Photocatalyst Filters With Embedded Al or Ag Nanoparticles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ceramic catalyst filters face limitations in effectively utilizing light energy due to their high aspect ratio, leading to reduced photocatalyst efficiency in removing volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
Innovation Solution
A photocatalyst is developed with a support made of a metal compound, such as TiO2, WO3, or ZnO2, embedded with metal nanoparticles of aluminum (Al) or silver (Ag), which enhances light absorption and activation, improving VOC removal efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a high aspect ratio ceramic catalyst filter is used, then fine dust and VOCs can be removed simultaneously, but the inner area of the channel does not receive sufficient light energy, deteriorating photocatalyst efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a composite structure combining TiO2 photocatalyst with metal nanoparticles (Al or Ag) embedded within it. This composite material enhances light absorption through localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) effects, allowing the photocatalyst to function effectively even in regions with limited direct light exposure in high aspect ratio filters.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent modifies the optical parameters of the photocatalyst by embedding metal nanoparticles with specific properties. The nanoparticles have oxidation number 0 and diameters of 10-100 nm, creating LSPR effects at specific wavelengths (350-400 nm for refractive index 1, 450-550 nm for refractive index 2) that enhance light absorption and photocatalytic activity in low-light conditions.
2Reliability
If metal nanoparticles are embedded in the photocatalyst support, then light absorption and photocatalyst activation are enhanced, but the complexity of the catalyst structure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by embedding metal nanoparticles at specific locations within the TiO2 support structure. The nanoparticles are positioned to maximize LSPR effects and light absorption while maintaining the overall structural integrity and simplicity of the filter. This localized enhancement provides high photocatalyst activation without requiring complex overall restructuring.
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 embedded metal nanoparticles in the photocatalyst enhance light absorption, leading to improved photocatalyst activation and increased efficiency in removing VOCs, thus overcoming the limitations of existing ceramic catalyst filters.
Implementation Method 1
a localized surface plasmon resonance ("LSPR") effect may occur at a wavelength of about 350 nanometers (nm) to about 400 nm
Implementation Method 2
the photocatalyst may be configured to decompose and remove gaseous volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a catalyst filter including: a filter frame defining a plurality of first recesses therein; and a photocatalyst provided in each of the plurality of first recesses, where the photocatalyst includes a support including a metal compound and metal nanoparticles including aluminum (Al) or silver (Ag), and the metal nanoparticle is embedded in the support.