A system for automated methane filtration and purification

Abstract

A system for automated methane filtration and purification, consisting of: a large number of methane sensors prior to treatment, configured to continuously monitor the methane concentration in the environment and generate signals when the methane level exceeds a predetermined threshold; a microcontroller configured to receive signals from the methane sensors prior to treatment and to control the operation of the system components; a gas chamber configured to receive incoming air and distribute it to downstream filter components; a primary suction pump configured to draw ambient air into the gas chamber when a high methane concentration is detected; a biochar compartment configured to draw air from the gas chamber and remove particles, microorganisms and volatile organic compounds by adsorption; an enzyme-water compartment configured to absorb air from the biochar compartment and biologically degrade methane molecules by means of enzymatic treatment; a secondary suction pump configured to maintain a continuous airflow through the biochar compartment and the enzyme water compartment; a relay module configured to receive control signals from the microcontroller and activate the primary suction pump and the secondary suction pump; a large number of methane sensors after treatment, configured to monitor the methane concentration in the air exiting the enzyme-water compartment; and an exhaust valve configured to release purified air when the aftertreatment methane sensor indicates a methane concentration below a safety threshold, with the system returning the air to the gas chamber by keeping the exhaust valve closed when the aftertreatment methane sensor indicates a methane concentration above the safety threshold.

Description

AREA OF INVENTION

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a system for automated methane filtration and purification. More specifically, the present invention relates to an enzyme-controlled methane air purification system (EDMAP). The system consists mainly of an Arduino-based control unit, relay modules, suction pumps, and gas sensors, and is configured to detect and remove methane gas from the atmosphere in real time. This reduces the health and environmental hazards associated with methane emissions. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Methane (CH4) is a potent greenhouse gas with a significantly higher global warming potential than carbon dioxide and poses considerable environmental and health risks. Current methane emissions originate from various sources, including landfills, agricultural operations, fossil fuel production, and industrial processes. High methane concentrations can cause serious health effects such as dizziness, suffocation, and oxygen deprivation, and may potentially lead to unconsciousness or death.

[0003] Existing methane management technologies face several limitations. Conventional biogas upgrading systems, such as pressure swing adsorption and amine scrubbing, are primarily designed for large-scale industrial applications and lack adaptive, real-time control. Current monitoring systems often rely on manual intervention and are unsuitable for autonomous operation in remote or hazardous environments. Furthermore, conventional methane reduction approaches typically focus on single-stage treatment without integrated feedback mechanisms to ensure complete purification.

[0004] Various technologies for methane conversion and capture have been investigated in the prior art, including biochar-enriched floor coverings, metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), and biological methane oxidation systems. However, these approaches typically function as standalone solutions without integrated sensor feedback and automated control systems. There remains a need for a comprehensive, cost-effective, and automated system capable of real-time methane monitoring, multi-stage purification processes, and autonomous operation with minimal human intervention.

[0005] Several state-of-the-art systems have several shortcomings, such as: (1) lack of real-time sensor feedback for adaptive control; (2) lack of an integrated multi-stage treatment combining physical and biological purification methods; (3) limited scalability for use in different environments; (4) need for continuous human monitoring and intervention; and (5) inability to ensure complete methane removal through closed-loop systems.

[0006] Therefore, there is a need for an automated methane filtration and purification system that overcomes these limitations by providing sensor-controlled operation, multi-stage treatment processes, and autonomous operating functions suitable for various environmental applications. Summary of the invention

[0007] The present disclosure relates to a system for automated methane filtration and purification. Specifically, the present invention provides an automated methane filtration and purification system that integrates real-time sensor monitoring, microcontroller-based control, and multi-stage treatment processes to detect, capture, and purify methane-contaminated air. The system utilizes a closed-loop control system with methane sensors for pre- and post-treatment, dual suction pumps, biochar filtration, and enzymatic treatment chambers to achieve comprehensive methane remediation with minimal human intervention.

