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CO PURIFIER FOR POWER GENERATOR EXHAUSTS

Arduino-Based Carbon Monoxide (Co) Air Purifier with Carbon Filter and

SMS Notification for Power Generator Exhaust

Sir Jairus Matthew M. Baldesco, Zildjian D. Del Rosario,

and Vaughn Joshua N. Español

Pedro Guevara Memorial National High School

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CO PURIFIER FOR POWER GENERATOR EXHAUSTS

Dedication

The proponents of this research would like to dedicate this study to the

following individuals:

Firstly, their respective families. Namely, Mrs. Marie Conn M. Baldesco,

Mr. Mark N. Macabuhay, Connie N. Macabuhay, Maricor M. Bayani, Ruel N.

Macabuhay, Mario M. Macabuhay, Karla D. Del Rosario, Melwin S. Del Rosario,

Rina N. Español, Romeo P. Español.

To their peers;

To their teachers;

To their research advisers, Mr. Joshua Vir Aldrew A. Porca and Mr.

Marvelino A. Velarde Jr.

To the Head Teacher of the Science Department, Dr. Vilma A. Ching.

All of which has shown indubitable sustenance and inexhaustible

exhilaration to each of the proponents, allowing the efficacious conclusion of the

research study, experimentation, and defense.

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Acknowledgement

The proponents of this study would like to acknowledge the presence of

the following individuals or organizations for their outstanding contribution to the

process of conducting this study.

Firstly, a vast gratitude to each of the proponent’s families. For providing

the outmost consent and support to the progress and development of the study.

Another, an extended gratitude to Sir Joshua Vir Aldrew A. Porca. For the

helpful tips, as a motivator, and as the first validator of this study.

Moreover, the greatest gratitude to Ma’am Maria Niecel P. Delos Ama. As

a primary motivator, for the statistical analysis on the study, and for guiding the

proponents on their decisions.

Additionally, the rightful acknowledgement for Dr. Vilma A. Ching, the

dearest Head Teacher of the Science Department, for her unwavering wisdom

and impactful insights towards the whole study.

Lastly, the utmost gratitude to Sir Marvelino A. Velarde, Jr. For checking,

validating, guiding, supervising the proponents through the progression of this

study.
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Table of Contents

Preliminaries

Title Page 1

Dedication 2

Acknowledgement 3

Table of Contents 4

Abstract 6

CHAPTER I – THE PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND

Introduction 7

Background of the Study 10

Statement of the Problem 11

Hypothesis 12

Significance of the Study

Scope & Limitations 13

Definition of Terms 14

CHAPTER II – REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE & STUDIES 16

CHAPTER III – METHODOLOGY

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Research Design 21

Risk and Safety

Tools & Materials 23

Procedures 24

Statistical Treatment 28

CHAPTER IV – PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS, & INTERPRETATION OF DATA

Presentation, Analysis, & Interpretation of Data 29

CHAPTER V – SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS, & RECOMMENDATIONS

Summary 35

Conclusion 37

Recommendations

BIBLIOGRAPHY 39

APPENDIX

Photographic Documentations 41

CURRICULUM VITAE 42
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Abstract

With the recent uptake in the use of power generators within residential areas,

alongside it, the risk of Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, due to the Carbon

emissions from the power generator’s exhaust, this study aims to lessen the

probability of Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning whenever a person uses a power

generator, by developing a portable air purifier.

Primarily, this study aims to determine whether the air purifier will have any

significant effect on the surrounding CO particles, this was through the utilization

of the 2-group research design, which features one experimental group and one

control group. In this study, Group A contains the presence of the CO purifier,

while Group B has the absence of the CO purifier.

Every emission of CO particles will originate from an old power generator. To

generate a fair simulation of a residential area, while still following research

ethics, the proponents conducted the study in a semi-open area, which has low-

moderate wind.

The unique aspects and factors of this study, is the utilization of activated

carbon technology, and the use of SMS notification alerts.

Upon experimentation, the findings present that Group A, through Arithmetic

Means, Test 1 averaged 15.4 PPM, Test 2 averaged 19.4 PPM, and Test 3

averaged 17.4 PPM, while Group B, through Arithmetic Means, Test 1 averaged

24.4 PPM, Test 2 averaged 23 PPM, and Test 3 averaged 21.8 PPM. The
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mentioned statistics further suggest that, in comparison to Group A, Group B

average greater amounts of PPM.

