Final Report
Final Report
on
Air Purifier Using Water as A Filter
Student’s name (Roll no.)
Satish Kumar (2201920400015)
Satyam Kumar (2201920400016)
Shubham Tiwari (2201920400020)
Yash Verma (2301920409005)
Under the Supervision of
Mr Rohit Sahu
(Assistant Professor)
This is to certify that the Project entitled “Air Purifier Using Water as A Filter”
work carried out by him. Satish Kumar, Satyam Kumar, Shubham Tiwari,
Yash Verma have worked under my guidance and supervision and fulfilled the
requirements for the submission of progress report, has reached requisite standards
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Declaration
I hereby declare that this submission is my own work and that, to the best of
my knowledge and belief, it contains no material previously published or
written by another person nor material which to a substantial extent has been
accepted for the award of any other degree or diploma of the university or
other institute of higher learning, except where due acknowledgment has been
made in the text.
Signature:
Name: Satyam Kumar
Signature:
Name: Shubham Tiwari
Signature:
Name: Yash Verma
Signature:
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Acknowledgement
It gives us a great sense of pleasure to present the report of the B. Tech Project
undertaken during B. Tech. 3rd Year. We owe special debt of gratitude to Mr Rohit
Sahu for his constant support and guidance throughout the course of our work. His
sincerity, thoroughness and perseverance have been a constant source of inspiration
for us. It is only his cognizant efforts that our Endeavors have seen light of the day.
We also do not like to miss the opportunity to acknowledge the contribution of all
faculty members of the department for their kind assistance and cooperation during
the development of our project. Last but not the least, we acknowledge our friends
for their contribution in the completion of the project.
Signature:
Name : Satish Kumar Satyam Kumar Shubham Tiwari Yash Verma
Roll No.: 2201920400015 2201920400016 2201920400020 2301920409005
Date :
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ABSTRACT
This project presents the design and development of an innovative air purifier that
utilizes water as a natural filter for purifying indoor air. The device aims to address
the growing concerns about air quality, particularly in urban areas where pollution
levels are high. Traditional air purifiers typically use HEPA filters or activated carbon
to trap particulate matter and pollutants, but these materials can be costly, non-
renewable, and require regular maintenance. In contrast, the proposed air purifier
uses water as a filtration medium, leveraging its high capacity to absorb and
remove particulate matter, dust, allergens, and certain volatile organic compounds
(VOCs) from the air. The system works by drawing air through a water-based
filtration chamber, where particulates are trapped in the water before clean air is
circulated back into the environment. The project involves the integration of a fan
system, water reservoir, and filtration mechanism, along with a simple design that
makes the unit easy to maintain and eco-friendly. Preliminary tests demonstrate its
effectiveness in reducing airborne pollutants while offering a cost-effective and
sustainable alternative to conventional air purification systems. This project offers
a promising solution for improving air quality, particularly in regions with limited
access to advanced filtration technologies.
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Table of Content
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List of Figures
1. Design procedure 15
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List of abbreviations
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Chapter 1 Introduction
Air pollution is a pressing issue affecting major cities and nations worldwide. Urban
areas are particularly burdened, with air contamination caused by emissions from
factories, vehicles, and the reliance on non-renewable energy sources. This
problem is especially severe in densely populated countries like China and India,
where over a billion people live in polluted cities. To tackle poor air quality indoors,
many people rely on air purifiers. These devices, often found in homes and
workplaces, are designed to remove contaminants from the air and improve indoor
air quality. Air purifiers are particularly beneficial for individuals with allergies,
asthma, or sensitivities to second hand smoke. Commercial-grade air purifiers are
available in various sizes, ranging from compact, stand-alone models to larger units
used in medical, industrial, or commercial settings. At home, portable air purifiers
are popular for their convenience. They typically include an internal filter system
and a fan that draws in air, traps unwanted particles, and then recirculates clean
air back into the room. This filtration process operates continuously, ensuring a
noticeable improvement in air quality. During the summer months, pollution, dust,
and allergies become more prevalent, leading to a surge in demand for air purifiers.