[0008] One objective of the present disclosure is to provide a system for automated methane filtration and purification. The system comprises: several methane pretreatment sensors that continuously monitor the ambient methane concentration and generate signals when the methane level exceeds a predetermined threshold; a microcontroller that receives signals from the pretreatment methane sensors and controls the operation of the system components; a primary suction pump that draws ambient air into the gas chamber upon detection of a high methane concentration; a gas chamber that receives incoming air and distributes it to downstream filter components; a biochar compartment that draws air from the gas chamber and removes particles, microorganisms, and volatile organic compounds by adsorption; and an enzyme-water compartment that draws air from the biochar compartment and biologically degrades methane molecules by means of enzymatic treatment.a secondary suction pump that maintains a continuous airflow through the biochar compartment and the enzyme water compartment; a relay module that receives control signals from the microcontroller and activates the primary and secondary suction pumps; multiple post-treatment methane sensors that monitor the methane concentration in the air exiting the enzyme water compartment; and an exhaust valve configured to release purified air when the post-treatment methane sensor indicates a methane concentration below a safety threshold, with the system returning the air to the gas chamber by keeping the exhaust valve closed when the post-treatment methane sensor indicates a methane concentration above the safety threshold.

[0009] Another objective of the present disclosure is to provide a system for automated methane filtration and purification.

[0010] Another objective of the present disclosure is to provide an autonomous methane detection and purification system that operates continuously without human intervention and uses sensor-controlled feedback to automatically initiate purification cycles when the methane concentration exceeds predetermined safety thresholds.

[0011] Another objective of the present disclosure is the implementation of a multi-stage treatment approach that combines the adsorption of biochar for the removal of particles and microbes with enzymatic biological degradation using methane monooxygenase to convert methane into less harmful by-products and thus ensure comprehensive air purification.

[0012] Another objective of the present disclosure is to establish a closed recirculation system that prevents the release of incompletely treated air by continuously monitoring methane levels after treatment and redirecting contaminated air back through the purification process until safety standards are met.

[0013] Another objective of the present disclosure is to provide a scalable, cost-effective and environmentally sustainable solution for reducing methane emissions in various application areas, including landfills, livestock facilities and industrial plants, thereby contributing to the mitigation of climate change and the protection of public health.

[0014] To further clarify the advantages and features of the present disclosure, the invention is explained in more detail with reference to specific embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings. These drawings merely show typical embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be understood as limiting its scope. The invention is described and explained more precisely and in greater detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0015] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present disclosure will be better understood if the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which identical symbols consistently represent identical parts. The following applies: Fig. Figure 1 shows a block diagram of a system for automated methane filtration and purification according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 2 shows a diagram illustrating the structure of the proposed system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] Experts will also recognize that the elements in the drawings are presented for the sake of simplicity and are not necessarily to scale. For example, the flowcharts illustrate the process by highlighting the main steps to enhance understanding of the aspects of this disclosure. Furthermore, with regard to the design of the device, one or more components of the device may be represented in the drawings by conventional symbols, and the drawings may show only the specific details relevant to understanding the embodiments of this disclosure, so as not to clutter the drawings with details that are readily apparent to those skilled in the art after reading this description. DETAILED DESCRIPTION:

[0017] For a better understanding of the inventive principles, reference is made below to the embodiment shown in the drawings, which is described in specific language. However, this does not limit the scope of the invention. Changes and further modifications of the illustrated system, as well as further applications of the inventive principles, are possible, as would normally occur to a person skilled in the art in this field.

[0018] It is clear to the person skilled in the art that the preceding general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory of the invention and are not intended as a limitation of it.

[0019] References in this specification to “an aspect”, “another aspect”, or similar expressions mean that a particular feature, structure, or property described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Therefore, occurrences of the expressions “in one embodiment”, “in another embodiment”, and similar expressions in this specification may all refer to the same embodiment, but need not.

[0020] The terms "includes," "include," or other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process or method that includes a list of steps may not only contain those steps but may also include other steps not expressly listed or inherent in such process or method. Likewise, the statement "includes..." in the case of one or more devices, subsystems, elements, structures, or components does not, without further limitations, preclude the existence of other devices, subsystems, elements, structures, components, or additional devices, subsystems, elements, structures, or components.

[0021] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as understood by a person skilled in the art in the field of the invention. The system, methods, and examples provided here serve only for illustration and are not to be construed as a limitation.