Supporting factors such as the SMS notification delivery speed and

Resilience testing is vital to the reliability of the device. the SMS notifications

were able to be delivered to the client’s phone, upon detection of the CO

emissions. In combating an odorless and colorless gas, the alert from the device

is vital against CO poisoning.

Another, the resilience of the device against dust and other unnecessary

particles (in contrast to the device’s performance longevity) was able to resist

properly. As time goes on, everything decays, but through the 3 tests, the device

was able to perform, even when covered in specks of dust and other particles.

With the above-mentioned findings, the proponents were able to conclude

that the CO air purifier made a significant impact to the CO particles, thus

reducing the amount of CO particles present in the test area.

Keywords: Arduino, Carbon, filter, generator, purifier

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Chapter 1

THE PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND

Introduction

In today’s day and age, the modernization in the Philippines has been

largely progressive. The utilization of new technology grants the public and

the Philippine sectors to new heights. The EY website (2020), a company that

looks into innovation and world development, describes the Philippines as a

“newly industrialized country.” The article elaborates that the Philippines is

34th in the world’s largest economy, while sitting at 13th place in Asia.

With large movement within a country’s economic growth, comes with a

greater consumption in the country’s electricity sources. The electricity

situation in the Philippines features a large consumption rate from different

sources. Energypedia via Asean Renewables (2018) noted that, with the

Philippines being included in the Pacific Ring of Fire, generated electricity

came mostly from geothermal energy, at 41.4%.

The importance of electricity to economic progress has been tighter

than ever before, the presence of having electricity in most industries is now a

must. According to the United States Energy Information Administration

(2020), the Philippines in 2019 has generated a total of over 106-billion-

kilowatt hours (kWh) worth of electricity generation. The Department of

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Energy (2019) published a statistical chart showing that of the 42,720 total

electricity sales, residential and industrial reigned over the commercial sector,

topping the charts at over 15,000 worth of power consumption contribution.

Alongside the industrial sector, residential areas in the Philippines also

have a large contribution to energy consumption. Ever since the global

pandemic started, students would study at home, charging their gadgets, and

using fans. Workers would work from home, use gadgets, and utilize different

electrical appliances. There is no doubt that electricity plays a huge role in the

modern era the world is living at right now.

Although in the Philippines, maintaining a healthy and clean environment

is a difficult thing to do. With frequent storm surges and super typhoons, a

stable electrical environment is at stake. In 2022, the UN Office for the

Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs reported the surge of Super Typhoon Rai,

which affected multiple regions in the country. While remote areas were unable

to get immediate access to electrical recovery, the rest of the residential areas

relied on power generators as a temporary source of power.

Furthermore, due to the higher demand of power generators, the more

risks it provides to these areas. An example of this risk is Carbon monoxide

(CO) poisoning, which is generally produced by the exhaust of power

generators. Prolonged exposure to this odorless, and colorless gas could lead

to several respiratory complications. The Department of Health (2020) warned

via Phil Star news article that carbon monoxide poisoning is greatly associated
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with the persistent consumption of power generators, and that the health effects

and complications contracted from the poisoning could lead to fatal conditions.

Background of the Study

In regards to why this study has been chosen by the proponents, the

background of the study includes the brief explanation on the concepts of

Carbon monoxide (CO), the use of Arduino, the utilization of activated carbon

filters, and the CO emissions from power generator exhausts.

Carbon monoxide’s (CO) presence has always been a threat to the

health of the human race, this odorless, colorless, and tasteless gas makes it

even harder for humans to detect. According to a study researched by

Sandilands, A., & Bateman, D, “CO reduces oxygen delivery in several ways.”

Furthermore, the authors added that CO poisoning has become more prominent

in developing countries due to the utilization of various daily technology, such as

busted car engines, kitchen wares, and broken power generator exhausts. With

that, CO can be truly identified as a threat to public health.

Moreover, the use of power generators has been persistent in the

Philippines, mainly due to the non-stop rotating blackouts, mostly caused by

either insufficient supply of electricity, or natural disasters. The thing about

power generators in the Philippines, not every household has a properly

working power generator. Normally, properly working power generators do emit

CO as waste, though the thing about defective generators is the abnormal

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amount of CO emissions that could eventually lead to poisoning.

