AIR PURIFICATION DEVICE BY PHOTOCATALYSIS AND AIR TREATMENT DEVICE

Abstract

The present invention relates to an air purification device (1) comprising a wadding cushion (3) receiving at least one light guide (5), the wadding cushion (3) being formed of photocatalyst fibers, the light guide (5) being configured to be supplied with light by a light source, and the light guide (5) having lateral light diffusion means (8) for diffusing light laterally with respect to the direction of light movement in the light guide (5). The invention also relates to an air treatment apparatus comprising such an air purification device (1). Figure for the abstract: Fig. 1

Description

Title of the invention: PHOTOCATALYTIC AIR PURIFICATION DEVICE AND TREATMENT APPARATUS OF AIR FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of depollution and purification of indoor air in homes, and in particular to an air purification device as well as to an air treatment apparatus provided with such an air purification device.

[0002] It will be noted that, in this document, the terms “longitudinal”, “transverse”, “perpendicular”, “parallel”, “rotation”, “horizontal”, “vertical”, “lower”, “upper”, “high”, “lower”, “secant”, “coaxial”, “convex”, “concave”, “plane” used to describe the apparatus according to the invention, refer to this device in a situation of use, when it is placed on a horizontal plane.

[0003] Pollutants are mainly composed of two categories. One includes particulate pollutants such as dust, bacteria, molds, which are large in shape and have complex molecular structures, ranging in size from 0.01 micrometers to several hundred micrometers. The other category includes gaseous pollutants, for example volatile emanations perceived by the sense of smell, such as odors, or volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as chemical compounds, generally with a simple chemical structure. Gaseous pollutants can be composed of a variety of chemical elements. Their size is small and varies from a few angstroms to a few nanometers.

[0004] Advanced Oxidation Techniques (AOT) allow the oxidization of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The most effective are those that lead to the formation of hydroxyl radicals OH, which have a higher oxidizing power than traditional oxidants. This is the case of photocatalysis. Photocatalysis consists of the irradiation of a semiconductor material (TiO2 type), which will allow the oxidation or reduction of VOCs in contact with the photocatalytic material. The energy provided by the light activates the semiconductor. The semiconductor is considered a catalyst.The principle is based on the absorption of a photon by the semiconductor solid, leading to the promotion of an electron from the valence band to the conduction band by releasing a vacancy, and thus forming free radicals which will either react with compounds present in the surrounding environment or recombine following various mechanisms, thus giving the solid oxidizing and reducing properties. Most organovolatile compounds as well as many pesticides, herbicides, surfactants and dyes are completely . oxidized into less toxic products by this technique, until carbon dioxide CO2 and water H2O are obtained.

[0005] The main VOCs in ambient air are: formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, acetone, heptane, alcohols including isopropanol, decane, benzene, toluene. STATE OF THE ART

[0006] Filters for treating VOCs, such as activated carbon filters, are known. Such filters are, for example, integrated into air treatment units. However, these filters have a limited lifespan and must be replaced regularly. In addition, replacing these filters represents a cost, and they are generally not recyclable.

[0007] Air treatment devices that use the photocatalysis technique are also known. However, these devices often release VOCs when, on the contrary, they are supposed to eliminate them and purify the air. It is difficult to understand why an air purifier or air purifier releases VOCs even if the VOCs released are different in nature and / or quantity from what was present in the air initially before purification. The major disadvantage of these devices is therefore the production of by-products, which can sometimes be more dangerous than the initial molecules, for example heptane which, when degraded, can form formaldehyde.

[0008] To reduce the formation of these toxic by-products, known air treatment devices propose to lower the operating speed (gas velocity or light intensity) until the VOC content in the air to be purified drops below a certain value. It is therefore unfortunate not to be able to operate the air treatment device precisely when it is most needed, i.e. in the presence of a high VOC concentration. As a result, gaseous phase pollutants cannot be absorbed and eliminated efficiently. In addition, the accumulation of pollutants in the form of particles on the surface of the gaseous elimination filter could lead to other problems, such as the appearance of incubation zones for the growth of bacteria, or a loss of filter efficiency over time. Statement of the invention

[0009] The invention proposes to resolve these drawbacks by proposing an air purification device produced in a simple manner while being permanently effective in eliminating pollutants such as VOCs.

