Fabrication and evaluation of Respiratory Filter adsorbent media properties using Wood-driven Cellulose Nanofibers

Document Type : Complete scientific research article

Authors

1 Doctoral student of the Department of Wood Technology and Engineering, Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Gorgan, Iran.

2 Associate Professor, Department of Wood Technology and Engineering, Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Gorgan, Iran.

3 Professor, Department of Wood Technology and Engineering, Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Gorgan, Iran.

Abstract

Background and objectives: Fine dust air pollution stands out as a paramount environmental challenge in arid and semi-arid regions globally. The infiltration of these minute particles into the human respiratory system is inherently linked to irreversible health implications, including heart attacks, diminished lung volume, heightened skin disorders, nasal congestion, sore throat, coughing, and an elevated risk of cancer. In response to this concern, diverse types of breathing masks have been developed. However, the dimensions of fine dust particles suspended in the air (less than 2.5 microns) pose a challenge for conventional respiratory filters, as their micrometer pores fail to effectively absorb and hinder these particles from entering the respiratory tract. This study focuses on enhancing respiratory filters through the application of a deep-coating method employing cellulose nanofibers on a cellulosic substrate. The concentrations investigated include 0.05%, 0.1%, 0.2%, and 0.5%. Subsequently, the coated medias dried using the freeze-drying method at temperatures as low as minus 50 degrees Celsius and under 0.04 millibar pressure. These modifications aim to fortify the absorbent layer of the respiratory filter, addressing the limitations posed by normal respiratory filters and offering an innovative approach to mitigating the health risks associated with fine dust inhalation.
Materials and Methods: The materials utilized in this study encompass Wood Cellulose Nanofibers gel (WCNFs) sourced from Nano Novin Polymer Co., Iran. Carboxymethyl Cellulose (CMC) and Citric Acid (CA) were procured from Dr. Mojallali Co., Iran, while the cotton fabric, serving as the substrate, was acquired from Live Co., Iran. The analytical methods employed to evaluate the samples generated in this investigation include Fourier Infrared Spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR), X-ray Diffraction Spectroscopy (XRD), Filter Pressure Drop, Microscope Test utilizing Field Emission Electron (FESEM), and Fine Particle Adsorption Test.
Results: Utilizing the FTIR test, we substantiated the purity of the cellulose substrate employed for coating WCNFs. Additionally, XRD analysis revealed that the cellulose within the substrate exhibited characteristics of beta 1 (ß1) cellulose, as evidenced by distinct peaks at dihedral angles (2θ) of 15.5, 16.5, 22.5, and 34.5. This structural conformation facilitated a robust bonding between cellulose nanofibers and the substrate. Examination through scanning electron microscopy showcased the nanofibers at a nanometer scale (below 100 nm), allowing for the formation of nanometer and submicron pores. In general, an escalation in cellulose nanofiber concentration corresponded to an increase in pressure drop. Notably, the optimal treatment identified in this study involved a 5-layer sample, with 2 layers incorporating 0.5% cellulose nanofibers. This configuration exhibited an absorption efficiency of 96.18% for particles averaging below 2 microns. Remarkably, the adsorption efficiency of fine dust in this adsorbent media aligned with the N95 standard, as per the guidelines of the Food and Drug Administration.

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References

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Journal of Wood and Forest Science and Technology
Volume 31, Issue 1
April 2024
Pages 121-142

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