Volatile organic compounds or so-called “VOCs”, and other gases, have

always been hard to combat, because these gases are combined with the air

that humans breathe. One way of countering VOC’s is using air purifiers and

filters to filter out gases from the breathable air.

Normally, ‘High Efficiency Particulate Air’ filters or HEPA filters are used

to absorb particles from air, though has no capability in filtering out gases from

air. The main reason for this is that HEPA filters were only designed to filter out

particles that sticks to surfaces, such as dust, ash, etc. Moreover, the concept

of HEPA filters of absorbing particles does not match the concept of combating

gases. Activated carbon filters on the other hand, adsorbs particles, wherein

carbon filters were designed to capture gases from air. Since molecules of the

gases have blended with the air, it is nearly impossible for HEPA filters to

absorb those molecules, while carbon filters directly capture gases on a

molecular level.

The information presented in the background of the study pushes the

proponents to create an air purifier with activated carbon technology to combat

VOC’s, specifically Carbon monoxide (CO) from defective power generators in

a local household. Combined with Arduino technology, this study aims to lessen

the probability of CO poisoning whenever a person utilizes a power generator.

Statement of the Problem

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This study aims to lessen the probability of Carbon monoxide (CO)

poisoning whenever a person uses a power generator, by developing a

portable air purifier. Thus, the study is expected to experiment on the

following objectives:

1. To determine the impact of the CO air purifier to the amount of CO

particles in the testing area.

1.1 How different was the test results from Group A (with air purifier)

compared to Group B (without air purifier) in parts per million (PPM).

2. To assess the reliability of the air purifier as a hardware.

2.1 Determine the consistency of the filtering system of the hardware by

testing whether the system still functions (through fatigue testing) after 3

continuous exposures to CO.

2.2 Determine the delivery speed of the SMS alert from the hardware to

the client’s phone.

2.3 Determine the resilience—in contrast to its longevity—of the Carbon

fiber (through visual inspection).

Hypothesis

H0: The air purifier has no significant change to the amount of Carbon

monoxide (CO) in PPM in the test area.

H1: The air purifier is able to lessen the amount of Carbon monoxide (CO) in

PPM in the test area.

Significance of the Study

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Below are 5 groups that could potentially benefit from this study.

Families. Residential areas mostly consist of families. Some of these

families relies on the consumption of power generators, either because of

blackouts, natural disasters, etc.

Work from home workers. The pandemic affected a lot of workers, and

these workers are forced to be home-based as dangers awaits them and their

family if they continue to attend their work from afar. Like other families in

residential areas, the use of power generators is vital to home-based workers.

Neighbors. Neighborhoods with power generators are also affected by

the toxicity of carbon monoxide poisoning. If a single house currently has

possession of a power generator, neighboring houses are also affected by the

carbon monoxide produced by the power generator.

Small Convenience Stores. Stores that use power generators as a

secondary source of power or a source of power after blackouts, disasters, etc.

Can also benefit from this study.

Schools. Some private schools that use air conditionings, lights, and

machines to operate, are also in demand of power generators. These schools

can also benefit from the study, to ensure safety within the premises of its

campus.

Scope and Limitations

The main focus of this study is to determine the reliability and

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effectiveness of an air purifier with activated carbon technology for power

generator exhaust, that includes whether the air purifier lessens the amount of

carbon monoxide present or does the air purifier have no significant effect at

all.

The study is only limited to testing in a specified area, which is located

at one of the proponent’s houses. A semi-open area in Brgy. Calios, Sta. Cruz,

Laguna. The area qualifies as an ideal testing ground for the experiment, as

the area is isolated from deep residential areas, and does not feature

boisterous wind.

Definition of Terms

For the purpose of clarification, the important terms used in this study

have been operationally defined. The following terms are:

Air Purifier. A portable device used to filter out toxic pollutants in the

air.

Activated Carbon Technology. The chemical technology used in

carbon filters that has a high absorbent ability to capture toxic pollutants.

Carbon Filter. A filter with activated carbon technology that is typically

used in filtering carbon-related chemicals, such as Carbon monoxide.

Carbon monoxide. Is an odorless, colorless, and invisible gas, and

prolonged exposure could lead to Carbon monoxide poisoning.