[0010] According to a first aspect, the invention proposes an air purification device, comprising a cotton pad receiving at least one light guide, the cotton pad being formed from photocatalyst fibers, the light guide being configured to be supplied with light by a source of light, and the light guide having lateral light diffusion means for diffusing light laterally relative to the direction of travel of the light in the light guide.

[0011] Thus, the air purification device is produced in a particularly simple manner while being particularly effective in removing pollutants such as VOCs. Indeed, the arrangement in the form of a wadding cushion formed from photocatalyst fibers and receiving at least one light guide, makes it possible to maximize photocatalysis while being simple to manufacture, by maximizing the probability that polluted air encounters a photocatalytic site activated by light, by significantly increasing the contact time of the pollutants with photocatalytic sites. Thus, a single assembly, namely the assembly of the wadding cushion and the light guide, makes it possible to carry out photocatalysis. Such an air purification device also has the advantage of being permanent, and does not require regular replacement.Thus, a device, for example an air treatment device, equipped with such an air purification device, is easier to maintain, since it does not require regular replacement of the air purification device.

[0012] According to a second aspect, the invention also proposes an air treatment apparatus comprising: - an air circulation duct between an air inlet and an air outlet, - a light source, and - an air purification device as previously described and arranged in the air circulation duct, in which the light guide is supplied with light by the light source.

[0013] The invention is advantageously and optionally supplemented by the following characteristics, taken alone or in any of their technically possible combinations:

[0014] - The photocatalyst consists of at least one photocatalyst material.

[0015] - The photocatalyst is formed solely of at least one catalyst material with photocatalytic action.

[0016] - The photocatalyst is a catalyst with photo-catalytic action, which is not mis metal.

[0017] - The photocatalyst fibers are not metallic.

[0018] - Photocatalyst fibers are formed solely of photocatalyst.

[0019] - The wadding cushion has a thickness less than its other dimensions, for example example its longitudinal and transverse dimensions, thickness in which the at least one light guide is received.

[0020] - The wadding cushion is formed in its thickness by two half-wadding cushions, between which at least one light guide is received.

[0021] - The wadding cushion is obtained from a textile sheet comprising fibers formed from photocatalyst, preferably by fluffing.

[0022] - The textile sheet comprises the light guide, the light guide comprising preferably at least one optical fiber.

[0023] - The light guide is formed from a material chosen from the group comprising polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polycarbonate (PC) and cycloolefins (COP), preferably polycarbonate (PC).

[0024] - The means of lateral diffusion of light are formed by alterations in surface of the light guide. Thus, the means of lateral diffusion of light are produced in a particularly simple manner.

[0025] - One end of the light guide is configured to be arranged opposite a light source for transmitting light and laterally emitting light at the lateral light scattering means to activate the photocatalyst.

[0026] - The surface alterations of the light guide can be carried out in various ways ways, and in particular by sandblasting, chemical etching or fusion processes using high-intensity light radiation such as a laser. Of course, such alterations can also be carried out by many other mechanical or chemical processes.

[0027] - The surface alterations of the light guide can be distributed sy metric or asymmetrical (e.g. progressive). Indeed, in order to achieve homogeneous illumination of the cotton pad, and therefore homogeneous activation of the photocatalyst in the cotton pad, the surface density or the dimension of the alterations can vary from one zone to another of the light guide. For example, the surface density of the alterations is low on the side of the light source and increases as one moves away from the light source.

[0028] - The light guide passes through the wadding cushion. Thus, the structural integrity of the cotton wool cushion is reinforced.

[0029] - The light guide comprises at least one optical fiber.

[0030] - The light guide is a sheet, preferably formed from optical fibers.

[0031] - The cotton pad receives several light guides. Thus, the presence of Multiple light guides make it possible to improve the efficiency of photocatalysis in a particularly simple way. Such an arrangement is therefore particularly effective in removing pollutants such as VOCs.

[0032] - The light guides received in the cotton pad are coplanar. Thus, the re light partition within the wadding cushion is optimized.

[0033] - The light guides received in the cotton pad are equidistant. Thus, the re Light partition within the wadding cushion is optimized and ensures the minimum effective light dose is produced throughout the wadding cushion.

[0034] - The light guides are powered by a single light source. Thus, the fa Construction is simplified, as only one light source is used.

[0035] - A first of the light guides passes through the wadding cushion, preferably a a second of the light guides is arranged against an external surface of the cotton pad, and preferably a third of the light guides is arranged against another surface of the cotton pad opposite the external surface.

