectiveness is then reliant on the placement of the UVGI system so that line of sight is
optimum for disinfection.

Lamp cooling under airflow can also lower UV output; thus, care should be taken to shield
lamps from direct airflow, or to add additional lamps to compensate for the cooling effect.
Hence, our system is designed to be placed at the inlet of the air conditioner so as to
prevent the airflow cooling and there is no need of additional UV lamp.

ADVANTAGES OF UV FILTERATION

 More effective against viruses than chlorine

 Environmentally and user friendly, no dangerous chemicals to handle or store, no risks of

overdosing

 Low initial capital cost as well as reduced operating expenses when compared with similar
technologies such as ozone, chlorine, etc.

 Immediate treatment process, no need for holding tanks, long retention times, etc.

 No chemicals added to the air supply – no by-products, (i.e. chlorine + organic compounds
= trihalomethanes)
 Automatic operation without special attention or measurement, operator friendly

 Simplicity and ease of maintenance, and annual lamp replacement, no moving parts to
wear out.

DISADVANTAGES OF UV FILTERATION

 UV systems are designed to work with a particle filter rather than as a stand-alone item, so
regular filter replacement or cleaning is still required. In addition, the UV bulbs will need
to be replaced every 12 to 24 months, depending on the model.

 UV purification systems also do not directly remove most allergens, dust, and other solids
from the air.

 While they can still purify the air, increasing its cleanliness and quality, they do not
remove cigarette smoke, gases, or other chemical fumes from the air.

 It can sometimes be costly as it is a newer form of air purification.

PROCESS USED IN OUR SYSTEM ULTRAVIOLET GERMICIDAL

IRRADIATION
Ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) is a disinfection method that uses short-
wavelength ultraviolet (UV-C) light to kill or inactivate microorganisms by destroying
nucleic acids and disrupting their DNA, leaving them unable to perform vital cellular
functions. UVGI is used in a variety of applications, such as food, air, and water
purification. UVGI devices can produce strong enough UV-C light in circulating air or
water systems to make them inhospitable environments to microorganisms such as
bacteria, viruses, molds andother pathogens. UVGI can be coupled with a filtration system
to sanitize air.
4.3.2 METHODS OF OPERATION:

 Mercury-based lamps emit UV light at the 253.7 nm line.

 Ultraviolet Light Emitting Diodes (UV-C LED) lamps emit UV light at selectable
wavelengths between 255 and 280 nm.
 Pulsed-xenon lamps emit UV light across the entire UV spectrum with a peak emission
near 230nm.

We are using the mercury-based lamp for our UV filtration as they are the cheapest and
most readily available source of UV radiation. It also performs the required function with
the requisite accuracy and easy to install and replace. The specification of the UV tube are
as follows:

Power rating: 8 Watt Working voltage: 12 V AC

Working of UV lamp
Shortwave UV lamps are made using a lamp tube with no phosphor coating composed of
fused quartz, since ordinary glass absorbs UVC. These lamps emit ultraviolet light with
two peaks in the UVC band at 253.7 nm and 185 nm due to the mercury within the lamp,
as well as some visible light. From 85% to 90% of the UV produced by these lamps is at
253.7 nm, whereas only 5–10% is at 185 nm. The fused quartz glass tube passes the 253
nm radiation but blocks the 185 nm wavelength.

Such tubes have two or three times the UVC power of a regular fluorescent lamp tube.
These low-pressure lamps have a typical efficiency of approximately 30–40%, meaning
that for every 100 watts of electricity consumed by the lamp, they will produce
approximately 30–40 watts of total UV output. These "germicidal" lamps are used
extensively for disinfection of surfaces in laboratories and food-processing industries, and
for disinfecting water supplies.
Carbon filter
Carbon filtering is a method of filtering that uses a bed of activated carbon to remove
contaminants and impurities, using chemical adsorption.

Each particle/granule of carbon provides a large surface area/pore structure, allowing

contaminants the maximum possible exposure to the active sites within the filter media.
One pound (454 g) of activated carbon contains a surface area of approximately 100 acres
(~40 Hectares).

Activated carbon works via a process called adsorption, whereby pollutant molecules in
the fluid to be treated are trapped inside the pore structure of the carbon substrate. Carbon
filtering is commonly used for water purification, air filtering and industrial gas
processing, for example the removal of siloxanes and hydrogen sulfide from biogas. It is
also used in a number of other applications, including respirator masks, the purification of
sugarcane and in the recovery of precious metals, especially gold. It is also used in
cigarette filters.