Carbon monoxide poisoning. Occurs when one person faces

prolonged exposure to Carbon monoxide, ultimately leading to fatal health

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conditions.

Power generator. A portable electricity generator that is commonly

used as a power source in times of disasters and blackouts.

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC’s). Are chemically typically

produced as gases from solids and liquids, with some types of VOC’s are

harmful to the human respiratory system.

Particulate Matter (PM). Also known as particle pollution, a term used

when a speck of dust, or any form of solid and liquid that becomes attached to

the air.
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CHAPTER II

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES

In today’s modern quality of living, power generation has been an

essential fragment. The demand of electricity in both residential and industrial

areas has been gradually increasing, and as the consumption of electricity

increases, the uptake of power generators also increases. In residential areas,

power generators are commonly used during blackouts or after disasters that

leads to blackouts. Though the dangers of the extended use of power

generators are currently unknown to the public, with several cases of carbon

monoxide poisoning contracted from the uptake of power generators are still

present. This chapter presents a brief review on related literature on the

dangers of carbon monoxide, and the effects of air purifiers and activated

carbon technology.

Related Literature

This section shows the obtained literature that stands as foundation to

the relevance and importance of the study. These pieces literature was

gathered from various factual websites, which further stabilizes the studies

intelligence.

Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning in the Philippines is relevant. An

article in the Philippine News Agency written by Calipay (2020), reported that 3
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individuals have died due to CO exposure with the extended consumption of

power generators. The local health department warned the residents the

dangers of CO poisoning by the use of power generators.

Furthermore, an article by Treisman (2019) reported that portable

generators have peaked consumer sales by 1999 due to a higher demand in

the electricity market. The global portable generator market size was then

valued at $3.7 billion in 2018. And as disasters and blackouts arise from

different states, the uptake of these power generators increased as well.

Chan (2017) stated that activated carbon materials are traditional

chemical adsorbents generally used to capture VOC’s and other particulates

throughout a surface. Examples of these activated carbon technologies

include, textile materials ranging from forms of yarns, fibers, and fabrics, which

are widely used for both industrial and commercial uses.

In summary, as the wide consumption of power generators continue to

hike, the number of Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning cases increases as well.

Several solutions to CO poisoning have been proposed and recommended,

ranging from the use of air purifiers to activated carbon technologies. With the

influence of the previous literatures, this study aims to develop an air

purification device with an activated carbon filter to help prevent and combat

CO poisoning in residential areas.

Related Studies
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This section presents the studies related to the dangers of carbon

monoxide, the effects of air purifiers and activated carbon technology, which

were found to be significant to the study.

According to Lippmann & Leikauf (2020)’s study, Carbon monoxide (CO)

is typically produced from sources with incomplete combustion. Examples of

these include internal combustion from engines, fires, improperly adjusted gas

and oil appliances, water heaters, and ovens, and by tobacco smoking, making

CO poisoning quite relevant in both industrial and residential areas.

Moreover, Lippmann & Leikauf (2020)’s study stated that certain levels of

CO exposure could lead to major health defects, targeting not only our

respiratory system, but forming abnormalities in the brain and heart as well.

Reumuth et al. (2019) added that CO is a toxic, colorless, tasteless, and odorless

gas. This study stated that if left unmonitored or undetected, humans will then

have to face fatal consequences.

Though several studies have stated that Carbon monoxide is a highly toxic

and fatal gas, none has really stated how to combat it. Gullota et al. (2012)

suggested that preclinical evidence shows that CO has therapeutic and

pathological conditions, with inflammation, sepsis, lung injury, cardiovascular

diseases, transplantation, and cancer.

Other than using it as an unusual drug, several studies have shown

possibilities with the use of air purifiers and activated carbon technology. Kim et
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al. (2017) used an air purifier with carbon fibre filters as a way to filter out

chemicals, volatile organic compounds (VOC) inside passenger cars. Moreover,

Kim et al. (2017) added that the device’s gas cleaning performance was

compared to a commercial high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter, and has

shown results better than that of a commercial HEPA filter. Kim et al. (2017)’s

device has reduced the gases by 308%, 204%, and 327%, which was said to be

faster than the commercial air purifier.