[0036] - A guide assembly comprises a trunk from which several branches extend, each branch forming a light guide, the light source feeding the guide assembly to a single light input from the trunk. Thus, photocatalysis is optimized in a simple way.

[0037] - The guide assembly has a fork shape. Thus, the distribution of light and the photocatalysis are optimized while having a simple shaped guide assembly, the manufacture of which is thus simplified.

[0038] - The guide assembly is formed from the same material, preferably integrally from a single piece. This simplifies manufacturing.

[0039] - The air purification device further comprises means for maintaining in position of the cotton pad, the means for holding it in position preferably comprising a cartridge. Thus, the air purification device is of modular design, which facilitates its assembly or integration into a device, such as an air treatment device.

[0040] - The photocatalyst is activated by light which can be of the ultraviolet type, by through the light guide(s) configured to guide the light inside the cotton pad. A simple cutting of the cotton pad to the dimensions of the air purification device or the means for holding it in position makes it possible to produce purification devices of any size.

[0041] - The wadding cushion has a transverse dimension less than or equal to 20 centimeters.

[0042] - The wadding cushion has a longitudinal dimension less than or equal to 1 meter.

[0043] - The photocatalyst fibers have a smaller dimension of at least 10 micrometers. Thus, the resistance of the thread formed by the photocatalyst fibers is improved.

[0044] - The photocatalyst fibers are macroscopic. For the purposes of this invention, by macroscopic fiber is meant a strand in which the smallest dimension is at least 10 micrometers. Preferably, the strand has two average dimensions orthogonal to its longitudinal axis, the first average dimension (corresponding to its width) varies from 30 to 60 micrometers, preferably from 40 to 50 micrometers, and the second average dimension (corresponding to its thickness) varies from 10 to 40 micrometers, preferably from 10 to 20 micrometers.

[0045] - The photocatalyst is a semiconductor material. Thus, the photocatalyst is made in a simple way.

[0046] - The photocatalyst comprises at least one oxide chosen from the group consisting of of TiO2, ZnO, CeO2. Thus, the photocatalyst is made in a simple way while being particularly effective.

[0047] - The photocatalyst comprises at least partially crystalline TiO2, preference for predominantly crystalline TiO2. Thus, the photocatalyst is particularly effective.

[0048] - The air purification device comprises several cotton pads arranged one above the other, with or without contact, each cotton pad receiving at least one light guide, each cotton pad being formed of photocatalyst fibers. Thus, the presence of several cotton pads makes it possible to improve the efficiency of photocatalysis in a particularly simple way. Such an arrangement is therefore particularly effective for eliminating pollutants such as VOCs.

[0049] - The wadding cushions are arranged in parallel layers, preferably flat or non-planar.

[0050] - The wadding cushions are curved.

[0051] - The wadding cushions are spaced at least a predetermined value such that so that air to be purified circulates between the cotton pads, preferably the predetermined value being greater than or equal to 5 millimeters. Thus, the spacing of a predetermined value present between the cotton pads increases the efficiency of the air purification device, such an air purification device making it possible to purify a large air flow while being of compact construction. The air to be purified circulates between the cotton pads in order to come into contact with the photocatalyst. Advantageously, the air circulation is done according to a low but swirling medium flow rate. These cotton pads allow the air to circulate along the cotton pads and / or between the cotton pads, in a direction parallel to the cotton pads. This makes it possible to maximize the contact of the air to be purified with the photocatalyst.If the cotton pads are too far apart, the air only circulates in a laminar manner and the probability of air contact with the photocatalyst is reduced, decreasing the purification efficiency. Advantageously, the cotton pads are close enough together to maximize air contact with the photocatalytic surface, and cause vortices in the airflow. Advantageously, the cotton pads are close enough together to maximize air contact with the photocatalytic surface, and cause vortices in the airflow.

[0052] - The wadding cushions are directly superimposed on each other. Thus, the air to be purified necessarily passes through the cotton wool cushions, and the photocatalytic action is improved.

[0053] - Other arrangements of the wadding cushion(s) may be envisaged, for example in the form of rolls where each wadding pad is rolled up on itself like a roll of carpet.