Active charcoal carbon filters are most effective at removing chlorine, sediment, volatile
organic compounds (VOCs), taste and odor from water. They are not effective at
removing minerals, salts, and dissolved inorganic compounds.

Typical particle sizes that can be removed by carbon filters range from 0.5 to 50
micrometers. The particle size will be used as part of the filter description. The efficacy of
a carbon filter is also based upon the flow rate regulation. When the water is allowed to
flow through the filter at a slower rate, the contaminants are exposed to the filter media for
a longer amount of time
4.4.1 Maintenance of Carbon Filter

Carbon filters—whether dry or wet—aren't long-term, reusable filters. Once all of the
pores in the carbon completely absorb pollutants, you must replace the filter. As a result,
cleaning a carbon filter is inevitable. Cleaning is the main progress of carbon filter
maintenance.

For dry carbon filters, firstly one should remove the carbon filter from its filter housing.
Slide a crevice tool attachment onto the hose of your vacuum and vacuum one side of the
filter to remove dust and dirt using a side-to-side, horizontal motion. Start at the top of the
filter and work your way to the bottom. Repeat on the other side. Vacuum the Cartridge
Filter Housing. If the filter housing has an intake or outgoing air grate, grille or vent, wipe
all surfaces with a damp, lint-free microfiber cloth and dry thoroughly with another cloth.
Return the filter to the filter housing. If a dry carbon filter's housing or cover or grille has
any type of greasy build-up or stains, wash the surfaces with a slightly soapy cloth, rinse
with a damp cloth until you've removed all soap residues, grease, dirt or other debris and
then wipe dry. Try to remember that always replace a carbon filter when it's time to do so
as recommended by the appliance or filter manufacturer. Attempting to re-use the filter
long-term can result in poor air or water quality or damage to the appliance or system that
houses the filter.
4.4 HEPA FILTER

HEPA is an acronym that stands for High Efficiency Particulate Air, so a HEPA filter is a
High Efficiency Particulate Air filter. The Institute of Environmental Sciences and
Technology dictates that a HEPA filter must trap 99.97% of particulates 0.3 microns or
larger. This does not mean that the filter cannot trap particles smaller than 0.3 microns,
because many HEPA filters can; it is simply the threshold that must be reached in order to
carry the HEPA name.
What is a micron?

Particles range from ultra-microscopic to entirely detectable to the human eye. Microns,
which are one-millionth of a meter, are how particles are measured. To give you a better
idea of the size of a micron, or less than a micron, consider that we cannot visually see
anything less than 10 microns. Bacteria can be anywhere from 0.3 to 60 microns, and 1-
inch equals 25,400 microns.
Micron Comparison Chart:

 Spores: 3 – 40 microns

 Mold: 3 – 12 microns

 Bacteria: 0.3 – 60 microns

 Car emissions: 1 – 150 microns

 Pure oxygen: 0.0005 microns

To put it simply, HEPA filters trap air contaminants in a complex web of fibers.
Depending on the size of the particle, this can happen in four different ways: Inertial
Impaction, Diffusion, Interception, or Sieving.
Larger contaminants are trapped via inertial impaction and sieving. The particles either
collide with the fibers and become trapped or are trapped while attempting to travel
through the fibers. Medium sized particles, as they move through the filter, are grabbed by
the fibers via interception. Smaller particles are dissipated as they travel through the filter
and eventually collide with a fiber and are trapped.
HEPA filters are composed of a mat of randomly arranged fibers. The fibers are typically
composed of fiberglass and possess diameters between 0.5 and 2.0 micrometers. Key
factors affecting function are fiber diameter, filter thickness, and face velocity. The air
space between HEPA filter fibers is much greater than 0.3 um. The common assumption
that a HEPA filter acts like a sieve where particles smaller than the largest opening can
pass through is incorrect.

Unlike membrane filters at this pore size, where particles as wide as the largest opening or
distance between fibers cannot pass in between them at all, HEPA filters are designed to
target much smaller pollutants and particles.