Moving on, Yoda et al. (2020) argues that air purifiers have been famed

among the general public, as a safety and hygienic service inside their homes.

However, Yoda et al. (2020) stated that it is still controversial to many if air

purifiers do significant effects to pollutants or other chemicals present inside

residential areas. The study experimented with two subject groups, one with a

true air purifier and the other with a sham air purifier. The study’s results stated

that though the real air purifier decreased the test gases by 11%, this was not

seen as a significant effect. Therefore, the study concluded that the commercially

available air purification devices inside ordinary homes were demonstrated to not

have a significant effect on pollutants. But unlike in Kim et al. (2017)’s study,

Yoda et al. (2020)’s study used an air purifier with a standard commercial HEPA

filter, but is there any difference with air purifiers using carbon technology?

Furthermore, several studies have shown and applied activated carbon

technologies to air purification. Ligotski et al. (2019) predicted the VOC

adsorption performance of activated carbon-based filters for indoor air

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purification, coming out with still fragile piece of results. Yang et al. (2017)’s study

used activated carbon filter for simultaneous removal of particulate matter and

other VOC’s. This study stated that with the use of the carbon-based nanotubes

for air filtration, it can easily remove complex pollution by particulate matter (PM)

and ozone, with high removal efficiency, high quality factor and low-pressure

resistance.

These pieces of literature and studies are very important for the integrity of

the study. These related literature pushes and inspires the proponents to

continue working on this study, and proves that the study is indeed relevant. With

the influence of the previous literatures, this study aims to develop an air

purification device with an activated carbon filter to help prevent and combat CO

poisoning in residential areas.

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Chapter 3

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This chapter outlines the materials and methods utilized in the study. This

section provides a brief explanation on the research design used, the risks and

safety in the procedures, the tools and materials used, the step-by-step

explanation of the procedures, and the statistical treatment to be applied for the

data and results of the experimentation.

Research Design

This study utilizes the two-group experimental design. A two-group

experimental design features a design similar to the name. This specific design

consists of two (2) experimental groups, a treatment group and a control group,

wherein one group receives a treatment, whilst the other does not.

In this study, one scenario features a filter present in the area, whilst one

scenario does not. This method of experimentation allows the proponents to

determine whether the filter did have an effect on the amount of Carbon

monoxide (CO) particles in the area.

Risk and Safety

This section of the chapter explains the hazards that may happen, and the

safety protocols that must be observed before, during, and after the

experimentation.
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Before the experimentation, it must be observed that each proponent shall

prepare and wear at least a face mask, and protective glasses. This ensures that

each individual is safe, as the carbon emissions may damage the eyesight, the

respiratory system, etc. This protocol must be observed throughout the

experimentation.

During the experimentation, each individual must not be at least ten (10)

feet or approximately three (3) meters close to the filter and generator once

emissions have started. This must be observed until the Carbon monoxide (CO)

detector has already measured the amount of CO ppm in the area.

After the experimentation, each individual must dispose of the face masks

and observe proper hygienic control to prevent carbon wastes from scattering all

over the test area. Sudden feeling of nausea, headache, weakness, or vomiting,

must be informed to the supervisors and adults in the field, to check on medical

assistance. This may be the result of Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.

Otherwise, the next procedure may proceed if and only if none of the proponents

have been cleared “healthy.”


CO PURIFIER FOR POWER GENERATOR EXHAUSTS
Table 1 – Tools and Materials needed to construct the air filter, and to do
the experimentation.
Tools and Materials
1. Arduino MEGA 2560 Rev3
board
2. Cardboard case
3. Fans 2pcs.
4. Carbon monoxide (CO) sensor
5. SIM800L V2 5V GSM GRPS
module
6. Activated Carbon Fabric
7. 500W Power Supply Unit
8. LCD Carbon monoxide (CO)
detector
9. Power Generator
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Uses
The Arduino board is the main microcontroller
board that processes the data obtained from
the Carbon monoxide (CO) sensors and sends
it to the proponent’s computer.
The cardboard case coats the whole hardware
to prevent extra unnecessary particles from
entering the chassis.
The fans pull the Carbon emissions from the
generator exhaust to be filtered by the
activated carbon filter fabric.
The Carbon monoxide (CO) sensor detects the
presence of the captured CO and sends a
signal to the Arduino board to alarm the
proponent.
The GSM module sends an SMS notification to
the proponent, once the Arduino board has
processed the data from the Carbon monoxide
(CO) sensor. This alarms the proponents that
the hardware has detected the presence of CO
in the area.
The Activated Carbon Fabric (ACF) is part of
the main filtration system of the hardware, the
ACF adsorbs the Carbon monoxide (CO)
particles.
The Power Supply Unit powers the fans.
The LCD Carbon monoxide (CO) detector
helps the proponents measure and determine
the amount of Carbon monoxide (CO) particles
present during the experimentation.
The power generator will be used as the main
source of Carbon monoxide (CO) emissions for
the study’s main experimentation.
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Flowchart of the Procedures

