Alpha-MnO2 Catalyst Structure for Ozone Decomposition

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing air-cleaning methods using photocatalysts to eliminate ethylene gas and other hazardous substances generate ozone, a harmful byproduct, which is not effectively decomposed, leading to ongoing air pollution issues.

Innovation Solution

A catalyst structure for ozone decomposition comprising a porous inorganic support with α-MnO2 catalyst, which is binder-free and includes MgO, SiO2, and Al2O3 components, is used in conjunction with a photocatalyst reactor to reduce hazardous gases and bacteria while simultaneously decomposing ozone.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If a photocatalyst with short wavelength light source (400 nm or less) is used to increase photocatalyst activity for eliminating ethylene gas and harmful bacteria, then the activity of the photocatalyst is improved, but ozone is generated as a harmful byproduct which pollutes the air

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvephotocatalyst activityVSAvoidozone generation

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the principle of converting harm into benefit by introducing a secondary catalyst (manganese dioxide or copper oxide) that specifically decomposes the harmful ozone generated by the photocatalyst. The ozone, which is a harmful byproduct of the ethylene elimination process, is converted into beneficial oxygen through catalytic decomposition, thereby eliminating the pollution problem while maintaining the high productivity of the photocatalyst system

Inventive Principle:

Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

2Ease of operation

If a photocatalyst reactor is used to eliminate hazardous gases and bacteria, then air purification is improved, but ozone accumulates in the air causing ongoing pollution

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveair purification capabilityVSAvoidozone accumulation

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges two catalytic functions into a single integrated system: the photocatalyst for eliminating ethylene gas and bacteria, and the secondary catalyst (manganese dioxide or copper oxide) for decomposing ozone. By combining these functions in one air-cleaning device, the system achieves comprehensive air purification that eliminates both the target pollutants and the harmful ozone byproduct, preventing ozone accumulation while maintaining ease of operation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The catalyst structure effectively decomposes ozone generated during the process of eliminating hazardous gases like ethylene and bacteria, allowing for continuous air purification without filter replacement, improving air quality by reducing harmful substances.

Implementation Method 1

an α-MnO2 catalyst on at least a portion of inner pores and a surface of the support

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectCatalysis: Catalysis

Implementation Method 2

a support including a porous inorganic material

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectAdsorption: Adsorption

Data Source

PatentUS11484621B2Catalyst structure for ozone decomposition

Publication Date: 2022.11.01 PURE SPACE INC

AI summary

Provided are a catalyst structure for ozone decomposition including a support containing a porous inorganic material, and an α-MnO2 catalyst located on at least a portion of inner pores and a surface of the support, an air-cleaning method using the same, and an air-cleaning device and an air-cleaning system each including the catalyst structure for ozone decomposition.