Silver-nanowire/bamboo-charcoal composite percolation network on nylon sheet for improved PM2.5 capture efficiency

Abstract

Particulate matter (PM) pollution is a significant threat to the environment and public health, necessitating the development of efficient, easy-to-use, versatile protection and treatment devices. Herein, we rationally design a novel reusable composite filter for the high-efficiency capture of indoor fine PM with a particle diameter of <2 µm (PM2.5). The use of such filters is important for ensuring safe indoor environments. This study elucidates the manufacturing of filters based on electrostatic and adsorption principles using a silver-nanowire/bamboo-charcoal composite material to enhance PM elimination. The filter comprised silver nanowires with an 8 mg/mL concentration and bamboo charcoal with a 0.1% w/v concentration, dipped in nylon sheet for nine cycles and annealed at 120 °C for 15 min; the filter exhibited a minimum sheet resistance of 4.1 Ω/sq. Silver-nanowire/bamboo-charcoal composite percolation network filters use strong long-range electrostatic forces and adsorption to capture PM2.5, work in an active mode, and exhibit high efficiency (>99.9%), low power consumption, and reusability after simple washing. The proposed PM filter can be applied in environmental applications.