Multi-Layered Exhaust Gas Filter System: A Carbon

Dioxide Reductor for Public Utility Vehicles

Summary

Carbon dioxide (CO2) plays a vital role in the environment, but excessive
levels can pose significant health risks, particularly to vulnerable populations
such as children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions. Prolonged
exposure to high concentrations of CO2 has been linked to respiratory illnesses
like asthma, lung infections, and even cancer (Liu et al., 2019). To mitigate these
risks, technologies have been developed to reduce CO2 emissions, primarily
through vehicle exhaust systems. The research of Telen et al., 2023, addresses
the current problem of CO2 emissions due to increased numbers of jeepneys, a
typical mode of public transportation in the Philippines. However, a gap remains
in addressing CO2 emissions in roadside areas and traffic-heavy locations,
particularly for older public utility vehicles in cities like Valencia, where improved
exhaust systems are limited to newer cars.

As of 2023, there were 4.9 million registered vehicles with 60% of the
population relying on PUVs as their mode of transportation. Regardless of the
growing convenience that PUVs offer, there is an alarming presence of air
pollution, as it stages to be one of the greatest contributors to the specified
pollution making it challenging for individuals with respiratory issues to commute
(Madueño et al., 2019).

This study seeks to develop innovative methods for improving air quality
in urban areas, benefiting vehicle operators and vulnerable populations by
providing a convenient pollution control solution. To raise these concerns the
researchers aims to develop a multi-layered exhaust gas system that captures
carbon emissions from PUV, converting it into ink for refillable markers while
simultaneously reducing air pollution.
 Background and Problem

The Philippines is one of the top countries that utilize PUVs like Jeepneys,
buses, and tricycles that use gasoline to operate producing substantial CO2
emissions. Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a major greenhouse gas released from
vehicle exhaust, contributing to global warming and health effects, including
respiratory illnesses and cardiovascular problems. The Philippines, like many
developing nations, struggles with air pollution. Specifically, Valencia City,
Bukidnon, experiences a high concentration of PUVs, resulting in elevated CO2
emissions and compromised air quality because of a present 4.9 million
registered vehicles (Madueño et al., 2019). This negatively impacts the health of
residents, particularly vulnerable groups like children, the elderly, and individuals
with pre-existing respiratory conditions. Air pollution is a global issue, particularly
in urban areas with high vehicular traffic. Public utility vehicles (PUVs) like
jeepneys, buses, and tricycles, often contribute to air pollution due to their
reliance on fossil fuels and outdated emission control technologies. In a research
study, there is an increasing alarm for the harm that air pollution from carbon
emissions can cause

to health.

As of 2023, there were 4.9 million registered vehicles with 60% of the
population relying on PUVs as their mode of transportation. Regardless of the
growing convenience that PUVs offer, there is an alarming presence of air
pollution, as it stages to be one of the greatest contributors to the specified
pollution making it challenging for individuals with respiratory issues to commute
(Madueño et al., 2019).

This study aims to address this issue by exploring innovative methods to

improve air quality and reduce carbon emissions in urban areas Vehicle
operators benefit from this innovation as it provides a more convenient solution
for controlling their vehicle’s pollution. Vulnerable groups, such as children, the
elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, will also experience health
improvements due to reduced exposure to toxic emissions.

Thus, research focuses on the development of a new product that can

capture and repurpose CO2 from the air, turning harmful pollutants into useful
materials such as ink. By trapping CO2, this product has the potential to
significantly decrease pollution and CO2 levels in heavily trafficked areas,
providing cleaner air for city residents while contributing to efforts to reduce
overall carbon emissions.

Proposed Solution

There are about 1.475 billion vehicles around the world (Bonnici, 2024)
that contribute 10% of the global CO2 emission (Tiseo, 2023). Despite the
existence of the catalytic converter, a device designed to reduce harmful
emissions from vehicles, unfortunately, these devices can only be found on new
vehicles. When in reality there are still a lot of people who use old vehicles due to
the price, as these types of vehicles are more affordable than newer models that
have advanced emission-reducing technology.

The increasing issue of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions in the Philippines,

primarily driven by public utility vehicles (PUVs) like jeepneys and buses,
requires innovative solutions. The goal of this proposed solution is to develop a
device that effectively reduces emissions from older models of vehicles, this
device would help in lowering the overall emissions from the global vehicle fleet,
and this offers a practical and innovative approach towards combating air
pollution. This device uses direct air capture (DAC) techniques to remove CO₂
from the atmosphere at traffic crossroads. The CO2 collected by the device will
be treated by absorbents and will be used in ink manufacturing. The resulting ink,
made from carbon extracted directly from the air, will be used in local printing
applications.
 This system aims to address both air pollution and promote
environmentally friendly practices in ink production. The first step in realizing this
solution is the design and testing of specialized filters suited to PUVs, which will
ensure their efficiency in densely populated, high-traffic areas where emissions
are most concentrated. This involves thorough research and trials to guarantee
that the filters are durable and capable of effectively reducing CO2 output in
urban environments. Partnerships with local governments and environmental
organizations will be essential to fund and support the initiative.