These devices are versatile and can be used in homes, offices, and commercial
spaces. High-efficiency models can even be utilized in outdoor settings. By
removing impurities like dust, textile fibres, and other airborne toxins, air purifiers
help create a healthier environment for everyone, particularly those with
respiratory conditions.
In summary, air purifiers are invaluable tools in combating the rising levels of air
pollution. With the growing awareness of their benefits, more people are
incorporating these devices into their daily lives to ensure cleaner, safer air in
their surroundings. Air purifiers are commonly used to improve indoor air quality
in areas with high levels of pollution. These devices are particularly popular among
individuals affected by poor air conditions, who often keep them in their homes
and offices. The primary function of an air purifier is to create airflow by using an
internal fan to draw in air, which then passes through a filter that traps pollutants.
The purified air is released back into the room, creating a cleaner environment.
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Many modern air purifiers use HEPA filters, which are highly effective at capturing
tiny particles. However, these filters require regular replacement and consume
significant amounts of energy, making them a costly solution for some. Price is
often a key consideration for customers when purchasing an air purifier, making
affordability an important factor. Additionally, as air purifiers are often part of a
home's furnishings, their aesthetic design also plays a significant role in consumer
preferences. Air purifiers, sometimes called air cleaners, are designed to remove
contaminants from indoor air, enhancing overall air quality. They are especially
beneficial for individuals with allergies, asthma, or sensitivities to secondhand
smoke. In commercial settings, air purifiers are widely used in medical, industrial,
and business environments. These devices can range from compact stand-alone
units to larger systems integrated into heating, ventilation, and air conditioning
(HVAC) systems or air handler units (AHUs). In industrial applications, air purifiers
serve additional purposes, such as removing carbon dioxide (CO₂) from air before
it undergoes further processing. This makes them a versatile solution for both
residential and commercial needs, addressing various air quality
concerns effectively.
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Chapter 2 Literature Survey
The origins of HEPA filters trace back to a classified project by the US Atomic Energy
Commission during World War II. These filters were initially developed to shield
soldiers from radioactive particles on the battlefield. Scientists working on the
Manhattan Project used early HEPA masks to protect themselves from atomic
bomb contaminants. While these masks couldn't block atomic radiation, the
research laid the groundwork for HEPA filters, which proved effective against
threats like chlorine gas, mustard gas, and flamethrowers. It wasn’t until the 1960s
that the specifications for HEPA filters were standardized, and the term "High
Efficiency Particulate Air" (HEPA) was officially adopted by the Department of
Energy (DOE). According to DOE standards, HEPA filters must remove at least
99.97% of airborne particles, such as dust, pollen, Mold, and bacteria, measuring
0.3 microns at a flow rate of 85 Liters per minute. Initially, these filters were
designed to combat highly hazardous substances, including toxic aerosols,
radioactive particles, and biohazards.
Meanwhile, in Germany, brothers Klaus and Manfred Hammes made strides in air
purification technology. They acquired a patent for a simple air filtration system
that used a fiberglass pad attached with small magnets to the air outlet of
residential oil ovens. This innovative design effectively filtered soot from indoor air.
In 1963, the Hammes brothers' invention became the first air cleaner used in
German homes, marking a significant milestone in residential air purification. That
same year, the United States Congress passed the Clean Air Act of 1963, which
introduced fuel emission standards aimed at reducing air pollution. Though not the
first legislative effort to address air quality, this act brought greater attention to the
dangers of pollutants such as perfumes, chemicals, building materials, pesticides,
and allergens, emphasizing the importance of protecting our lungs from harmful
contaminants. Water filtration technology has been used for decades in both air
purifiers and humidifiers. Unlike traditional air purifiers that use HEPA or activated
carbon filters, water-based air purifiers use water as the primary medium to
capture airborne
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particles such as dust, allergens, smoke, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
Research highlights the following key aspects:
Air purifiers using water filters operate on the principle of water-based filtration
where air passes through water, which captures airborne particles like dust,
pollen, smoke, and allergens. A water filter acts as a natural medium to trap these
contaminants, reducing their circulation within indoor spaces. Research on water
based air purifiers highlights several advantages
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Chapter 3 Design Procedure
Design Procedure
The design and implementation of an air purifier and humidifier using water as a
filter involve a structured approach divided into five key phases: Research and
Planning, Design, Development, Testing and Validation, and Finalization and
Deployment.