The figure below presents the outline or flowchart of the step-by-step

procedures to be followed as guide for the proponents. This includes the

construction of the Carbon monoxide (CO) air filter, the main experimentation,

and the gathering of the results from the experimentation.

figure 1 – Flowchart of the Methodology

Procedures

Phase 1 – Preparation of materials.

Firstly, the proponents must prepare the materials. With caution and care,

the materials must be placed on a flat and clean surface. This ensures the

reliability and efficiency of each component of the hardware.

Phase 2 – Assembling the hardware.

Secondly, the proponents must assemble the components with caution

and care. The assembly of the hardware consist of materials

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1-7 based from table 1.

figure 2 – Illustration of the air filter.

The proponents must use the figure above (figure 2) to appropriately

assemble the components of the hardware. Based from figure 2, the hardware’s

chassis will be split in three different sections; the left, middle, and right sections.

The left side only encases the power supply unit (PSU). The middle section

encases the activated carbon fabric (ACF), the Carbon monoxide (CO) sensor,

and the two (2) fans, which are hooked up to the PSU for power. The right

section encases the GSM module, the Arduino board, and the breadboard, in

which the CO sensor in the middle section is hooked up to the breadboard,

alongside the GSM module, to be processed by the Arduino board.

Phase 3 – Programming.

Next, the proponents must program the Arduino board, in order for it to

know what it must process. First, the proponents must check if the Carbon

monoxide (CO) sensor and the GSM module are connected properly on the

breadboard, for the Arduino board to process the data from the devices

appropriately. Using Arduino IDE, the official open-source software for writing
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and uploading code to any Arduino board, the proponents must embed a specific

code on the software.

Phase 4 – Setting the test area.

Moving forward, the proponents must ensure that the test area is clean,

partially-open, and the wind must be motionless. This ensures the accuracy of

the results and data to be gathered in the testing area.

figure 3 – Testing area layout.

To further ensure the accuracy of the results and data, the assembled

hardware and the power generator must be placed facing three (3) feet away, in

front of each other. The LCD Carbon monoxide (CO) sensor must also be placed

beside the filter.

Phase 5 – Experimentation for Group A and Group B

At this phase, the proponents must proceed to the experimentation for

Group A and Group B. Using the two-group experimental research design, as

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explained in the earlier parts of this chapter,wherein Group A is the treatment

group, while Group B is the control group.

figure 4 – Experimentation Process for the two groups.

As shown in the figure above (figure 4), the experimentation process for

the two (2) groups is quite simple. Group A (Treatment Group) starts off with the

measurement of Carbon monoxide (CO) part per million (PPM) before the air

filter treatment, this process will be given five (5) minutes (using a mobile phone

time instrument). Then, the filter treatment comes in while being exposed to CO

for another five (5) minutes. Finally, ending with the measurement of CO PPM

after the filter treatment. Group B (Control Group) starts off with the

measurement of CO PPM before the CO exposure, then for a total of five (5)

minutes, the process ends with the measurement of PPM after the exposure to

CO.

Phase 6 – Gather results.

The final step in the step-by-step procedure, the proponents must

immediately gather and record the results from their instruments. This ensures
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that the data gathered is timely and relevant at the time of the experimentation.

Statistical Treatment

To analyse the data, the proponents plan on utilizing Arithmetic Means or (

Σ
) in this study. Through arithmetic means, the reliability of the hardware may
n

be concluded. The proponents chose this statistical treatment because it best

suits the study, and delivers the most appropriate and accurate analysis of data.
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Chapter 4

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

This chapter presents the findings of the conducted study. This chapter

also includes the data gathered, various data analysis, and data interpretation.