[0022] Embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0023] Fig. Figure 1 shows a block diagram of a system for automated methane filtration and purification according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] Referring to Fig. 1 The system (100) for automated methane filtration and purification comprises: a plurality of methane pretreatment sensors (102) configured to continuously monitor the ambient methane concentration and generate signals when the methane content exceeds a predetermined threshold; a microcontroller (104) configured to receive signals from the methane pretreatment sensors (102) and control the operation of the system components; a gas chamber (106) configured to draw incoming air and distribute it to downstream filtration components; a primary suction pump (108) configured to draw ambient air into the gas chamber (106) upon detection of a high methane concentration; a biochar compartment (110) configured to draw air from the gas chamber (106) and remove particles, microorganisms, and volatile organic compounds by adsorption;an enzyme-water compartment (112) configured to draw air from the biochar compartment (110) and biologically degrade methane molecules by means of enzymatic treatment; a secondary suction pump (114) configured to maintain a continuous airflow through the biochar compartment (110) and the enzyme-water compartment (112); a relay module (116) configured to receive control signals from the microcontroller (104) and activate the primary suction pump (108) and the secondary suction pump (114); several post-treatment methane sensors (118) configured to monitor the methane concentration in the air exiting the enzyme-water compartment (112);and an outlet valve (120) configured to release purified air when the aftertreatment methane sensor indicates a methane concentration below a safety threshold, wherein the system (100) returns the air to the gas chamber (106) by keeping the outlet valve (120) closed when the aftertreatment methane sensor (118) indicates a methane concentration above the safety threshold.

[0025] In one embodiment, the plurality of methane sensors before treatment (102) comprises an MQ-135 gas sensor configured to detect methane, ammonia, benzene, alcohol and smoke, and the plurality of methane sensors after treatment (118) comprises an MQ-4 gas sensor specifically configured to detect the methane concentration.

[0026] In one embodiment, the microcontroller (104) comprises an Arduino Uno board configured to continuously read analog signals from the methane sensors before treatment (102) and the methane sensors after treatment (118), process sensor data according to pre-programmed thresholds, generate control signals for the relay module (116) based on processed sensor data, and implement feedback logic when the methane levels after treatment exceed the safety limits.

[0027] In one embodiment, the biochar compartment (110) comprises: a cylindrical or layered matrix containing activated biochar, wherein the activated biochar is a porous, carbon-rich material produced by pyrolysis of organic biomass, and wherein the activated biochar is configured to adsorb particles such as PM 2.5 and PM 10, neutralize airborne microorganisms, and adsorb volatile organic compounds and traces of methane.

[0028] In one embodiment, the enzyme-water compartment (112) comprises: silica gel beads loaded with the enzyme methane monooxygenase (MMO); an aqueous enzyme solution; and enzymatically coated beads or a mesh immersed in water, wherein the enzyme methane monooxygenase is configured to convert methane to methanol, and wherein the enzymatically coated beads or mesh are configured to convert methanol to carbon dioxide and water.

[0029] In one embodiment, the relay module (116) comprises an electromechanical switch configured to isolate low-voltage control signals from high-power pump circuits, wherein the relay module (116) is configured to provide electrical safety by preventing voltage spikes from affecting the microcontroller (104); and the relay module (116) is further configured to control the activation and deactivation of auxiliary devices, including solenoid valves used to open the outlet valve.

[0030] In one embodiment, the system (100) is also configured to: maintain a controlled negative pressure gradient between the primary suction pump (108) and the secondary suction pump (114); ensure a laminar airflow through the biochar compartment (110) and the enzyme water compartment (112); and dynamically adjust the pump speed based on airflow rate and pressure measurements.

[0031] In one embodiment, the system (100) further comprises one or more pressure sensors (122) configured to monitor the airflow rate and pressure in the gas chamber (106) and in the post-filtration areas, wherein the microcontroller (104) is configured to receive pressure measurements and dynamically adjust the operation of the primary suction pump (108) and the secondary suction pump (114) to optimize throughput while maintaining cleaning quality.

[0032] In one embodiment, the system (100) is also configured to: manage a circulation counter to track the number of processing cycles for the recirculated air; implement a timing mechanism (124) to monitor the residence time of the air in the biochar compartment (110) and in the enzyme water compartment (112); and generate maintenance signals when the cleaning efficiency falls below predetermined standards after several circulation cycles.

[0033] In one embodiment, the system (100) is configured for operation under various environmental conditions, including: urban industrial sites with elevated methane emissions, livestock farms with high methane concentrations in the surrounding area, and landfills with varying methane levels. The system (100) automatically adjusts the cleaning cycles based on the methane concentrations detected for each specific environmental condition.

