Biodegradable air filter with electrospun composite nanofibers and cellulose fibers dual network: Enhanced electrostatic adsorption, humidity resistance, and extended service life

Jingyi Nie ¹, Binrong Sun ¹, Tingting Jiao ¹

⁰Shaanxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Papermaking Technology and Specialty Paper Development, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Light Chemistry Engineering Education, College of Bioresources Chemical and Materials Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science & Technology, Xi'an 710021, China.

Journal of Hazardous Materials +

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February 12, 2025

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

This study introduces a novel dual-network cellulose air filter with enhanced electrostatic adsorption and hydrophobicity. The advanced degradable filter achieves over 99% efficiency for fine particulate matter (PM0.3) with low resistance.

Area Of Science

Materials Science
Environmental Science
Nanotechnology

Background

Cellulose-based materials show promise for biodegradable air filters but suffer from poor electrostatic adsorption and hydrophilicity.
Existing filters often struggle with efficiency, pressure drop, and performance in humid conditions.

Purpose Of The Study

To design and fabricate a composite cellulose air filter with improved filtration efficiency, low resistance, and enhanced performance in humid environments.
To develop a sustainable and degradable air filtration solution using a dual-network structure.

Main Methods

Electrospinning of composite cellulose acetate nanofibers onto a cellulose-fiber paper substrate.
Incorporation of electrets (silicon nitride and tourmaline) for enhanced electrostatic adsorption.
Hydrophobic modification to improve charge retention and performance under humidity.

Main Results

The multi-scale spider-web-like structure achieved high filtration efficiency (>99% for PM0.3) with low pressure drop (45.7 Pa).
The filter maintained performance for over 12 hours at 90% relative humidity.
The composite filter is completely degradable within 80 days in a natural environment.

Conclusions

The dual-network composite cellulose air filter effectively addresses limitations of traditional cellulose filters.
This innovative filter offers high efficiency, low resistance, and durable performance, even in humid conditions.
The material's biodegradability presents a sustainable solution for air purification applications.

Keywords:

Air filtration Cellulose Degradability Electret Electrospinning