PureDae

PureDae Logo
PureDae Product Blueprint
PureDae Product Motherboard
Air Pollutants Under the Microscope
Active Carbon Filter
Coarse Filter
EPA-13 Filter

Inspiration

Inspired by the escalating concerns of air pollution and its adverse effects on both the environment and human health, PureDae was conceived to offer a sustainable and practical solution. According to the World Health Organization, air pollution causes 4.2 million deaths annually, with pollutants such as nitrogen dioxide (NO2), carbon monoxide (CO), and particulate matter (PM2.5) contributing significantly to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Our team recognized the urgent need for a system that could monitor and improve air quality in real-time, particularly in areas with heavy traffic. We aimed to create an innovative and cost-effective air filtration system that combines advanced technology and environmental expertise to make a positive impact on public health and the environment.

What it Does

PureDae is a groundbreaking air filtration system designed to improve air quality in areas with heavy traffic. The system includes an external filtration unit placed at strategic points such as traffic intersections and red lights. Utilizing a combination of sensors, including PM2.5 and wind sensors, the system dynamically adjusts fan speeds to optimize energy efficiency and filtration effectiveness. PureDae employs a four-stage filtration process: a Coarse Filter for large particles, an Activated Carbon Filter for gaseous pollutants, an EPA 13 Filter for ultrafine particles, and an innovative Bio Filter that uses sponge gourd, algae strains, and fungal mycelium to capture and remove gases. The system also features pressure probes to monitor filter blockages and a user interface for managing the entire system.

How We Built It

To develop PureDae, we conducted comprehensive research on air pollution and existing filtration solutions. Collaborating with universities in Turkey and the United States, and the Ministry of Environment in Turkey and Belgium, we designed a prototype that integrates advanced sensor technology and a multi-stage filtration process. The PM2.5 sensor detects microplastics and fine particulate matter, while the wind sensor monitors air flow patterns. Data from these sensors is processed by the system’s motherboard to adjust the radian fan's speed, ensuring optimal air circulation and filtration. We also developed a biofilter using sustainable materials like sponge gourd, algae, and fungal mycelium, enhancing the system’s efficiency and environmental impact.

Challenges We Ran Into

One of the main challenges was ensuring the accuracy and sensitivity of the PM2.5 sensors in detecting microplastics and other fine particles. Another challenge was designing a biofilter that could effectively capture and neutralize gaseous pollutants while being sustainable and cost-effective. Integrating the various sensors and ensuring the system’s energy efficiency also posed technical difficulties. Additionally, acquiring funding and resources for the pilot production and testing phase required extensive collaboration and negotiation with various stakeholders.

Accomplishments That We're Proud Of

We are proud to have developed an innovative and effective air filtration system that addresses a critical environmental issue. Our biofilter design, which combines natural and technological elements, has proven to be a sustainable and efficient solution. We successfully conducted air quality tests in collaboration with Dicle University and other institutions. We negotiated with major companies like Arçelik and Vestel, and engaged with governmental bodies such as the Ministry of Environment and Urbanization in Turkey and Belgium. We have also secured semi-fund agreements with Belgium's Ministry of Environment and Urbanization through Turkey’s EU department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. These partnerships have laid a strong foundation for the future development and deployment of PureDae. Additionally, we have created a user-friendly interface that allows for real-time monitoring and management of the system.

What We Learned

Through this project, we gained valuable insights into air pollution dynamics and advanced filtration technologies. We learned the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, involving experts from environmental engineering, chemistry, and data science. The project enhanced our skills in sensor technology, data analysis, and sustainable design. We also realized the significance of stakeholder engagement and the need for innovative problem-solving to address complex environmental challenges.

What's Next for PureDae

Looking ahead, we plan to refine and enhance PureDae by incorporating more advanced sensors and expanding the biofilter’s capabilities. We aim to conduct large-scale pilot tests and gather more data to further improve the system’s efficiency and effectiveness. Our goal is to secure partnerships with government agencies, environmental organizations, and private companies to deploy PureDae in urban areas worldwide. We also plan to explore additional applications of our biofilter technology in other sectors, contributing to a cleaner and healthier environment.