HEPA filters are most commonly found in household vacuum cleaners and air filters.
HEPA filters trap small particles that may cause problems for allergy sufferers and others
with health problems. Reducing or eliminating those particles will make cleaner air for the
residents of your home. Consumers can select air filters by looking at their efficiency in
removing airborne particles from the air stream that passes through them. For an air filter
installed in HVAC system ductwork, this efficiency is measured by its Minimum
Efficiency Reporting Value, or "MERV." This measurement technique, developed by the
American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE),
allows the efficiencies of air filters supplied by different vendors to be compared.
True HEPA filters have MERV ratings between 17 and 20; high-efficiency filters have
MERV ratings ranging from 14 to 16; and medium-efficiency filters have MERVs ranging
from 5 to
13. Most residential HVAC systems do not have sufficient fan or motor capacity to
accommodate true HEPA filters. However, according to this EPA Guide to Residential Air
Cleaners, air filters with MERV ratings between 7 and 13 may be nearly as effective as
true HEPA filters in filtering most indoor airborne particles.
4.5.1 Working Principle of HEPA

HEPA filter must capture a minimum of 99.97% of contaminants at 0.3 microns in size.
The 0.3-micron benchmark is used in efficiency ratings, because it approximates the most
difficult particle size for a filter to capture. HEPA filters are even more efficient in
removing particles that are smaller than 0.3 microns and larger than 0.3 microns. The fact
that a HEPA filter's removal efficiency increases as particle size decreases below 0.3
microns is counter intuitive. However, this is a proven and accepted fact in the filtration
sciences.

It can be divided into three stages. In the first stage, inertia works on large, heavy particles
suspended in the flow stream. These particles are heavier than the fluid surrounding them.
As the fluid changes direction to enter the fiber space, the particle continues in a straight
line and collides with the media fibers where it is trapped and held. In the progress of
diffusion, diffusion works on the smallest particles. Small particles are not held in place by
the viscous fluid and diffuse within the flow stream. As the particles traverse the flow
stream, they collide with the fiber and are collected. After diffusion, direct interception
works on particles in the mid-range size that are not quite large enough to have inertia and
not small enough to diffuse within the flow stream. These mid-sized particles follow the
flow stream as it bends through the fiber spaces. Particles are intercepted or captured when
they touch a fiber. Finally, Sieving, the most common mechanism in filtration, occurs
when the particle is too large to fit between the fiber spaces. A HEPA filter would follow
the same filtration principles but would have total filtration efficiency greater than
99.97%. In other words, the worst that a HEPA filter would perform would be to capture
99.97% of particles.

Since most contaminants fall into that category, just imagine how much of an impact these
Washable Panel Filters have on the quality of air you breathe. Stuff like dust, allergens,
pollen, dust mites, pet dander, mildew and mildew spores are eliminated with the use of a
HEPA filter, especially useful for people who suffer with asthma or hay fever.
4.5.1 Working Condition of HEPA Filter

A fan blows air through a high-tech filter, trapping particles as they pass through. Air must
pass through the HEPA air purifier filter in order to be cleaned. Air bypassing the filter
will not be cleaned. This technology is categorized as Passive.
Particles exist in many different types and sizes. The HEPA filter is designed to trap these
particles as they pass into and through the filter medium. The HEPA filter is designed to
maximize air flow and still maximize particle retention. It can attract these airborne
particles like Pet Allergens (.3 to 100 microns), Dust and Dust Mite Allergens (10-40
microns), Pollens (10-100 microns), Plant Spores (10-70 microns), Airborne Fungi Spores
(0.5 to 5 microns), Airborne Mold Spores (2-20 microns), and larger particles of tobacco
smoke (0.003 to 0.04 microns). However, pure HEPA Filters do not remove most odours,
chemicals, or gases as these particles are too small to be trapped by HEPA filters.

Although the filter will become less efficient over time, it is designed to effectively do its
job as it slowly becomes "plugged up". HEPA filters do work effectively for what they are
intended to do. The air must pass through the HEPA air purifier filter in order to be
cleaned. This generally limits the effectiveness of the purifier to the room the unit is
located in. Life expectancy depends on several factors, but generally is from 6 months to 5
years depending on the brand of air purifier. The size, material, and construction of the
HEPA filter will ultimately determine its longevity. Higher quality HEPA filters last
longer, may be larger and thus generally cost more.
 CHAPTER 5

TESTING METHODS

Two major parameters that has to be measured includes Flow rate and Air quality after
and before implementation of air purifier to the air conditioner system, there are wide
varieties of method to measure these parameters. Following is the method used to measure
flow rate and air quality in the experimental setup:

5.1 AIR QUALITY MEASUREMENT

Air quality is the major focus of the setup, air quality has been measured using mini air
quality monitor. The air quality monitor detects level of PM2.5/PM10, and HCHO in the
air. In the setup designed emphasis is more on PM levels than HCHO contribution. The
working of air quality monitor is based on High Accuracy Laser Scattering Detection
Technique and Semi-Conductor Sensing Technology. It is easily calibrated using one key
calibration feature and can be used for both indoor and outdoor air quality measurements.

