Ion thruster air purification device using generated ozone for decomposition of volatile organic compounds

Abstract

The invention relates to a compact air purification device based on ion thruster technology During operation, the ion thruster generates ozone (O₃) as a byproduct of oxygen ionization. This ozone is directed into a reaction chamber where it oxidizes volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other airborne pollutants. The system eliminates the need for external fans or filters by using the natural airflow created by the thruster itself. Key components include an ionization chamber, a grounded copper ring, a high-voltage accelerator grid, and a downstream reaction zone. The device operates effectively in low-humidity environments, where ozone remains stable and highly reactive. This integration of aerospace propulsion and environmental chemistry offers a novel, energy-efficient solution for air treatment in enclosed or emergency settings. The invention is suitable for use in homes, laboratories, industrial spaces, and mobile purification units.

Description

[0001] Ion Thruster Air Purification Device Using Generated Ozone for Decomposition of Volatile Organic Compounds

[0002] Field of the Invention

[0003] The present invention falls within the field of environmental engineering, with a particular focus on air purification technologies. It introduces a novel application of ion propulsion systems — commonly used in aerospace engineering — to treat polluted air. More specifically, the invention utilizes the natural byproduct of ion thruster operation, ozone gas, to oxidize and neutralize harmful airborne compounds. This system is designed to remove volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are common indoor and industrial air pollutants. VOCs are known to cause health problems and contribute to poor air quality [1], The invention uses the high reactivity of ozone, generated inside the ion thruster, to break down these compounds into less harmful substances. Unlike traditional air purifiers that rely on mechanical fans or chemical filters, this device uses the airflow naturally created by the ion thruster itself. This eliminates the need for external air circulation systems, making the design compact, energy-efficient, and suitable for continuous operation. The invention combines principles from aerospace propulsion, plasma physics, and environmental chemistry to create a multifunctional system that can be used in homes, laboratories, industrial spaces, or emergencies where clean air is needed.

[0004] Background of the Invention

[0005] Air pollution caused by VOCs is a major environmental and public health concern [2, 3], VOCs are released from industrial processes, vehicle emissions, household products, and even natural sources [4], These compounds are chemically stable, often toxic, and difficult to remove using conventional filtration systems [5, 6], Traditional air purifiers rely on mechanical filters, activated carbon, or chemical reagents, which may be effective for particulate matter but have limited impact on gaseous pollutants like VOCs [7], Moreover, these systems require regular maintenance, replacement parts, and external power sources, making them less suitable for mobile or emergency applications. Ozone (O3) is a highly reactive molecule known for its strong oxidizing properties [8], It can break down complex organic compounds into simpler, less harmful substances through oxidation reactions [9], For example, ozone reacts with VOCs such as formaldehyde, benzene, and toluene, converting them into carbon dioxide, water vapor, and other non-toxic byproducts [10, 11], This makes ozone a powerful tool for air purification, especially in environments where chemical filters are impractical. In dry air environments, the chemical behavior of ozone becomes even more pronounced. Without significant humidity, ozone does not readily react with water molecules, allowing it to remain stable for longer periods and travel further within the air stream

[0012] . This extended presence increases its chances of encountering and oxidizing airborne pollutants. The primary mechanism of ozone oxidation involves electrophilic attack on double bonds and functional groups present in organic compounds

[0013] , For instance, ozone reacts with alkenes through a process known as ozonolysis, where the double bond is cleaved and converted into aldehydes, ketones, or carboxylic acids

[0014] , This reaction can be represented as:

[0006] RiCH = CHR2+ O3RiCHO + R2CH0

[0007] In low-humidity conditions, the absence of competing reactions with water vapor allows ozone to selectively target VOCs and other reactive organic species. This enhances the efficiency of air purification, especially in enclosed or controlled environments such as laboratories, clean rooms, or emergency shelters. Moreover, the lack of moisture reduces the formation of secondary byproducts like hydroxyl radicals, which can complicate reaction pathways. As a result, the oxidation process remains cleaner and more predictable, making ozone an ideal agent for targeted removal of harmful compounds in dry air systems. This property is particularly beneficial in the proposed invention, where the ion thruster generates ozone and directs it into a reaction chamber

[0015] , The dry air conditions within the device ensure that ozone remains active long enough to interact with pollutants, maximizing the purification effect without the need for additional reagents or humidification systems. In conventional ozone generators, ozone is produced by applying high voltage across a dielectric barrier or through ultraviolet (UV) radiation. These systems are often bulky, energy-intensive, and require separate components such as fans, transformers, and control units. However, ion thrusters — originally developed for spacecraft propulsion — offer a unique opportunity to generate ozone as a natural byproduct of their operation. An ion thruster works by ionizing a neutral gas (typically xenon or air) using an electric field

[0016] , In the presence of oxygen molecules (O2), the high-energy electrons generated in the discharge chamber collide with O2molecules, breaking them apart into atomic oxygen (O). These oxygen atoms then recombine with O2to form ozone (O3) through the following reaction:

[0008] 02+ e- -> 20 (Electron impact dissociation)

[0009] 0 + 02— > 03(Ozone formation)

[0010] This process occurs continuously as long as the ion thruster is active and oxygen is present in the intake air. The ozone produced is immediately available for chemical reactions with airborne pollutants. In the proposed invention, the ozone-rich air is directed into a reaction chamber located directly after the ionization zone. This chamber is designed to maximize contact between ozone molecules and VOCs, allowing oxidation reactions to occur efficiently. Unlike traditional systems, the airflow required for purification is generated naturally by the ion thruster itself. As ions are accelerated and expelled from the thruster, they create a pressure differential that draws ambient air into the system. This eliminates the need for mechanical fans or pumps, reducing energy consumption and simplifying the design.

[0011] Summary of the Invention

[0012] The present invention introduces a novel air purification device based on the operation of an ion thruster. Unlike conventional air purifiers that rely on mechanical filters or chemical reagents, this system utilizes the natural byproducts of ion propulsion — specifically ozone gas — to oxidize and neutralize airborne pollutants such as VOCs. During the operation of the ion thruster, oxygen molecules in the air are exposed to high-energy electrons within the discharge chamber. These electrons break the oxygen molecules into atomic oxygen, which then recombines to form O3. The generated ozone is a powerful oxidizing agent capable of breaking down complex organic compounds into harmless substances like carbon dioxide and water vapor. The invention includes a reaction chamber positioned immediately after the ionization zone, where the ozone-rich air interacts with VOCs and other pollutants. This chamber is designed to maximize contact time and reaction efficiency, even in low- humidity environments where ozone remains stable and highly reactive. A key advantage of this system is its ability to generate airflow without the need for external fans. The ion thruster naturally draws air into the device and expels it after treatment, making the system compact, energy-efficient, and suitable for continuous operation. This eliminates the need for moving mechanical parts, reducing maintenance and improving reliability. By combining aerospace propulsion technology with environmental engineering principles, the invention offers a multifunctional solution for air purification. It is particularly useful in enclosed spaces, emergency shelters, laboratories, and industrial settings where clean air is essential and conventional systems may be impractical.

[0013] Description

[0014] The invention consists of a compact air purification device that operates based on the principles of ion propulsion. The system is designed to treat polluted air by generating O3during the operation of an ion thruster and using it to oxidize VOCs and other harmful airborne substances. The main components of the device include:

[0015] • Ionization Chamber: A cylindrical or rectangular enclosure where air enters and is exposed to a high-voltage electric field. This chamber contains electrodes that generate free electrons capable of ionizing oxygen molecules.

[0016] • Accelerator Grid: Positioned near the entrance of the ionization chamber, this grid applies a high-voltage DC field to accelerate ions and facilitate the formation of ozone. It is connected to a high-voltage power supply (typically 1000- 3000 V).

[0017] • Copper Ring: Located after the ionization zone, this ring helps stabilize the electric field and guide the flow of charged particles. It is typically connected to ground potential to serve as a reference electrode.

[0018] • Reaction Chamber: Immediately following the copper ring, this chamber is designed to maximize contact between ozone molecules and airborne pollutants. It may contain baffles or flow guides to increase residence time and reaction efficiency.

[0019] • Air Intake and Outlet: Ambient air enters the system naturally due to the pressure differential created by the ion thruster. Treated air exits from the opposite side, carrying fewer pollutants and reduced VOC concentrations.

[0020] When the device is powered on, the ionization chamber generates a stream of high-energy electrons. These electrons collide with O2in the air, breaking them into atomic oxygen. The atomic oxygen then reacts with remaining O2to form O3. The ozone-rich air is then directed into the reaction chamber, where it encounters VOCs such as formaldehyde, benzene, and toluene. Ozone reacts with these compounds through electrophilic attack and ozonolysis, converting them into carbon dioxide, water vapor, and other non-toxic byproducts. In dry air environments, ozone remains stable for longer periods, enhancing its ability to oxidize pollutants without interference from water vapor. This makes the system particularly effective in enclosed spaces, laboratories, and industrial settings. The device can be scaled for different environments, from small rooms to industrial halls. It may also be integrated into existing ventilation systems or used as a standalone unit in emergency shelters, clean rooms, or mobile purification stations.

[0021] Brief Description of Drawings

[0022] [Fig 1]: Schematic of ion thruster air purification device.

[0023] The figure I lustrates the schematic structure of the ion thruster-based air purification device. The diagram shows the main components of the system, including the ionization chamber, the copper ring, the accelerator grid, and the reaction chamber. In this figure, ambient air enters the device from one side and passes through the ionization zone, where oxygen molecules are split by high-energy electrons. The copper ring helps stabilize the electric field and guide the flow of charged particles. The accelerator grid applies a high-voltage electric field to increase ion velocity and generate ozone as a byproduct. Immediately after the accelerator grid, the ozone-rich air enters the reaction chamber, where it interacts with VOCs present in the air. The oxidizing reactions occur in this chamber, leading to the breakdown of harmful compounds into safer byproducts. The treated air then exits the system from the opposite side. Figure 1 provides a simplified visual representation of the device’s internal structure and airflow path, highlighting the integration of propulsion and purification functions.

