Introduction
An air scrubber is a device that removes contaminants from air. Common airborne contaminants include dust, gases and chemicals. Air scrubbers work by using air pressure to force air through a substance that filters out and traps particles, releasing purified air in the process. They are usually used to circulate and clean all the air in a confined area. By filtering contaminants out of air, they provide several health and safety benefits. The complexity of the scrubber depends on the nature of contaminants and the area to be cleaned. A simple air scrubber should be sufficient for home use.
Materials Required
Duct tape
Duct connector
Ventilation end cap
Activated carbon filter
Ventilated mesh screen/aluminium screen
Scissors
Plastic ties
Method:
Step 1
Cut the mesh/aluminium screen so that it is a few inches longer than the carbon filter. The carbon filter should be able to fit in the middle, with a few inches available on either side to accommodate the duct caps and tape.
Step 2
Create a sturdy cylinder by wrapping around a few layers of the mesh/aluminium screen and securing with duct tape or plastic ties. The carbon filter will be mounted on this, so ensure that you create a cylinder that is capable of supporting the weight of the filter, duct caps and duct tape without collapsing. The number of layers will depend on the stiffness of the mesh. For example, chicken wire will be stiffer than aluminium screen so fewer layers will be required to make a sturdy cylinder. The size of your cylinder will depend on the size of the connectors to which it will be attached.
Step 3
Connect the duct connector to one end of the cylinder, securing with duct tape.
Step 4
Connect the ventilation end-cap to the other end of the cylinder, securing with duct tape.
Step 5
Wrap the carbon filter around the middle of the mesh cylinder. Secure with duct tape, if necessary.
Step 6
You should now have a completed, tubular air scrubber, with connectors for your chosen ventilation system. Attach the completed scrubber to a fan or ventilation unit, using duct tape to secure.
Tips
Use duct tape to cover any jagged edges or protrusions on your finished air scrubber, and to tidy up its general appearance.
Warnings
Follow the manufacturer’s directions for replacing the carbon filter, as well as any recommended safety precautions, as you will be dealing with contaminants.