This study was conducted with the aim to determine the impact of the Carbon

monoxide (CO) air purifier to CO particles, as well as, to assess the reliability of

the air purifier as a hardware. The following presentation of findings is sequential

as per listed in the statement of the problem.

Group A - CO PPM levels per minute (With the air puri-

fier)
Test 1 Test 2 Test 3
30
25
20
15
10
5
0
1 2 3 4 5

Figure 5 – Changes in Carbon monoxide (CO) PPM levels in 5 minutes with

the presence of the air purifier.

Figure 5 presents the changes in CO PPM levels within the span of 5

minutes, through 3 tests, with the air purifier. In test 1, through the 1 st minute, the

PPM levels hiked to approximately 19 PPM, ending at 12 PPM by the last

minute. In test 2, through the 1st minute, the PPM levels went up to approximately

24 PPM, ending at 16 PPM through the last minute. Lastly, in test 3, the PPM
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level, through 1st minute, reaches 23 PPM, ending at 13 PPM through the last

minute. It is evident through the findings that there is a decreasing trend of PPM

levels in the experimental group.

Furthermore, the results show that the carbon monoxide sensor with

carbon filter can mitigate carbon monoxide levels in power generator exhaust just

like in the case of Yoda et al. (2020) although the results of that study only show

slight improvement in indoor air quality on the other hand the study also

successfully demonstrated that air purification can reduce indoor concentrations

in single-person households.

Moreover, the results show that the carbon monoxide sensor with carbon

filter can lessen carbon monoxide levels in power generator exhaust, just like in

the case of Kim et al. (2017). The results in that study show that the novel

technology used in their study shows high potential for applications related to

indoor air cleaning devices for passenger vehicles.

Group B - CO PPM levels per minute (Without the air purifier)

Test 1 Test 2 Test 3
30
25
20
15
10
5
0
1 2 3 4 5

Figure 6 – Changes in Carbon monoxide (CO) PPM levels in 5 minutes

without the presence of the air purifier.

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Figure 6 presents the changes in CO PPM levels within the span of 5

minutes, through 3 separate tests, without the air purifier. In test 1, through the 1 st

minute, the PPM levels hiked to approximately 23 PPM, ending at 25 PPM by the

last minute. In test 2, through the 1st minute, the PPM levels went up to

approximately 21 PPM, ending at 27 PPM through the last minute. Lastly, in test

3, the PPM level, through 1st minute, reaches 19 PPM, ending at 25 PPM through

the last minute. It is evident through the findings that there is an increasing trend

of PPM levels in the control group.

Table 2. Group A (Experimental Group) CO PPM Arithmetic Mean per test

Test No. Mean

1 15.4

2 19.4

3 17.4

Table 2 presents the arithmetic means of the data gathered per test

conducted, with the air purifier present in the test area. Test 1 averaged 15.4

PPM, Test 2 averaged 19.4 PPM, and Test 3 averaged 17.4 PPM.

Table 3. Group B (Control Group) CO PPM Arithmetic Mean per test

Test No. Mean

1 24.4

2 23

3 21.8
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Table 3 presents the arithmetic means of the data gathered per test

conducted, without the air purifier present in the test area. Test 1 averaged 24.4

PPM, Test 2 averaged 23 PPM, and Test 3 averaged 21.8 PPM.

Additionally, the results show that the carbon monoxide sensor with

carbon filter can alleviate carbon monoxide levels in power generator exhaust,

just like in the case of Ligotski et al. (2019), wherein the results of that study

shows that the regeneration of the ACF media at 150°C was effective in

improving the VOC air cleaning efficiency.

Although the study has incorporated a short-term version of a fatigue test,

with 3 tests per group, the results show that the device had an impact. The

treatment group was averaging less CO PPM throughout the three tests, though

not sequentially consistent, the device delivered a great impact to the field.

Table 4. SMS Notification delivery speed per test (in seconds)

Test No. Delivery Speed (secs)

1 1.2

2 1.1

3 1.4

Table 4 presents the delivery speed (in seconds) of the SMS notification

through 3 tests. In test 1, the delivery speed measured 1.2 seconds. In test 2, the

delivery speed measured 1.1 seconds. And in test 3, the delivery speed

measured 1.4 seconds.