1. Research and Planning
• Literature Review: Investigate current air purification and humidification
technologies to identify advantages and limitations of using water as a filter.
• Feasibility Study: Evaluate technical, economic, and environmental viability.
Define project scope, objectives, and constraints.
• Requirement Analysis: Establish functional and non-functional
requirements, detailing performance metrics and user needs.
2. Design
• System Design: Develop detailed CAD models, designing airflow paths and
water filtration systems.
• Component Selection: Select materials and components, ensuring efficiency
and compatibility.
• Prototyping: Construct an initial prototype to validate design concepts and
make necessary adjustments.
• Simulation and Testing: Use simulations to predict system performance and
conduct controlled environment tests.
3. Development
• Detailed Design: Refine the design based on simulation and prototype
testing results.
• Manufacturing: Develop manufacturing processes, source components, and
set up production.
• Integration: Assemble the device, integrating control systems and calibrating
sensors and actuators.
• Initial Testing: Perform preliminary tests to ensure device functionality
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4. Testing and Validation
• Performance Testing: Rigorously evaluate air purification and humidification
efficiency under real-world conditions.
• Safety Testing: Ensure compliance with safety standards and regulations,
implementing necessary safety features.
• User Testing: Gather feedback through user trials to refine usability and
effectiveness.
• Optimization: Enhance design and functionality based on test results and
feedback.
5. Finalization and Deployment
• Final Design: Implement final adjustments and prepare for mass production.
• Documentation: Complete technical documentation, including user
manuals.
• Production: Initiate manufacturing, ensuring quality control.
• Marketing and Distribution: Develop marketing strategies and distribute the
product through appropriate channels.
The core components of an air purifier include the motor, fan, air filter screen, and
other essential systems. The motor and fan work together to circulate air within
the space, drawing in polluted air. This air passes through the filter screen inside
the device, where contaminants are trapped, leaving cleaner air to be released back
into the room. Some air purifiers come equipped with a negative ion generator,
located at the air outlet. When activated, this component produces a direct current
(DC) negative high voltage, which ionizes the air continuously. This process
enhances the purifier’s ability to neutralize airborne particles and improve air
quality effectively. Several structural design considerations must be addressed to
ensure cost-effective and efficient manufacturing. These principles are relevant not
only for joining methods but also for subassemblies and complete structures:
Adaptability to Local Manufacturing: The design should align with the
manufacturing capabilities available locally. Cost-Effective Materials and Methods:
Low-cost materials and economical manufacturing techniques should be
prioritized.
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Affordability for Low-Income Groups: The product must be affordable and
accessible, addressing the basic need for mechanical power in low-income
communities. Ease of Manufacturing and Maintenance: The device should be
straightforward to produce, operate, maintain, and repair, ensuring longevity and
usability. Multi-Purpose Functionality: It should be versatile, capable of powering
various agricultural tools and small machines used in rural industries. Use of Local
Resources: Locally available materials and skills should be utilized to reduce costs
and promote regional engagement. Incorporation of Standard Parts: Standard
components should be used wherever possible to simplify production and repairs.
Structural Flexibility: The design should allow for easy adaptation without requiring
permanent structural modifications. Lightweight and Durable: While excessive
weight should be avoided, durability must remain a top priority to ensure long-
term reliability.
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Here are some images of our project:
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Chapter 4 Product Result and Discussion
Result
While air purification devices do not alter carbon dioxide concentrations, studies on
bacteria and microscopic fungi revealed interesting findings. Regardless of whether
an air purifier was used, the number of microorganisms in classrooms typically
increased after lessons compared to before. The smallest fluctuations in
microorganism levels were observed during specific periods, while the largest
increases were seen in mannitol-negative (M−) Staphylococcus, mesophilic bacteria,
psychrophilic bacteria, and occasionally in microscopic fungi. Opening windows
during lessons and breaks introduced outdoor air, which likely influenced the level
of microbial pollution indoors. Comparisons showed that in some cases, outdoor air
contained higher levels of bacteria and microscopic fungi than the classrooms,
especially in the mornings before lessons began, when windows were usually closed.