[0034] The present invention relates to an automated methane filtration and purification system which, through intelligent sensor integration and multi-stage treatment processes, offers a comprehensive approach to combating methane pollution.

[0035] Fig. Figure 2 shows a diagram illustrating the structure of the proposed system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] Fig. Figure 2 shows the microcontroller-based control unit (Arduino), which serves as the central processing unit for all system operations. This microcontroller continuously receives input signals from strategically positioned methane sensors and processes this data to make autonomous decisions regarding system activation and operating parameters.

[0037] The detection system utilizes two methane sensors at critical points in the air treatment process. Several pretreatment sensors, including an MQ-135 gas sensor, continuously monitor the methane concentration at the system inlet and serve as the primary trigger for system activation. If the methane content exceeds preset thresholds in the microcontroller, the system automatically initiates the purification cycle. In addition to this primary detection mechanism, several posttreatment sensors, including an MQ-4 methane sensor, monitor the quality of the treated air before release and ensure that only sufficiently purified air exits the system.

[0038] The airflow and pressure management subsystem comprises two coordinated suction pumps to maintain optimal airflow throughout the treatment process. The primary suction pump at the system inlet generates the initial negative pressure differential required to draw contaminated air into the gas chamber. This chamber acts as both an air distributor and a buffer zone, protecting pressure fluctuations from affecting subsequent treatment processes. The secondary suction pump, positioned after the treatment chambers, ensures a continuous airflow through the high-resistance biochar and enzyme treatment stages, guaranteeing sufficient residence time for effective purification.

[0039] The first stage of the treatment process takes place in the biochar tank, which contains activated biochar produced by the pyrolysis of organic biomass materials. This porous, carbon-rich medium provides several purification mechanisms, including the physical adsorption of particles, the neutralization of airborne microorganisms, and preliminary methane removal through surface adsorption. The biochar stage serves as a pre-conditioning step, removing contaminants and impurities that could potentially interfere with subsequent enzymatic processes. This extends the lifespan of the enzymes and improves the overall efficiency of the system.

[0040] The central purification process takes place in the enzyme-water chamber, where biological methane degradation occurs through carefully engineered enzymatic reactions. This chamber contains silica gel beads loaded with methane monooxygenase enzymes, which catalyze the conversion of methane molecules to methanol as an intermediate product. Additional enzyme systems within the chamber further process the methanol into carbon dioxide and water, thereby completely mineralizing the original methane contaminant. The aqueous environment in this chamber provides optimal conditions for enzymatic activity and facilitates mass transfer between the gas and liquid phases.

[0041] The system features sophisticated feedback mechanisms through its post-treatment monitoring and recirculation functions. Air exiting the enzyme chamber passes through post-treatment sensors, where the methane concentration is continuously measured against safety limits. If the treated air meets the purification standards, the microcontroller activates magnetically controlled exhaust valves to release the clean air into the environment. However, if the methane content exceeds the permissible limits after treatment, the system automatically switches to recirculation mode and returns the incompletely treated air to the gas chamber for further processing cycles.

[0042] Safety and reliability features are integrated into the overall system design to ensure consistent performance and prevent the unintentional release of contaminated air. The relay module provides electrical isolation between low-voltage control circuits and high-performance pump systems. This protects sensitive electronic components while enabling the reliable switching of mechanical devices. Thanks to pressure monitoring, the system can dynamically adjust the pump speed, optimizing energy consumption without compromising effective cleaning performance. Furthermore, the system incorporates cycle counting and timing mechanisms to track the number of circulation cycles and identify potential maintenance needs.

[0043] The system's modular design allows for configurations for various environmental applications, from small-scale agricultural installations to larger deployments in industrial plants or waste management facilities. Its scalability enables the parallel operation of multiple units or the expansion of individual components to accommodate varying methane loads and environmental conditions. This flexibility, combined with its autonomous operation capabilities, makes the system suitable for use in remote locations where continuous human monitoring is impractical or unsafe.