[0024] References:

[0025] 1. Maung, T.Z., et al., Indoor air pollution and the health of vulnerable groups: a systematic review focused on particulate matter (PM), volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and their effects on children and people with pre-existing lung disease. International journal of environmental research public health, 2022. 19(14): p. 8752.

[0026] 2. Manisalidis, I., et al., Environmental and health impacts of air pollution: a review. 2020. 8: p. 14.

[0027] 3. Alexandrine, K., R. Zalakeviciute, and F. Viteri, Seasonal variation of the criteria air pollutants concentration in an urban area of a high-altitude city. International Journal of Environmental Science Technology, 2021. 18(5): p. 1167- 1180.

[0028] 4. Zhou, X., et al., Environmental and human health impacts of volatile organic compounds: A perspective review. Chemosphere, 2023. 313: p. 137489.

[0029] 5. Meena, M., P. Sonigra, and G. Yadav, Biological-based methods for the removal of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and heavy metals. Environmental Science Pollution Research, 2021. 28(3): p. 2485-2508.

[0030] 6. Li, S., et al., Research status of volatile organic compound (VOC) removal technology and prospect of new strategies: a review. Environmental Science: Processes Impacts, 2023. 25(4): p. 727-740.

[0031] 7. Mata, T.M., et al., Indoor air quality: a review of cleaning technologies. Environments, 2022. 9(9): p. 118.

[0032] 8. Pratiwi, W.Z., H. Hadiyanto, and W. Widayat. Ozone-based Advanced Oxidation Process for pharmaceutical contamination in wastewater: A review, in E3S Web of Conferences. 2025. EDP Sciences.

[0033] 9. Mahmoodi, M. and E. Pishbin, Ozone-based advanced oxidation processes in water treatment: Recent advances, challenges, and perspective. Environmental Science Pollution Research, 2025. 32(7): p. 3531-3570. 10. Gounden, A.N., Ozone Initiated Oxidation of Organic Pollutants, M- xylene and 2-chloroethanol. 2010, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Westville.

[0034] 11. Grima, N., Kinetic and mass transfer studies of ozone degradation of organics in liquid / gas-ozone and liquid / solid-ozone systems, in School of Engineering, Design and Technology. 2009, University of Bradford: West Yorkshire, UK.

[0035] 12. Weschler, C.J., Ozone in indoor environments: concentration and chemistry. Indoor Air 2000. 10: p. 269-288.

[0036] 13. Buszek, R.J., J.S. Francisco, and J.M. Anglada, Water effects on atmospheric reactions. International Reviews in Physical Chemistry, 2011. 30(3): p. 335-369.

[0037] 14. Becker, K., J. Bechara, and K. Brockmann, Studies on the formation of H2O2 in the ozonolysis of alkenes. Atmospheric Environment. Part A. General Topics, 1993. 27(1): p. 57-61.

[0038] 15. Mukherjee, S., Low voltage miniaturized ion thrusters, in Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering. 2024, McGill University: Montreal, Canada.

[0039] 16. Collingwood, C., Investigation of a miniature differential ion thruster, in School of Engineering Sciences. 2011, University of Southampton: University of Southampton.

Claims

Claims1. An air purification device comprising an ion thruster configured to generate O3during operation, wherein the ozone is used to oxidize VOCs present in ambient indoor air.

2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the ion thruster includes an ionization chamber, a grounded copper ring, and a high-voltage accelerator grid.

3. The device of claim 1 , wherein the ozone is produced by electron impact dissociation of oxygen molecules followed by recombination into ozone, without the use of external ozone generators.

4. The device of claim 1 , further comprising a reaction chamber positioned downstream of the ion thruster, configured to facilitate chemical reactions between ozone and airborne pollutants.

5. The device of claim 4, wherein the reaction chamber is designed to operate effectively in low-humidity environments, enhancing ozone stability and oxidation efficiency.

6. The device of claim 1 , wherein airflow is generated solely by the operation of the ion thruster, eliminating the need for mechanical fans or pumps.

7. The device of claim 1 , wherein the treated air exiting the system contains reduced concentrations of VOCs and other harmful compounds, as verified by chemical analysis.

8. The device of claim 1 , wherein the system is compact, energy-efficient, and suitable for use in enclosed spaces, laboratories, industrial facilities, and emergency shelters.

9. A method of purifying air comprising the steps of: (a) drawing ambient air into an ion thruster; (b) generating ozone through ionization of oxygen; (c) directing ozone-rich air into a reaction chamber; and (d) oxidizing VOCs and other pollutants into non-toxic byproducts.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein the ion thruster operates continuouslytain airflow and ozone production without external mechanical assistance.

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