Title : Design and optimization of a thermal air sterilizer prototype for airborne pathogen deactivation: A CFD approach
Abstract:
Airborne pathogens, such as Mycobacterium tuberculosis and SARS-CoV-2, pose significant health risks due to their ability to remain suspended in air for extended periods. Traditional air sterilization technologies, such as HEPA filters and UV light, exhibit limitations in deactivating pathogens or ensuring safety and cost-efficiency. This study presents the development and optimization of a thermal air sterilizer using computational fluid dynamics (CFD). The prototype incorporates dry heat sterilization with a recycling conduit and adjustable temperature settings to target a wide range of pathogens. Simulations were conducted to analyse airflow, temperature distribution, and particle residence time using the COMSOL Multiphysics platform. Extended surface grids, static pressure head variations, and circular geometries were evaluated to enhance the residence time and efficiency of microbial deactivation. Results show that circular grid designs and a static pressure head of 15 Pa provide optimal residence time and particle vaporization, achieving nearly 100% efficiency. The proposed system demonstrates a promising solution for mitigating airborne health risks in high-risk and confined environments.