[0044] In one embodiment, the system uses gas-sensitive semiconductor sensors of the MQ series, in particular the MQ-4 and MQ-135, where the sensors detect ammonia, benzene, alcohol, smoke, and methane. It is suitable for assessing general air quality. The sensors are integrated at two locations in the system: One or more pretreatment gas sensors are located near the inlet. These sensors continuously monitor the ambient or incoming methane concentration. One or more posttreatment gas sensors are located near the outlet valve. These sensors perform a quality check of the treated, methane-contaminated air and ensure that the air is within the safety limits for the methane concentration. The signal from these posttreatment sensors enables the activation of the system's recirculation mechanism or the opening of the outlet valve to release the treated gas into the environment.The system's dual sensor arrangement enables the generation of a real-time feedback loop, making it more reliable and safer.

[0045] In one embodiment, the system uses two electric suction pumps configured to move air through various treatment and filtrate stages. A primary pump is located near, or installed close to, the inlet to create an airflow by drawing external methane-rich air into the gas chamber, thus ensuring the generation of a pressure differential necessary for the system to operate smoothly. The secondary pump is installed downstream of the enzyme chamber and configured to provide a continuous airflow throughout the entire purification path, including the resistant biochar and liquid chambers.The system's dual-pump design enables: prevention of backflow and stagnation; a consistent airflow (essential for sensor accuracy and enzymatic function); and sufficient air residence time to interact with the filter materials. The pumps are switched on and off via the relay module based on sensor inputs processed by an Arduino (microcontroller) to allow dynamic airflow control according to methane concentration.

[0046] In one embodiment, the system includes an Arduino-based microcontroller unit as its core component. This unit is configured for automation, data processing, and component control. It is configured for sensor data acquisition, data interpretation, component control, and the implementation of the feedback logic. Data acquired by the sensors before and after treatment is transmitted to the microcontroller. Using pre-installed code, the microcontroller interprets the data and determines whether the methane content is within an acceptable range. The microcontroller sends control signals to the relay module, which responds to the sensor data. Upon receiving this signal, the relay module switches the pumps on or off, or opens or closes the outlet valve. The microcontroller uses the relay module to open or close the outlet valve, thus implementing the feedback mechanism.If the treated air exceeds the safety limits, the microcontroller, upon receiving the corresponding sensor information, closes the exhaust valve and returns the air to the gas chamber for further purification. By combining sensor feedback and control logic, Arduino enables autonomous operation, making the system scalable and user-friendly for experimental and field applications. The relay module is primarily integrated to drive high-power devices such as pumps and exhaust valves, acting as an interface between these devices and the microcontroller. The relay is an electromechanical switch that isolates low-power circuits from high-power circuits. It enables the safe and reliable activation of the suction pumps and other auxiliary devices (e.g., solenoid valves or exhaust valves).When the microcontroller receives data from the pretreatment sensor indicating a high methane content, it sends a trigger signal to the relay module, which activates the pump to initiate air purification. This system architecture is electrically safe and isolates the sensitive components from voltage spikes.

[0047] In one embodiment, the air collected in the gas chamber is fed to a biochar container, which acts as the first purification stage of the system, by means of the pressure differential generated by the two pumps. Biochar is a porous, carbon-rich substance produced by the pyrolysis of organic waste (wood shavings, rice hulls, etc.). The functional advantages of the biochar container include: particle adsorption, with biochar capturing airborne particles of sizes PM 2.5 and PM 10; microbial neutralization, with the container's surface being rich in antimicrobial compounds and pores that physically retain airborne microbes; and the adsorption of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and traces of methane, which are weakly adsorbed onto the biochar due to its large surface area and the functional groups present on its surface.The biochar container enables: the preconditioning of the air before enzymatic treatment, the removal of impurities, the extension of enzyme lifespan and the improvement of the efficiency of subsequent reactions; and the fulfillment of the requirement for low maintenance, which allows for regular reactivation or replacement.

[0048] In one embodiment, the air obtained from the biochar compartment is further fed to or transferred into an enzyme-water compartment, which represents the second purification stage, wherein this compartment is filled with enzyme-water-loaded silica gel in which biochemical reactions take place to break down methane into less toxic by-products.

[0049] In one implementation, the system first performs air detection and intake. Airflow and pressure are then maintained by activating two pumps. This facilitates air intake into the gas chamber, from which the gas is directed into the biochar chamber and the treated air is then routed to the enzymatic treatment chamber. The treated air is passed through a post-treatment sensor array to ensure its quality. If the air quality falls outside the acceptable range, it is subsequently returned to the gas chamber.