[0054] - The light source may be composed of several identical light sources or different, which may be of different natures, and in particular be in the form of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) or extended sources such as incandescent lamps, fluorescent tubes or discharge tubes incorporating a gas such as neon.

[0055] - The light source supplies light to one end of the light guide.

[0056] - The air treatment device comprises several air inlets, identical or different different.

[0057] - The air treatment device comprises several air outlets, identical or different different.

[0058] - The air treatment device is a domestic device comprising a casing forming the outer casing of the air handling unit.

[0059] - The air treatment device is configured to be movable during its operation. operation. This simplifies handling and moving the unit. In fact, the air treatment unit is movable and not fixed to a support. Thus, the air treatment unit can be carried by a user in order to move it, either by pushing it with the foot or by grasping it with the hands, whether the air treatment unit is in operation or not.

[0060] - The air treatment device is an individual domestic device and not a centralized air conditioning system, for example in a hospital, airport, shopping center, metro or train station.

[0061] - The air treatment device is an individual portable device suitable for small spaces such as a single-family home or a caravan.

[0062] - The light source is a UV light source. Thus, the photo-ca action talytic is carried out in a simple manner while being particularly effective.

[0063] - The light source may comprise a collector capable of focusing in a manner point or linear natural solar light towards at least one end of at least one light guide.

[0064] - The light source comprises an LED. Thus, the light source is made of simple way while being particularly effective.

[0065] - The light source can be made with a UVA, UVB or UVC LED. Such a system allows to combine minimal energy consumption with notable efficiency.

[0066] - The air treatment apparatus further comprises a gold compound analyzer volatile organic compounds and an automatic adjustment member, which is configured to automatically adjust, depending on the content of volatile organic compounds analyzed by the analyzer, the speed of the air entering the air inlet and / or the light intensity of the light source.

[0067] - The cotton wool cushion is arranged parallel to the air flow in the cir duct air circulation. Thus, the air flow passes through and / or flows along the wadding cushion, in other words tangentially to it, and the photocatalytic action is improved.

[0068] - The cotton wool cushion is arranged transversely to the air flow in the cir duct air circulation. Thus, the air flow necessarily passes through the cotton pad, and the photocatalytic action is improved.

[0069] - The air treatment device further comprises a particle filter. Such a particle filter particles separates particles from the air by mechanical action, retaining on the surface particles whose diameter is greater than the diameter of the pores of the filter and being able to retain particles whose diameter is smaller than that of the pores of the filter by the action of electrostatic forces.

[0070] - The particle filter is arranged, according to the movement of the air between the air inlet and the air outlet, upstream of the air purification device. This prevents the air purification device from becoming clogged with particles.

[0071] - The particle filter is a HEPA filter, acronym for High Efficiency Par- HEPA filter, meaning high efficiency particulate air filter. The HEPA filter is preferably capable of filtering, in one pass, at least 99.97% of particles with a diameter greater than or equal to 0.3 micrometers.

[0072] - The air treatment device further comprises a carbon filter active. Thus, the air purification device can more effectively remove pollutants that pass through the activated carbon filter. Activated carbon filters were developed in response to industrial emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). In an activated carbon adsorption system, contaminated air is directed over a bed of carbon. The carbon extracts VOCs from the air and adsorbs them, holding them on the surface.

[0073] - The activated carbon filter is arranged, according to the movement of air between the inlet air inlet and the air outlet, downstream of the air purification device. Thus, the activated carbon filter makes it possible to eliminate "by-product" pollutants passing through the air purification device, which could be produced exceptionally (for example in connection with an abnormal peak in pollutant concentrations). Activated carbon filters were developed in response to industrial emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). In an activated carbon adsorption system, the air The contaminated air is directed onto a carbon bed. The carbon extracts the VOCs from the air and adsorbs them, keeping them on the surface. Since this activated carbon filter is only present for exceptional purposes, it is a permanent part of the device, not a consumable.

[0074] - The air treatment device further comprises a formaldehyde filter. Thus, the formaldehyde that could exceptionally come out of the air purification device would be captured.

[0075] - The air treatment apparatus further comprises a dehumidifier. Such a Dehumidifier serves to reduce the moisture content of the air and increases the efficiency of the air handling unit.

[0076] - The air treatment apparatus further comprises an air movement member configured to move air from the air inlet to the air outlet. Thus, air movement is forced between the air inlet and the air outlet.