After lessons, there was a significant rise in psychrophilic bacteria and microscopic
fungi in the classrooms. Outdoor air quality, regardless of the time or conditions
(morning, after lessons, before or after installing air purifiers), exhibited significant
fluctuations in microorganism levels. The study's average values for specific bacteria
and fungi indicated that the primary source of microbial pollution indoors was the
people occupying the rooms, including students and teachers. The inflow of external
air when windows were opened only periodically influenced indoor air quality.
Classrooms showed better microbiological air quality in the mornings before
lessons, largely due to cleaning activities conducted the previous afternoon.
Cleaning involved dry sweeping, wet mopping, and wiping down benches and
furniture. Chairs were placed upside down on the benches to ensure thorough floor
cleaning, which removed particulate matter and microorganisms. The cleaned and
sealed classrooms remained unoccupied for 17 to 18 hours overnight, allowing them
to be prepared for lessons the next day. Comparing the periods before and after
installing air purifiers, there was no consistent reduction in bacterial or fungal
counts, indicating that the devices did not significantly improve microbiological air
quality in the classrooms. Further analysis of the microorganisms identified them as
part of the natural saprophytic microflora of the air environment. The mesophilic
and psychrophilic bacteria found included species common to natural air
ecosystems. According to Polish standards for microbial air quality, air is considered
clean if the total number of mesophilic bacteria in 1 m³ of air is below 1,000 CFU
(colony-forming units), with mannitol-positive and mannitol-negative bacteria
absent, and Actinobacteria counts under 10 CFU. When mesophilic bacteria levels
range from 1,000 to 3,000 CFU, the air is classified as moderately polluted. Higher
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levels indicate strong pollution. For microscopic fungi, air is considered moderately
clean during late spring and early autumn when fungi counts remain within
acceptable thresholds.
Discussion
Poor indoor air quality remains a significant issue in schools, primarily due to the
high number of students in classrooms and inadequate air exchange systems. And
alum reported similar concerns, noting an increase in bacterial counts after classes
and identifying factors like temperature, humidity, and dust concentrations as
contributors to bacterial contamination. Other researchers have highlighted the
role of school location and the detrimental effects of air pollution on children's
respiratory health and neurodevelopment. Our study, conducted at a school
situated directly next to a street during late spring, did not reveal a strong
correlation between external air quality and classroom contamination during
ventilation. In fact, most physical and microbiological parameters in the outdoor
environment were found to be lower than those inside the building, particularly
during class hours. The microorganisms detected in our study predominantly
belonged to natural saprophytic microflora typically found in the air.
Key Findings:
Ventilation Practices: Despite guidelines, classroom windows were frequently left
open throughout the day, often along with the doors, leading to increased air
exchange. This is common in educational facilities with limited natural ventilation
systems.
Carbon Dioxide Levels: Opening windows significantly reduced CO₂ levels, often
aligning them with outdoor air concentrations (approximately 350 ppm). However,
there were instances where CO₂ levels exceeded 2800 ppm in room 04 (and 2500
ppm in room 105), placing these rooms in the poorest air quality category
(Category).
Post-Lesson Air Quality: CO₂ levels in classrooms without occupants eventually
equilibrated with outdoor air two hours after lessons ended and after cleaning was
completed.
Overheating Concerns: Temperature readings over a 24-hour period revealed that
classrooms tended to overheat.
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Microbiological Contamination: Classroom air showed higher pollution levels in
terms of specific microorganisms, including mesophilic bacteria and staphylococci.
These originate from human activity in the room and pose health risks to students.
Presence of Pathogens: Microorganism analysis identified opportunistic,
allergenic, and potentially pathogenic bacteria in the air.
Particulate Matter: Classrooms were categorized in the lowest air quality class due
to particulate matter concentrations.
Air Purifier Ineffectiveness: No noticeable improvement in air quality was
observed when air purifiers were in operation.
