Effect of Racomitrium canescens on particulate matter reduction under flow and humidity condition

This study investigated the effectiveness of Racomitrium canescens in the removal of particulate matter (PM) under controlled flow and humidity conditions. PM pollution is a major environmental and public health concern and exposure to PM is linked to various adverse health effects. Conventional PM removal methods, such as filtration and electrostatic precipitation present challenges, including frequent filter replacement and ozone generation. To address these limitations, eco-friendly alternatives, such as plant-based air purification systems, have garnered increasing attention. In particular, mosses have shown promise in reducing PM concentrations through surface adsorption. In the present study, we evaluated the PM removal efficiency of R. canescens under controlled laboratory conditions. The results demonstrated that R. canescens reduced PM concentrations and its removal efficiency was enhanced under elevated humidity conditions. The ability of moss to capture PM probably is attributed to its unique surface morphology and moisture-retention properties. Rehydration increases the surface area, thereby enhancing the adsorption capacity. These findings suggest that R. canescens has the potential to be a sustainable and effective agent for mitigating air pollution.