[0077] - The air displacement member is for example a radial flow or radial flow turbine mixed, or a fan, arranged downstream of the air purification device. In this case, a motor fan unit can be arranged on the air outlet side, above the air purification device.

[0078] - The air treatment device further comprises one or more fans, agitators or turbulators. Thus, the presence of one or more fans, agitators or turbulators makes it possible to generate turbulence in the air flow passing through the air purification device, for example so as to generate vortices between the cotton pads, which further increases its efficiency.

[0079] - The air treatment device has a volume of less than 1 m3, preferably less than 0.8 m3, more preferably less than 0.6 m3.

[0080] - The air treatment device has a mass less than or equal to 30 kg, of preferably less than 20 kg, more preferably less than 6 kg.

[0081] - The air treatment device has an exposed surface of cotton wool cushion of at least 4000 cm2, preferably at least 6000 cm2, more preferably at least 8000 cm2. By apparent surface is meant the surface of the wadding cushion in contact with the air flow.

[0082] - The air flow moving in the air purification device has a speed less than 1 m / s, preferably less than 0.5 m / s, more preferably less than 0.2 m / s.

[0083] - A contact time of the pollutants with the cotton wool cushion is at least 0.5 s and can be as long as possible, for example by means of a flow of the air flow through the cotton wool cushion, either parallel to the light guide or orthogonally to the light guide, or by means of a swirling flow of the air flow to be treated. Thus the air flow to be treated has a rotational speed in all point. The swirling flow increases the average contact time between the air to be treated and the air purification device. The longer the contact time, the less risk there is of producing polluting by-products. DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

[0084] Other characteristics, aims and advantages of the invention will emerge from the detailed description below, which is purely illustrative and non-limiting, and which must be read in conjunction with the appended drawings, given as non-limiting examples and in which:

[0085] [Fig. 1] is a schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the air purification device;

[0086] [Fig.2] is a top view of an exemplary embodiment of a light source supplying light to the air purification device;

[0087] [Fig.3] is a schematic perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the air purification device;

[0088] [Fig.4] is a schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a air treatment device comprising an air purification device;

[0089] [Fig.5] is a schematic diagram of the circulation of air in the air treatment device;

[0090] [Fig.6] is a schematic diagram of the air circulation in the air purification device of the air treatment unit.

[0091] Throughout the figures, similar elements are designated by identical references. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0092] [Fig.l] represents an air purification device 1. The air purification device 1 comprises at least one cotton pad 3 receiving at least one light guide 5.

[0093] For example, the cotton pad 3 receives several light guides 5.

[0094] In the example illustrated in [Fig.l], the air purification device 1 comprises a cotton pad 3, which receives several light guides 5.

[0095] The wadding cushion 3 is formed from photocatalyst fibers. The wadding cushion 3 preferably has a thickness less than its other dimensions, for example its longitudinal and transverse dimensions, thickness in which the at least one light guide 5 is received. Advantageously, the wadding cushion 3 has a transverse dimension less than or equal to 20 centimeters and a longitudinal dimension less than or equal to 1 meter.

[0096] In the example illustrated in [Fig.l], the light guides 5 received in the wadding cushion 3 are coplanar. Furthermore, the light guides 5 received in the cushion of cotton wool 3 are preferably equidistant.

[0097] Preferably, each light guide 5 passes through the cotton pad 3.

[0098] Furthermore, each light guide 5 has lateral light diffusion means 8 in order to diffuse light laterally relative to the direction of movement of the light in the light guide 5.

[0099] Each light guide 5 is configured to be supplied with light by a light source 9, as shown for example in [Fig. 2]. One end of each light guide 5 is for example configured to be arranged opposite the light source 9 to transmit the light and emit light laterally at the level of the lateral light diffusion means 8 to activate the photocatalyst.

[0100] For example, each light guide 5 is formed from a material selected from the group comprising polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polycarbonate (PC) and cycloolefins (COP), preferably polycarbonate (PC). Preferably, each light guide 5 is formed from polycarbonate (PC).

[0101] The light guide 5 may comprise a conduit, in particular in the form of a tube.

[0102] Preferably, the light guide 5 is solid.

[0103] According to one variant, the light guide 5 comprises at least one optical fiber. Advantageously, the light guide 5 is formed by at least one optical fiber.

