Smart Living Wall for Air Purification and Electricity Generation

Technology Overview

Urban expansion has multifaceted impacts on the environment, society, and the economy. Increased vehicular traffic and industrial activities associated with urban growth result in elevated emissions and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), contributing significantly toair pollution and adverse effects on human health. Indoor air purification systems, therefore, have become indispensable. A system that uses plants to remove indoor volatile organic compounds, known as phytoremediation, not only offers an eco-friendly and low-maintenancesolution, but also provides a green space for residents. However, because of limited airflow inside buildings, thissystem requires a large number of plants to achieve adequate removal efficiency, potentially causing carbon dioxide buildup during nighttime hours.

Urban expansion also exerts substantial pressure on energy resources, driven by the demands associated with increased development and population growth. Given the environmental drawbacks and finite nature of fossil fuels, alternative and renewable energy sources are increasingly favored. Plant Microbial Fuel Cells (PMFCs) represents an alternative technology that harnesses living plants and soil microorganisms to generate clean electricity. The integration of phytoremediation and plant microbial fuel cells into a single system presents an innovative solution for both VOC removal and electricity generation.

Key Features & Benefits

An innovative living wall system has been designed for the dual purpose of electricity generation and air purification. The system combines two promising technologies, phytoremediation and plant microbial fuel cells, utilizing plants and soil microbes to eliminate air pollution while simultaneously generating electricity. This innovative solution holds immense potential for mitigating the energy and environmental challenges posed by urban expansion.The device comprises two main components: the livingwall dedicated to air purification and the base which generates electricity. Its design can be customized to harmonize with the aesthetics of the building.

Researcher(s)

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Paitip Thiravetyan
         Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chairat Treesubsuntorn

IP Status

Patent No. 2001004461

Contact 

Intellectual Properties and Technology Transfer Section
         Research, Innovation and Partnerships Office (RIPO)
         Tel: 02-470-9626
         Email: tto@kmutt.ac.th