By Natalie Akane Newcomb
Scientists from Washington State University have found a way to create more sustainable and efficient air filters. It turns out corn was the key.
Most air filters on the market are made out of petroleum and glass. Those materials can lead to secondary pollution when the filters are thrown away.
WSU's new filter uses corn-based proteins. It’s special because it catches both particles like soot, and toxic chemicals like carbon monoxide at the same time. Current filters are more likely to address particulates in the air. They aren't as efficient when it comes to capturing chemicals in gas form. WSU's corn-based filters capture 99.5% of particulates, and 87% of formaldehyde in the air.
This adds up to a more environmentally friendly air filter.
“Particulate matter is not that challenging to filter, but to simultaneously capture various kinds of chemical gas molecules, that’s more significant,” said WSU researcher Katie Zhong in a statement.
Click here to see more...