Korea Institute of Machinery and Materials develops air-purifying vehicle technology

Researchers at the Korea Institute of Machinery and Materials (KIMM) have developed technology that allows vehicles to act as mobile air purifiers. The system targets both ambient fine dust in the air and particulate matter generated by brake wear.

The technology consists of three main components: a grill-type collection device, a caliper-type collection device, and wireless power transfer technology for air purification while parked. The grill-type device uses electrical forces to capture fine dust entering through the vehicle's front, utilizing carbon fibers to minimize ozone production and energy consumption. Unlike traditional filter methods, this electric collection system uses natural airflow, resulting in less than a 1% impact on fuel efficiency.

To address non-exhaust emissions, the caliper-type device is installed behind the brakes to capture dust at the source using the natural electrical charge of friction-generated particles. Testing on models such as the Carnival and Sonata showed that at speeds of 30 km/h to 50 km/h, the system removes over 95% of ultrafine dust and over 99% of fine dust. One vehicle can purify approximately 1,800 cubic meters of air per hour.