The new coronavirus outbreak has brought new emphasis to indoor air quality.
Reducing the concentration of common chemicals in indoor air that pose a risk to human health is one way to improve the health of occupants.
Recently, a study published in Environmental Science and Technology showed that Brown University researchers homemade a box-like device called Corsi-Rosenthal.
This device can effectively reduce indoor air pollutants while adsorbing virus-carrying particles.
These air filters are inexpensive and easy to manufacture, and the materials can be found in hardware stores.
- Four MERV-13 filters.
- Piping tape.
- A 20-inch fan box and a cardboard box.
They cost around $100 on average.
During the experiment, Corsi-Rosenthal boxes were assembled by students and community members and dropped off in buildings across campus.
The results of the one-month test showed significant reductions in the concentrations of several PFAS (perfluorinated or polyfluoroalkyl substances, known as “permanent chemicals”) and phthalates in 17 rooms, by 40-60% and 30%-60%, respectively.
The use of Corsi-Rosenthal boxes causes a small amount of noise problems, perhaps limiting their application scenarios, but the health benefits of the boxes may outweigh the noise side effects.