Limitations and Recommendations:
The inefficacy of air purifiers in this setting could stem from improper use. The
devices had an air exchange rate of 0.5 to 1 air changes per hour (ACH), which might
be insufficient for densely populated rooms with significant pollution. To improve
indoor air quality (IAQ) in such environments, devices must be calibrated to meet
the specific size and requirements of the space. Air purifiers alone were unable to
effectively clean the polluted outdoor air entering classrooms, suggesting a need
for alternative or supplemental solutions. One promising approach is the use of
forced air supply systems with pre-filtration, which would treat the air before it
enters the room. Air purifiers could then function as a secondary filtration
mechanism, enhancing the efficiency of these forced ventilation systems.
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Chapter 5 Conclusions and Further Work
Conclusions
The result of this project is a next-generation air purifier featuring an innovative
filter design. This breakthrough allows the device to have a more compact housing
compared to competitors, without compromising on performance. Its smaller size
means it takes up less space, making it more convenient for users to move around
their homes. Additionally, the device includes a handle for easy portability.
The 360º Air is designed to blend seamlessly into any living space, thanks to its
uniform round shape, which allows greater flexibility in placement. Unlike many
competitors’ products, this design doesn’t limit its positioning in a home. Another
significant advantage is the filter itself, which is washable and does not require
replacement. This not only reduces long-term costs for users but also offers a low-
pressure drop, resulting in quieter operation and lower energy consumption. These
unique features make the 360º Air a standout product in the market. Its innovative
design and user-friendly features not only appeal to consumers but also make it
easier for sellers to promote, generating potential revenue for the brand. The air
purifier effectively addresses the widespread issue of poor indoor air quality, which
is especially prevalent in densely populated urban areas.
Affordability is a key consideration for many people, and traditional air purifiers can
be expensive due to the recurring cost of filter replacements. The 360º Air offers a
more socially sustainable alternative, as its washable filter and energy-efficient
operation make it more economical in the long run. This affordability opens the
door for more people to invest in a product that could be crucial for their health.
Even though the brand, manufacturers, and sellers may not benefit from frequent
filter replacement sales, the 360º Air remains financially sustainable. Its innovative
filter technology and associated benefits are likely to attract a larger customer
base. Furthermore, the purifier’s design requires fewer materials than competing
models, which can reduce manufacturing costs.
From an environmental standpoint, the 360º Air is also a more sustainable choice.
Its reduced material usage, combined with its energy efficiency, makes it a greener
option compared to many existing products on the market. In summary, this
project has introduced a next-generation air purifier that combines innovation,
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functionality, and sustainability. Its compact design, washable filter, and energy
efficiency position it as a leading solution to the problem of poor indoor air quality,
offering long-term value for users while maintaining economic and
environmental sustainability.
Further work
The rise in outdoor pollution across Indian cities is largely driven by the growing
number of vehicles on the road, rapid construction activities, and industrial
expansion. With a booming economy and a population of over 1.25 billion people
to sustain, more trees are being cut down, and land is being cleared for
infrastructure development. While these activities fuel progress, they also bring
severe consequences for the environment. The impacts are becoming increasingly
evident, affecting everything from groundwater to crops and the air we breathe. If
left unchecked, future generations will bear the brunt of our careless actions. It is
essential to raise awareness and take action to mitigate these effects and ease the
strain on our planet. While many of us are conscious of the food and water we
consume, the air we breathe is often overlooked. Unfortunately, the rising cases of
respiratory issues, especially among children, highlight the dangerous effects of
pollutants on our health. Frequent visits to the doctor and increased reliance on
medications are clear indicators of the damage being caused. Air pollution
contributes to various health issues, including wheezing, coughing, sneezing,
asthma, heart attacks, and even lung cancer. Addressing air pollution requires more
than just filtering indoor air—it demands efforts to prevent pollutants from
entering the atmosphere and to maintain a clean, healthy environment. In today’s
world, air purifiers are as vital as water purifiers for ensuring our well-being.