[0104] In the example illustrated in [Fig.l], a guide assembly 10 comprises a trunk 11 from which several branches extend in the form of tubing, each branch forming a light guide 5. Such a guide assembly 10 has a fork shape. Thus, the light source 9 supplies the guide assembly 10 with a single light input of the trunk 11.

[0105] Preferably, the guide assembly 10 is formed from the same material, for example entirely in one piece.

[0106] The light guide 5 may also have a planar shape, for example a sheet as described below with reference to [Fig.3].

[0107] The light guide 5 is for example formed from a material chosen from the group comprising polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polycarbonate (PC) and cycloolefins (COP), preferably polycarbonate (PC). In this example, the guide assembly 10 is formed from polycarbonate (PC).

[0108] As shown for example in [Fig.2], the air purification device 1 preferably also comprises means 13 for holding the cotton wool cushion 3 in position. The means 13 for holding the cushion in position are preferably formed by a cartridge.

[0109] The photocatalyst consists of at least one photocatalyst material. In this For example, the photocatalyst is formed solely of at least one catalyst material with photocatalytic action. Thus, the photocatalyst fibers are formed solely of photocatalyst.

[0110] Furthermore, the photocatalyst is a catalyst with photocatalytic action, which is not metallic. Thus, the photocatalyst fibers are not metallic.

[0111] Preferably, the photocatalyst fibers have a smaller dimension of at least 10 micrometers. Thus, photocatalyst fibers are macroscopic. In other words, a macroscopic fiber is a strand in which the smallest dimension is at least 10 micrometers.

[0112] Preferably, the strand has two average dimensions orthogonal to its longitudinal axis, the first average dimension (corresponding to its width) varying from 30 to 60 micrometers, preferably from 40 to 50 micrometers, and the second average dimension (corresponding to its thickness) varying from 10 to 40 micrometers, preferably from 10 to 20 micrometers.

[0113] The photocatalyst is preferably a semiconductor material. In this example, the photocatalyst comprises at least one oxide selected from the group consisting of TiO2, ZnO, CeO2.

[0114] Advantageously, the photocatalyst comprises at least partially crystalline TiO2, preferably predominantly crystalline TiO2. Preferably, the photocatalyst is made of at least partially crystalline TiO2, preferably predominantly crystalline TiO2.

[0115] The photocatalyst is activated by light which may be of the ultraviolet type, via the light guide(s) 5 configured to guide the light inside the wadding cushion 3.

[0116] A simple cutting of the cotton wool cushion 3 to the dimensions of the air purification device 1 or the position holding means 13 makes it possible to produce purification devices of any size.

[0117] For example, the lateral light diffusion means 8 are formed by alterations to the surface of the light guide 5. The alterations to the surface of each light guide 5 can be carried out in various ways, and in particular by sandblasting, chemical etching or fusion processes using high-intensity light radiation such as a laser. Of course, such alterations can also be carried out by many other mechanical or chemical processes.

[0118] The surface alterations of each light guide 5 may be distributed symmetrically or asymmetrically (for example progressively). Indeed, in order to achieve homogeneous illumination of the cotton pad 3, and therefore homogeneous activation of the photocatalyst in the cotton pad 3, the surface density or the dimension of the alterations may vary from one area to another of the light guide 5.

[0119] For example, the surface density of the alterations is low on the side of the light source 9 and increases as one moves away from the light source 9.

[0120] The light source 9 is preferably single. Alternatively, the light source 9 may be composed of several identical or different light sources, which may be of different natures, and in particular be in the form of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) or extended sources such as incandescent lamps, fluorescent tubes or discharge tubes incorporating a gas such as neon.

[0121] In this example, the light source 9 supplies light to one end of each light guide 5. In this example, the light source 9 is a UV light source, and comprises an LED. For example, the light source 9 can be produced with a UVA, UVB or UVC LED.

[0122] Alternatively or in a complementary manner, the light source 9 may comprise a collector capable of focusing natural solar light in a point or linear manner towards at least one end of at least one light guide 5.

[0123] [Fig. 3] represents an alternative embodiment of the air purification device 1. In this alternative, the air purification device 1 is such that the wadding cushion 3 is formed in its thickness by two half-wadding cushions 14, between which at least one light guide 5 is received. Thus, according to the alternative shown in [Fig. 3], a light guide 5 is received between two half-wadding cushions 14.