[0050] In one embodiment, the system continuously monitors the environment and uses a methane pretreatment sensor (CH4) to detect the ambient methane concentration. This sensor is calibrated to detect concentrations exceeding a specific threshold programmed into the Arduino microcontroller. When methane levels are elevated, the Arduino sends a signal to a relay module, which activates the suction pumps, thus initiating the cleaning cycle. This targeted activation offers several key advantages: it saves energy, as the system only operates when needed, reducing unnecessary power consumption; it enhances safety by enabling a rapid response to potentially hazardous methane levels; and it extends the lifespan of mechanical components by minimizing unnecessary pump operation.

[0051] In one implementation, upon system activation, the primary suction pump initiates an airflow by drawing ambient air or air from enclosed spaces through appropriate inlets into the gas chamber, which serves as an initial buffer and air distribution zone. A secondary auxiliary pump downstream of the filter units supports the process by maintaining a controlled negative pressure gradient. This ensures a continuous airflow throughout the entire filter path, from inlet to outlet, and promotes a smooth flow and turbulence-free, laminar motion. Such flow conditions are crucial for maximizing the contact time between the air and the filter medium. Sensors within the gas chamber and downstream of the filter stages monitor parameters such as flow rate and pressure.These sensor values ​​are forwarded to an Arduino controller, which dynamically adjusts the pump speed to optimize airflow and throughput without compromising cleaning efficiency or quality.

[0052] In one embodiment, the airflow from the gas chamber enters the biochar chamber, which contains a cylindrical or layered matrix completely saturated with activated biochar. Activated biochar is a carbon-rich material with a large surface area, produced by the pyrolysis of biomass under oxygen-depleted conditions. The biochar layer serves a dual purpose: it acts not only as a filter medium but also as a pretreatment step. This pretreatment function is particularly important because it significantly reduces the pollutant load in the air upstream of the enzyme reactor. By minimizing the load on the enzyme treatment system, the biochar layer helps to extend the lifespan of the enzymes and increase the overall efficiency of the subsequent biochemical reactions.After pretreatment by the biochar layer, the air, still containing residual methane, enters the enzyme treatment chamber. There, it is either directed into a silica gel loaded with enzyme solution in a reaction chamber or through an atomization system. The central biochemical process is enabled by a biomimetic enzyme called methane monooxygenase (MMO), which is encapsulated in silica spheres. This enzyme catalyzes the conversion of methane (CH4) to methanol (CH3OH). Additionally, this compartment contains enzymatically coated spheres or a water-immersed network structure. These elements further catalyze the breakdown of methanol into its end products: carbon dioxide (CO2) and water (H2O).

[0053] In one implementation, the air treated with the biochar and enzymatic treatment chamber flows through a post-treatment monitoring system. This monitoring unit consists of a post-treatment sensor array, typically containing a semiconductor methane sensor such as the MQ-4. The sensor measures the methane concentration in the exhaust air. If the measured methane level is below a predefined safety limit (e.g., less than 50 ppm), an Arduino microcontroller triggers a servo motor or solenoid valve to open the outlet. This allows the purified air to be safely released from the system. However, if the methane concentration remains above the permissible limit, the system switches to containment mode. In this state, the outlet seal remains closed, preventing the escape of partially or untreated air into the environment.This monitoring loop acts as a failsafe, ensuring that only air meeting safety and treatment standards leaves the system. Under certain conditions, complete air purification cannot be achieved in a single treatment cycle. These include environments with high methane concentrations, such as animal barns or landfill edges; situations with partial saturation of the enzyme components; and scenarios with short residence times due to rapid airflow. Under such conditions, and if the air remains insufficiently purified, the system activates a recirculation loop. The Arduino controller closes the outlet valve and redirects the air back to the initial gas treatment stages or into the gas chamber via internal piping systems such as bypass pipes or valves. The air then undergoes several successive passes through both biochar filtration and enzymatic treatment.Each cycle gradually reduces the methane concentration in the air. To monitor the rate of air circulation, the system features a volumetric counter / timer that records the number of completed treatment cycles. If, after several cycles, the air still does not meet the required purification standards, the system can issue a signal indicating the need for maintenance or an extended treatment time. This closed, adaptive configuration ensures consistent purification performance, even under varying environmental conditions or fluctuating operating conditions.

