New acoustic technology boosts efficiency of air filters, cuts HVAC energy use

December 30, 2024

We often take the air we breathe for granted. We expect it to be clean, fresh, and pure; however, a lot more goes on than what meets the eye, only we can’t see it. We rely on state-of-the-art technologies to keep us safe and healthy from bacteria, viruses, and inhalable solids, but current solutions are not as efficient as they could be. This new Purdue technology for fiber filters not only solves the issues present in conventional methods, but also significantly reduces energy consumption.

Erinn Frank

Licensing Associate

summary

Traditional fiber filters that capture airborne contaminants require HVAC systems to consume a lot of power. Purdue researchers have improved the effectiveness of fiber filters by developing a system using acoustic waves.

PROBLEM

Small airborne contaminants like bacteria, viruses, and inhalable solids are detrimental to health and quality of life. Traditional fiber filters in an HVAC system capture these particles, but they produce drops in air pressure, requiring greater power consumption.

SOLUTION

Purdue University researchers have developed a system that uses acoustic standing waves to improve the effectiveness of fiber filters for airborne contaminants as much as 1-2 orders of magnitude. The system augments the performance of common, low-pressure filters, reduces HVAC power consumption, and eliminates hazardous byproducts. It is applicable for HVAC systems in industrial and residential buildings.