Research by the British Allergy Foundation and other organizations has
demonstrated that using air purifiers, such as those equipped with Sharp’s
advanced technology, significantly reduces the amount of toxins entering our
bodies. This, in turn, lessens the need for medication and helps avoid missed days
at work or school. However, many air purifier brands have focused solely on
removing dust and particles, neglecting the broader benefits consumers truly need
and expect.
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Currently, most air purifiers rely on HEPA and carbon filters, which address certain
pollutants but offer only a partial solution. As awareness grows, the demand for
advanced technologies, such as Plasma cluster Ion Technology, is expected to
increase. These innovations provide a more comprehensive solution to air
pollution, going beyond the limitations of traditional filtration systems.
Another area of concern is the confusion surrounding air purifier performance
indicators. Many devices include built-in air quality monitors, but these often
provide inconsistent readings, focusing primarily on PM2.5 levels. While PM2.5 is a
significant pollutant, it represents only 25% of indoor air pollution. Such narrow
metrics give users a false sense of security, failing to address the full spectrum of
indoor air contaminants. Looking ahead, the adoption of higher-performing air
purifiers with advanced technology will set new standards in tackling air pollution.
Clearer messaging and holistic solutions are needed to meet the growing
expectations of consumers and to ensure cleaner, healthier air for everyone.
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Chapter 6 Contribution to the society/Environment effect
Environment effect
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This sustainable approach minimizes waste and promotes a circular
economy, where resources are used more efficiently and responsibly.
• Chemical-Free Filtration: Unlike some air purifiers that rely on chemical
treatments to clean the air, this system uses natural water filtration. This
reduces the chemical footprint and potential environmental hazards
associated with chemical disposal and production.
• Energy Efficiency: The device is designed to be energy-efficient, consuming
less power compared to traditional air purifiers and humidifiers. Lower
energy consumption not only reduces operational costs but also decreases
the overall carbon footprint, contributing to efforts against climate change.
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Chapter 7 References
1. V.K. Vijayan, H. Paramesh, S.S. Salvi, A.A.K. Dalal, “Improving Indoor Air
Quality: The Benefits of Air Filters,” Lung India, Vol. 32, October 2015.
2. Sharma, Manisha, Ajay Kumar, and Abhishek Bachhar. "I2P Air Purifier with
Integrated Air Quality Monitoring System," 2017 2nd International
Conference on Communication and Electronics Systems (ICCES), IEEE, 2017.
3. Z. Deng, Z. Zhang, “Evaluation of Indoor Air Purifiers: Performance and
Structural Analysis,” Chemical Engineering Transactions, Vol. 71, 2018.
4. L. Jia-ying, C. Zhao, G. Jia-Jun, F. Zi-Jun, L. Xiao, S. Bao-quig, “Effectiveness of
Air Purifier Treatment in Managing Allergic Rhinitis,” Asian Pacific Journal of
Allergy and Immunology, Vol. 36, December 2018.
5. A. Pacitto, F. Amato, T. Moreno, M. Pandolfi, A. Fonseca, M. Mazaheri, L.
Stabile, G. Buonnanno, X. Querol, “Impact of Ventilation Strategies and Air
Purifiers on Children’s Exposure to Airborne Particles and Pollutants in
School Gyms,” Science of the Total Environment, Vol. 712, April 2020.
6. E.E. Reisman, P.M. Mauriello, G.B. Davis, J.W. Georgitis, J.M. DeMasi,
“Double-Blind Study on the Effectiveness of High-Efficiency Particulate Air
(HEPA) Filters for Patients with Perennial Allergic Rhinitis and Asthma,”
Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Vol. 85, June 1990.
7. Y. Wang, H. Wang, C. Zhao, Y. Zhang, “Advances in Air Purifier Technology
and Material Research,” Advanced Materials Research, Vol. 1092-1093, pp.
1025-1028, 2015.
8. A. Smythe, “Effectiveness of Air Purifiers in Improving Air Quality in
Classrooms: A Case Study of Three Urban Schools in the Northeastern United
States,” Harvard University, 2018.
9. Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences, “Impact of Dust Exposure on
Respiratory Health and Pulmonary Functions of Street Sweepers,” Zahedan
University of Medical Sciences, 2018.
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