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International Journal of Advanced Engineering Application

ISSN: 3048-6807

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Comparative Analysis of Plant-Based and Electrostatic Precipitation Methods for Indoor Particulate

Author(s):Divish Bhagtani¹, Hitendra Vaishnav²

Affiliation: 1Aditya Birla World Academy

Page No: 62-77

Volume issue & Publishing Year: Volume 2 Issue 12 , Dec-2025

Journal: International Journal of Advanced Engineering Application (IJAEA)

ISSN NO: 3048-6807

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17950288

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Abstract:
Particulate matter (PM2.5) plays a serious role in health risks both indoors and outdoors, especially in low-income households with limited access to traditional air purification systems. This study compares and evaluates the PM2.5 removal efficiency of two plants with air purifying capabilities- sunflower (Helianthus annuus) and peace lily (Spathiphyllum spp.) with a 3D printed electrostatic precipitator (ESP) having similar size and power demand. All experiments were executed in a controlled pollution chamber to provide a quantifiable time-dependent removal profile at a standardized PM2.5 load. Simultaneously the ESP was scrutinized each session for several performance aspects in energy consumption, noise, and maintenance in contrast to the passive and low-energy nature of plant use. Results concluded that plants indeed provided low-level efficacy at removals over sustained amounts of time, while the ESP proved to be more aiding in higher efficacy in shorter amounts of time, often requiring maintenance and periodic cleaning. Social-acceptance and sustainability were observed and discussed, favoring the cultural value of plants against the more technical efficacy of the ESP. Regarding relative performance, cost, and feasibility beginning with the recommendation of adoption of the plants for low maintenance and socially acceptable air quality, while the ESP could be used as a primary source for instant pm2.5 elimination. This integrated assessment offers a platform for developing access to a sustainable and affordable intervention on indoor air-quality issues faced by at-risk communities.

Keywords: PM2.5, Indoor air purification, sunflower, ESP Precipitator, low-cost.

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