VATIS UPDATE Article

Biotechnology expert Raul Pineda Olmedo, of the National University of Mexico (UNAM), has designed a biofilter that uses microorganisms living in the shell of the peanut, in order to clean the air of pollutants such as methanol and solvents used in the industry. The researcher noted that microorganisms grow naturally on peanut shell, which can be used to clean the air. Furthermore, in Mexico this material is generated in large amounts and is considered a worthless agricultural residue.

The idea is a prototype filter with peanut shells, which cultivates the microorganisms to degrade toxic pollutants into carbon dioxide (CO2) and water, thereby achieving clean air. “The peanut shell is special for these applications because it is naturally hollow and has an area of contact with air, which favors the development of microorganisms,” said Pineda Olmedo. He also said it has been observed that this organic material can be applied to biotechnology as biological filters similar to those used by cars, but instead of stopping dust it can degrade the contaminants.

Olmedo Pineda development focuses on solving the problem of air pollution in companies dedicated to handling inks or solvents, which have a contaminated workplace. The prototype is similar to a bell or kitchen extractor, but it not only absorbs and stores polluting vapors, it degrades and purifies the air. The design consists of a filter made with peanut shells containing microorganisms, which purify the air. For optimum development it should be in a temperature controlled environment.