[0054] In one implementation, the system is configured for operation in methane-rich environments such as farms, where methane gas is naturally emitted from cow dung. Once an external methane sensor detects methane, the system activates automatically. A 12V suction pump draws the methane-containing ambient air into the system, ensuring a consistent airflow and stable pressure conditions throughout operation. Inside the system, the air enters a special treatment chamber containing a combination of biochar and immobilized enzymes. These enzymes are embedded in silica spheres suspended in water. Together, the biochar and enzyme solution initiate a biological degradation process that converts methane (CH4) into less harmful substances, primarily carbon dioxide (CO2) and water (H2O). Following this treatment, the purity of the treated air is assessed.If the methane concentration in the air is within the acceptable or safe range, the purified air is released into the environment through an outlet pipe. However, if the air remains impure, it undergoes a second analysis using an internal methane sensor within the system. If the methane content remains high, the air is returned to the gas collection tank for further purification. This recirculation cycle is repeated until the air meets the required purity standards. If the methane content is below 50 ppm, the air is considered clean and is released. If it is between 50 and 500 ppm, it is still considered acceptable, and the air can leave the system. If the concentration is between 500 and 1000 ppm, the air must be purified further, and the system continues the filtration process. If the methane concentration exceeds 1000 ppm, the air is considered impure and unsafe; the system remains operational and prevents the release of untreated air.Once the air is confirmed to be purified and meets the defined safety limits, a solenoid valve on the right side of the unit opens and releases the clean air into the environment. If the methane concentration remains above the permissible limit, the internal piping system directs the air upwards and back into the collection tank, thus initiating another purification cycle. This cycle runs autonomously and continues until the released air meets the desired purity criteria.

[0055] In the first cycle, the system can remove approximately 60-70% of the methane, leaving about 30-40 units. In the second cycle, the remaining methane is reduced to about 10-12 units, meaning that 85-90% of the methane has been removed. In the third cycle, the system achieves near-complete purification, leaving only 2-3 units of methane, and the efficiency rate is around 95-98%.

[0056] The proposed methane air purification system offers an automated and environmentally friendly solution for combating methane pollution. By integrating real-time gas sensing, biological filtration with biochar, and enzymatic degradation using immobilized enzymes, the system effectively detoxifies methane from the air. It operates with low maintenance and minimal operating costs, making it both efficient and practical. The ability to automatically detect, purify, and treat polluted air ensures high reliability and consistency in methane reduction. As a cost-effective and scalable prototype, this system offers significant potential for deployment in environments with a high risk of methane emissions, ultimately contributing to environmental protection, climate change mitigation, and improved public health and safety.

[0057] The drawings and the preceding description show examples of embodiments. Those skilled in the art will recognize that one or more of the described elements can be combined to form a single functional element. Alternatively, certain elements can be divided into several functional elements. Elements of one embodiment can be added to another embodiment. For example, the sequence of the processes described here can be changed and is not limited to the manner described here. Furthermore, the actions of a flowchart need not be implemented in the sequence shown; nor does it necessarily have to be performed by all actions. Actions that are not dependent on other actions can also be performed in parallel with the other actions. The scope of the embodiments is in no way limited by these specific examples.Numerous variations are possible, whether explicitly stated in the specification or not, such as differences in structure, dimensions, and material use. The range of embodiments is at least as broad as specified in the following claims.

[0058] Advantages, further benefits, and problem solutions have been described above with reference to specific embodiments. However, the advantages, benefits, problem solutions, and all components that can lead to an advantage, benefit, or solution occurring or becoming more apparent are not to be construed as critical, necessary, or essential features or components of individual or all claims. REFERENCES 100 The system for automated methane filtration and purification includes. 102 Multiple methane pretreatment sensors 104 microcontrollers 106 Gas chamber 108 Primary suction pump 110 biochar compartments 112 Enzyme-water compartment 114 Secondary suction pump 116 Relay module 118 Variety of Methane Aftertreatment Sensors 120 exhaust valve 122 One or more pressure sensors 124 timer 202 methane sensors 204 gas collection tanks 206 Arduino 208 relays 210 Admission 212 Suction pump 214 Valve 216 Socket Valve 218 Pure Air 220 Suction Pump 222 Enzyme compartment 224 Biochar compartment