[0124] According to this embodiment variant, it may be particularly advantageous for the light guide 5 to take the form of a sheet. For example, the light guide 5 may comprise a sheet formed from optical fibers, in particular optical fibers woven together.

[0125] In addition to a light guide 5 passing through the wadding pad 3, an additional light guide 5 may also be provided, for example in the form of a sheet, in particular formed of optical fibers, against the upper surface of the wadding pad 3 and / or against the lower surface of the wadding pad 3. Thus, for example, a first of the light guides 5 passes through the wadding pad 3, a second of the light guides 5 is arranged against an external surface of the wadding pad 3, and a third of the light guides 5 is arranged against another surface of the wadding pad 3 opposite the external surface.

[0126] According to a variant, the wadding cushion 3 can be obtained from a textile sheet comprising fibers formed from photocatalyst, preferably by fluffing. Advantageously, the textile sheet comprises the light guide 5, the light guide 5 preferably comprising at least one optical fiber.

[0127] [Fig.4] represents a first example of an embodiment of an air treatment device 15. Such an air treatment device 15 comprises an air purification device 1 as previously described, a light source 9 as previously described, and an air circulation duct 17 between an air inlet 19 and an air outlet 21.

[0128] Alternatively, the air treatment device 15 comprises several air outlets, identical or different, and the air treatment device 15 comprises several air inlets, identical or different.

[0129] The air purification device 1 is arranged in the air circulation duct 17. Each light guide 5 is supplied with light by the light source 9.

[0130] In this example, the air treatment device 15 is a domestic appliance comprising a casing 23 forming the outer casing of the air treatment device 15.

[0131] Preferably, the air treatment apparatus 15 is configured to be movable during its operation. Thus, the air treatment apparatus 15 is an individual domestic appliance and not a centralized air conditioning system, for example of a hospital, an airport, a shopping center, a metro or train station.

[0132] Furthermore, the air treatment device 15 is preferably an individual portable device suitable for small spaces such as that of an individual dwelling or a caravan. Thus, the air treatment device 15 has a volume of less than 1 m3, preferably less than 0.8 m3, more preferably less than 0.6 m3.

[0133] Furthermore, the air treatment device has a mass less than or equal to 30 kg, preferably less than 20 kg, more preferably less than 6 kg.

[0134] The air treatment apparatus 15 further comprises an air movement member 25. The air movement member 25 is configured to move air from the air inlet 19 to the air outlet 21. The air movement member 25 is for example a radial flow or mixed flow turbine, or a fan, arranged downstream of the air purification device 1. In this case, as shown in [Fig. 3], a motor-fan unit 26 may be arranged on the side of the air outlet 21, above the air purification device 1.

[0135] In the example shown in [Fig.4] and in [Fig.5], the air purification device 1 comprises several cotton pads 3 arranged one above the other, with or without contact. As previously described, each cotton pad 3 receives at least one light guide 5, and each cotton pad 3 is formed of photocatalyst fibers.

[0136] In this example, the cotton pads 3 are spaced apart by at least a predetermined value such that air to be purified circulates between the cotton pads 3. preferably, the predetermined value is greater than or equal to 1 millimeter, more preferably greater than or equal to 5 millimeters. Alternatively, the wadding cushions 3 are directly superimposed on each other.

[0137] In this example, the wadding cushions 3 are arranged in parallel layers. The parallel layers may be flat or non-flat. Thus, the wadding cushions 3 are not necessarily flat and may be curved.

[0138] Alternatively, other arrangements of the wadding cushion(s) may be envisaged, for example in the form of rolls where each wadding cushion is rolled up on itself like a roll of carpet.

[0139] Furthermore, in this example, each wadding cushion 3 is arranged parallel to the air flow in the air circulation duct 17. Alternatively, each wadding cushion is arranged transversely to the air flow in the air circulation duct.

[0140] In this example, the air treatment device 15 has an apparent surface area of ​​cotton wool cushion 3 of at least 4000 cm2, preferably at least 6000 cm2, more preferably at least 8000 cm2.

[0141] For example, the air flow moving in the air purification device 1 has a speed of less than 1 m / s, preferably less than 0.5 m / s, more preferably less than 0.2 m / s. Thus, a contact time of the pollutants with the cotton wool cushion 3 is at least 0.5 s.