Fig 5.2 Air Quality Monitor

5.2 High and low volume air samplers

High and low volume air samplers are instruments used to collect samples of air particles.
The difference between high and low volume air samplers is the amount of air sampled.
High volume air samplers typically sample more than 1500 cubic metres(m3) of air over a
24-hour period, while low volume air samplers draw through only 24m3 of air, or less.

5.3 Ambient Air PM 2.5 Samplers

PM10 and PM2.5 Impactors of sampler based on designs standardized by USEPA.

Brushless, Oil-free, light weight pump practically requires no maintenance.
Filter holder designed for any 47 mm diameter filter media. Critical Orifice maintains
constant sampling rate of 1m3/hour.
In-built valve and piping for use of a gaseous sampling attachment for monitoring SO2,
NOx, NH3, Ozone etc.

Digital Micro-controller-based system records flow rate, volume of air sampled, air
temperature and filter temperature in non-volatile flash memory.
5.4 Beta Ateenuation Monitoring (BAM)

Beta attenuation monitoring (BAM) is a widely used air monitoring technique

employing the absorption of beta radiation by solid particles extracted from air flow. This
technique allows for the detection of PM10 and PM2.5, which are monitored by most air
pollution regulatory agencies. The main principle is based on a kind of Bouguer (Lambert–
Beer) law: the amount by which the flow of beta radiation (electrons) is attenuated by
a solid matter is exponentially dependent on its mass and not on any other feature (such
as density, chemical composition or some optical or electrical properties) of this
matter. So, the air is drawn from outside of the detector through an "infinite" (cycling)
ribbon made from some filtering material so that the particles are collected on it. There are
two sources of beta radiation placed one before and one after the region where air flow
passes through the ribbon leaving particles on it; and there are also two detectors on the
opposite side of the ribbon, facing the detectors. The sources' intensity and
detectors' sensitivity being the same (or corrected with appropriate calibration lookup
table), the intensity of beta rays detected by one of detectors is compared to that of the
other. Thus one can deduce how much mass has the ribbon acquired upon being exposed to
air flow; knowing the drain velocity, actual particle mass concentration in air could be
assessed.
 CHAPTER 6

RESULTS

AIR QUALITY WITHOUT FILTER:

PM 10 300
PM 2.5 100
SO2 390
NO2 210
CO 12
NH3 820
Pb 2.2
O3 170

WITH ACTIVATED CHARCOAL FILTER:

PM 10 70
PM 2.5 55
SO2 75
NO2 77
CO 1.7
NH3 355
Pb 0.9
O3 90

33
EFFECTIVENESS

Test Dust Capacity : 11 / 19 / 28g

Final Pressure Drop : 250 / 350 / 450Pa

Average Areestance : 93 / 95 / 97%

Average Effectiveness : 38±2/ 54±1/ 67±1 %

34
 CHAPTER 7

CONCLUSION AND SCOPE FOR FUTURE

CONCLUSIONS

Air pollution in Delhi being a major health risk, it is important to combat that problem in
an economical manner. The air purifier is effective enough to provide good air quality at
an affordable rate. It can work standalone besides being able to work in conjunction with a
Window air conditioner. The flow rate is not affected much by using the air purifier and
air quality is also slightly improved.

Activated Charcoal:

Amount of PM particles removed is not very significant.

Higher effectiveness for PM2.5 might be due to greater deflection of the particle owing to
their smaller inertia, compared to PM10.
Overall it can be concluded that activated charcoal if not a better filter certainly performs
good in heavy particle removal.

SCOPE FOR FUTURE

When mass produced the purifier would cost less than any other purifier available in the
market, it would be most effective during October and November when problem arises
due to smog. Various sensors can be used to switch off the air purifier when not in use or
when optimal air quality of the room has been reached.

Straightforward synthesis of a new porous, low cost hybrid-material, which can act as
adsorbent and filter for organic compounds removal. The hybrid-material is obtained by
combining sodium alginate (a naturally occurring, high abundant and inexpensive
polysaccharide), with amorphous silica fume (a by-product derived from ferrosilicon or
silicon metal alloy processing)

35
In addition, some considerations about economical and environmental advantages are
reported and discussed. In particular, the suitability of the hybrid material as inexpensive,
regenerable alternative to activated carbon. Finally,results about the capability of the
material to capture diesel exhaust particulate matter (PM) are reported, according to the
European Commission guidelines to develop affordable, sustainable, and innovative
design-driven material solution that can reduce the concentration of PM in urban areas

Fig 7.1 New hybrid porous material

36
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