Claims

[1] A system for automated methane filtration and purification, consisting of: a large number of methane sensors prior to treatment, configured to continuously monitor the methane concentration in the environment and generate signals when the methane level exceeds a predetermined threshold; a microcontroller configured to receive signals from the methane sensors prior to treatment and to control the operation of the system components; a gas chamber configured to receive incoming air and distribute it to downstream filter components; a primary suction pump configured to draw ambient air into the gas chamber when a high methane concentration is detected; a biochar compartment configured to draw air from the gas chamber and remove particles, microorganisms and volatile organic compounds by adsorption; an enzyme-water compartment configured to absorb air from the biochar compartment and biologically degrade methane molecules by means of enzymatic treatment; a secondary suction pump configured to maintain a continuous airflow through the biochar compartment and the enzyme water compartment; a relay module configured to receive control signals from the microcontroller and activate the primary suction pump and the secondary suction pump; a large number of methane sensors after treatment, configured to monitor the methane concentration in the air exiting the enzyme-water compartment; and an exhaust valve configured to release purified air when the aftertreatment methane sensor indicates a methane concentration below a safety threshold, with the system returning the air to the gas chamber by keeping the exhaust valve closed when the aftertreatment methane sensor indicates a methane concentration above the safety threshold. [2] System according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of methane sensors before treatment comprises an MQ-135 gas sensor configured to detect methane, ammonia, benzene, alcohol and smoke, and the plurality of methane sensors after treatment comprises an MQ-4 gas sensor specifically configured to detect the methane concentration. [3] System according to claim 1, wherein the microcontroller comprises an Arduino Uno board configured to continuously read analog signals from the methane sensors before and after treatment, process sensor data according to pre-programmed thresholds, generate control signals for the relay module based on processed sensor data, and implement feedback logic when the methane levels after treatment exceed the safety limits. [4] System according to claim 1, wherein the biochar compartment comprises: a cylindrical or layered matrix containing activated biochar, wherein the activated biochar is a porous, carbon-rich material produced by pyrolysis of organic biomass, and wherein the activated biochar is configured to adsorb particles such as PM 2.5 and PM 10, neutralize airborne microorganisms, and adsorb volatile organic compounds and traces of methane. [5] System according to claim 1, wherein the enzyme-water compartment comprises: silica gel beads loaded with the enzyme methane monooxygenase (MMO); an aqueous enzyme solution; and enzymatically coated beads or a mesh immersed in water, wherein the enzyme methane monooxygenase is configured to convert methane to methanol, and wherein the enzymatically coated beads or mesh are configured to convert methanol to carbon dioxide and water. [6] System according to claim 1, wherein the relay module comprises an electromechanical switch configured to isolate low-voltage control signals from high-power pump circuits, wherein the relay module is configured to provide electrical safety by preventing voltage spikes from affecting the microcontroller; and wherein the relay module is configured to control the activation and deactivation of auxiliary devices, including solenoid valves used to open the outlet valve. [7] System according to claim 1, wherein the system is further configured to maintain a controlled negative pressure gradient between the primary suction pump and the secondary suction pump, to ensure a laminar airflow through the biochar compartment and the enzyme water compartment, and to dynamically adjust the pump speed based on airflow rate and pressure measurements. [8] System according to claim 1, further comprising: one or more pressure sensors configured to monitor the airflow rate and pressure in the gas chamber and in the post-filtration areas, wherein the microcontroller is configured to receive pressure measurements and dynamically adjust the operation of the primary suction pump and the secondary suction pump to optimize throughput while maintaining cleaning quality. [9] System according to claim 1, wherein the system is further configured to: maintain a circulation counter to track the number of processing cycles for the recirculated air; implement a timing mechanism to monitor the residence time of the air in the biochar compartment and in the enzyme water compartment; and generate maintenance signals when the cleaning efficiency falls below predetermined standards after several circulation cycles. [10] System according to claim 1, wherein the system is configured for operation under various environmental conditions, including: urban industrial sites with increased methane emissions; livestock farms with high methane concentrations in the surrounding area; and landfills with varying methane levels; wherein the system autonomously adjusts the cleaning cycles based on the methane concentrations detected specific to each environmental condition.

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