[0142] The air treatment apparatus 15 further comprises a volatile organic compound analyzer 27 and an automatic adjustment member 29. The automatic adjustment member 29 is configured to automatically adjust, as a function of the volatile organic compound content analyzed by the analyzer 27, the speed of the air entering the air inlet 19 and / or the light intensity of the light source 9.

[0143] Preferably, as shown in [Fig. 5], the air treatment device 15 further comprises at least one filter 31. The filter 31 is arranged, depending on the movement of the air between the air inlet 19 and the air outlet 21, upstream or downstream of the air purification device 1.

[0144] For example, a filter 31 can be placed upstream of the air purification device 1. In this case, a particle filter, of the HEPA filter type, can in particular be provided.

[0145] Advantageously, at least one filter, such as an activated carbon filter or a formaldehyde filter, is arranged downstream of the air purification device 1.

[0146] Alternatively or additionally, the air treatment device 15 further comprises a dehumidifier.

[0147] For example, as shown in [Fig. 6], the air treatment device 15 further comprises one or more fans 31, agitators or turbulators. Thus, the air circulation is carried out according to a flow at low average flow rate but swirling between the wadding cushions 3. Optionally, the air treatment device 15 also includes at least one deflector 33, configured to reduce air turbulence before the air outlet 21.

Claims

Claims

1. Air purification device (1), characterized in that it comprises a cotton pad (3) receiving at least one light guide (5), the cotton pad (3) being formed of photocatalyst fibers, the light guide (5) being configured to be supplied with light by a light source (9), and the light guide (5) having lateral light diffusion means (8) in order to diffuse light laterally relative to the direction of movement of the light in the light guide (5).

2. An air purification device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the cotton pad (3) receives several light guides (5).

3. An air purification device (1) according to claim 2, wherein a first of the light guides (5) passes through the cotton pad (3), a second of the light guides (5) is arranged against an outer surface of the cotton pad (3), and preferably a third of the light guides (5) is arranged against another surface of the cotton pad (3) opposite the outer surface.

4. An air purification device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the light guide (5) comprises at least one optical fiber.

5. Air purification device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, which further comprises means (13) for holding the cotton pad (3) in position, the means (13) for holding in position being preferably formed by a cartridge.

6. An air purification device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the photocatalyst fibers have a smallest dimension of at least 10 micrometers.

7. An air purification device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the photocatalyst is a semiconductor material.

8. An air purification device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the photocatalyst comprises at least one oxide selected from the group consisting of TiO2, ZnO, CeO2.

9. An air purification device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the photocatalyst comprises at least partially crystalline TiO2, preferably predominantly crystalline TiO2.

10. Air purification device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, which comprises several cotton pads (3) arranged one above the other, each cotton pad (3) receiving at least one light guide (5), each cotton pad (3) being formed of photocatalyst fibers.

11. An air purification device (1) according to claim 10, wherein the cotton pads (3) are spaced apart by at least a predetermined value such that air to be purified circulates between the cotton pads (3), preferably the predetermined value being greater than or equal to 1 millimeter, more preferably greater than or equal to 5 millimeters.

12. An air purification device (1) according to claim 10, wherein the cotton pads (3) are directly superimposed on each other.

13. Air treatment apparatus (15) comprising: - an air circulation duct (17) between an air inlet (19) and an air outlet (21), - a light source (9), and - an air purification device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12 arranged in the air duct (17), wherein the light guide (5) is supplied with light by the light source (9).

14. An air treatment apparatus (15) according to claim 13, which is a domestic appliance comprising a casing (23) forming the outer casing of the air treatment apparatus (15).

15. An air treatment apparatus (15) according to any one of claims 13 to 14, wherein the light source (9) is a UV light source.

16. An air treatment apparatus (15) according to any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein the light source (9) comprises an LED.

17. Air treatment apparatus (15) according to any one of claims 13 to 16, which further comprises: - an analyzer (27) of volatile organic compounds and - an automatic adjustment member (29), which is configured to automatically adjust, as a function of the content of volatile organic compounds analyzed by the analyzer (27), the speed of the air entering the air inlet (19) and / or the light intensity of the light source

18. (9). Air treatment apparatus (15) according to any one of claims 13 to 17, wherein each cotton pad (3) is arranged parallel to the air flow in the air circulation duct (17).

19. An air treatment apparatus (15) according to any one of claims 13 to 17, wherein each wadding pad (3) is arranged transversely to the air flow in the air circulation duct (17).

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