This research project not only addresses urgent air quality concerns, but it
also generates employment opportunities in the installation, maintenance, and
ink production industries. These collaborations can help secure resources, create
a network of stakeholders committed to reducing emissions, and promote the use
of the sustainable ink produced by the filter systems. Additionally, public
awareness campaigns should be launched to educate citizens about the
environmental benefits of using products made from captured emissions. This
outreach can encourage consumers and businesses to adopt eco-friendly
practices, further integrating sustainability into everyday life. To ensure long-term
success, advocacy for regulatory policies that incentivize the adoption of such
technology in public transportation is crucial. Government support in the form of
tax breaks or subsidies for transport operators using these filters can accelerate
the transition to greener practices.

At the end of the science innovation project, the researchers should be

able to design, develop multi-layered exhaust gas filter system as carbon dioxide
reductor for public utility vehicles and provide solution to the increasing air
pollution. By implementing this multi-faceted approach, Valencia City, Bukidnon
can reduce its CO2 emissions while fostering sustainable industries like eco-
friendly ink production. This solution not only improves air quality but also
promotes environmental responsibility, and public health by way of harmful
emissions reduction in urban areas.
 Methods

Figure 1. Materials used in making the prototype

A B C D

A.) PVC Pipe, B) Battery, C) Propeller, D) Air filter, E) Hose

PVC pipes are lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and have a lifespan of over

100 years, making them ideal for construction making them a popular choice in
construction and infrastructure projects. The battery and powering electrical
systems maintains the voltage. Propellers convert rotational motion into thrust to
propel vehicles. Air filters remove contaminants from air to improve quality and
protect engine components, while air carbon filters eliminate odors and harmful
gases. Hose serves as the connector of each stages that allows the
transportation of the polluted air into the system.
 Design and Planning
START

Figure 2. Flowchart of the Multi-Layered Exhaust Gas Filter System

END

Purchasing of
materials

Deployment and
Development of the documentation
Prototype

Developments and
Figure 3. Design of the Multi-Layered Exhaust Gas Filter System
 This study entitled “Multi-Layered Exhaust Gas Filter System: A Carbon
Dioxide Reductor for Public Utility Vehicles” was developed a device that
effectively reduces emissions from older models of vehicles, this device would
help in lowering the overall emissions from the global vehicle fleet, and this offers
a practical and innovative approach towards combating air pollution. This device
uses direct air capture (DAC) techniques to remove CO₂ from the atmosphere at
traffic crossroads.

As shown in figure 3, the conceptualization of the Multi-Layered Exhaust Gas

Filter System then began detailing the design where the materials include , PVC
Pipe, Alternator Dynamo, Propeller, Air Filter, Air Carbon Filter, Capacitor, Relay
Modules , Tip31 Transistor, Resistor, Echo Energy Motor, 9V Cap, Pcb Board and
IR Sensor Module

Risk and Safety Management

The researchers will be able to invent and innovate as a result of their

instructions. The examination will be carried out with proper handling of the
device’s electrical components are as follows:

1. Electrical Safety: Use insulated wires to prevent shocks. Make sure all
electrical parts are waterproof. Avoid using equipment with frayed wires,
broken plugs, or damaged insulation when dealing with electricity.

2. Structural Integrity: Assemble all parts securely to avoid loose components.

Ensure the trap has a stable base to prevent tipping.

3. User Safety: Add a safety switch to turn off the trap easily. Provide clear
instructions for safe operation.

4. Environmental Considerations: Use non-toxic materials that are safe for

people and pets. Source materials sustainably to protect the environment.
5. Operational Monitoring: Check the trap regularly for any damage or issues.
Monitor how well the trap is working and adjust as needed.

6. Emergency Protocols: Have a quick shutdown procedure in case of

emergencies. Keep a first aid kit nearby during setup and maintenance.

Figure 4. The Procedure of the Multi-Layered Exhaust Gas Filter System: A

Carbon Dioxide Reductor for Public Utility Vehicles
The multi-layered exhaust Gas filter System was first pictured out as two ways
the first stage which collects the contaminated air from PUVs then later on
transported to the second stage where carbon dioxide trapping happens, after
enough carbon dioxide the carbon particles collected will be processed as ink

The Multi-Layered Exhaust Gas Filter System operates as follows:

1. Collects contaminated Air from PUVs
2. Trap the carbon particles
3. Convert it into ink

Cost Analysis

Item Cost (PHP)

Air filter 100
Propeller 80
Soldering lead 200
PVC 60

Filter paper 10
Total: 450
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