Inhaling microscopic air pollutants may be unavoidable, but a new bioinspired air filter from Chung-Ang University researchers could change that. Designed to mimic the sticky efficiency of mucus-coated nasal hairs, the team’s particle-removing oil-coated (PRO) filter dramatically improves air filtration by trapping particles with strong capillary adhesion—rather than the weak forces used in conventional filters.
Borrowing From Biology To Tackle Air Pollution
Standard air filters rely on van der Waals forces—tiny, short-range attractions that often fail to hold onto fine dust and pollen. Inspired by how our nasal hairs use mucus to ensnare particles, the PRO filter uses a thin layer of silicone oil to achieve much stronger grip through capillary forces.
This oil is chemically bonded to specially treated filter fibers using polymer “brushes,” forming a stable coating that doesn’t block airflow. The result: better filtration without the tradeoff of increased resistance.
Stronger, Cleaner, Longer-Lasting Filtration
When tested in both lab and real-world HVAC systems, the PRO filter showed substantial benefits:
- 10–30% increase in filtration efficiency for PM1.0, PM2.5, and PM10 particles
- Stable performance even under strong or reversed airflow
- Washable and reusable with oil reapplication
- Two times longer lifespan than conventional filters
- ~20% reduction in energy consumption in HVAC systems
“Sticky” Innovation That Saves Energy
Because the silicone layer holds onto particles more tightly, the filter resists re-contamination even during airflow surges. “This is the first instance of suppressed dust redispersion and a multidirectional filtration strategy proposing a zero-energy filtration system that uses natural wind,” notes Dr. Sanghyuk Wooh, who led the study.
Unlike filters that clog quickly and need frequent replacement, the PRO filter’s structure prevents pore blockage. It even works without fans—ideal for places like subway tunnels or outdoor smoking areas where passive airflow is all that’s available.
Field-Ready And Environmentally Friendly
In HVAC field tests, PRO filters outperformed standard filters by lasting twice as long and reducing fan energy use by up to 27%. Crucially, they also captured more dust while generating less waste—an eco-friendly upgrade with practical advantages.
Journal: Nature
DOI: 10.1038/s41586-025-09156-y
Published: June 18, 2025
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