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The SMS notification is relevant to the reliability of the air purifier, because

it alerts the user of an impending CO leak, thus minimizes the chances of the

individual being affected by the harmful effects of CO poisoning. In an article by

Calipay, C. (2020), 3 individuals died, while 10 others left hospitalized, in an

uncontrolled CO poisoning outbreak in the victims’ house. The article added that

the victims were experiencing symptoms, yet were unaware that they were being

poisoned. With CO being this nearly undetectable toxic gas, it is troublesome.

Table 5. Carbon Fiber Visual Inspection

Test No. Were there visible dirt?

1 No

2 No

3 Yes

Table 5 presents the results for the visual inspection of the carbon fiber

fabric. In air purification, the possibility of other particles, such as dirt and dust,

would remain a possibility as one of the most extracted particles. If any visible

dirt or dust, and other particles were present, the proponents would check “yes,”

otherwise, “no.”

In correlation to an article by Woodard, J. (2019), which states that

“Carbon filters are extremely porous and have a large surface area, making them

effective at reducing bad tastes, odors, and other particles in water.” This
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CO PURIFIER FOR POWER GENERATOR EXHAUSTS

experiment explored the carbon fiber’s resilience to dusts and other particles, in

contrast to its longevity.

The results show that throughout tests 1 and 2, there were no visible dirt.

But after test 3, signs of little specks of dust and dirt started appearing. In

comparison to the performance of the device, it was still able to deliver a good

performance, even after contracting dust and dirt.

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Chapter 5

SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS, AND RECOMMENDATIONS

This chapter includes the general summary of the study, the summary of

the findings, the conclusions derived from the data and findings, and the

recommendations that the proponents would like to explore upon obtaining the

results and findings from the experimentation.

Summary

This study aims to lessen the probability of Carbon monoxide (CO)

poisoning whenever a person uses a power generator, by developing a portable

air purifier. Thus, the study experimented on the following:

1. The overall impact of the CO purifier to the surrounding CO particles.

1.1 How different was the test results from Group A (with air purifier)

compared to Group B (without air purifier) in terms of part per million

(PPM).

2. The reliability of the CO purifier as a daily hardware.

2.1 Determine the consistency of the filtering system of the hardware by

testing whether the system still functions (through fatigue testing) after 3

continuous exposures to CO.

2.2 Determine the delivery speed of the SMS alert from the hardware to

the client’s phone.

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2.3 Determine the resilience—in contrast to its longevity—of the Carbon

fiber (through visual inspection).

The study was conducted through the 2-group research design, which

features one experimental group and one control group.

In this study, Group A contains the presence of the CO purifier, while

Group B has the absence of the CO purifier. Every emission of CO particles will

originate from an old power generator. To generate a fair simulation of a

residential area, while still following research ethics, the proponents conducted

the study in a semi-open area, which has low-moderate wind.

1. For Group A, through Arithmetic Means, Test 1 averaged 15.4 PPM, Test

2 averaged 19.4 PPM, and Test 3 averaged 17.4 PPM, which rejects the

null hypothesis.

2. For Group B, through Arithmetic Means, Test 1 averaged 24.4 PPM, Test

2 averaged 23 PPM, and Test 3 averaged 21.8 PPM. In comparison to

Group A, Group B average greater amounts of PPM, hence, also rejecting

the null hypothesis.

3. For the SMS deliver speed, Through Arithmetic Means, Test 1, the

delivery speed measured 1.2 seconds. Test 2, the delivery speed

measured 1.1 seconds. And in Test 3, the delivery speed measured 1.4

seconds.
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CO PURIFIER FOR POWER GENERATOR EXHAUSTS

4. For the device’s resilience (in contrast to its longevity), The results show

that throughout tests 1 and 2, there were no visible dirt. But after test 3,

signs of little specks of dust and dirt started appearing. In comparison to

the performance of the device, it was still able to deliver a good

performance, even after contracting dust and dirt.

Conclusions

Based on the mentioned findings, the proponents were able to conclude

on the following:

1. The CO air purifier made a significant impact to the CO particles, reducing

the amount of CO particles present in the test area.

2. Furthermore, the SMS notifications were able to be delivered to the

client’s phone, upon detection of the CO emissions. Another, the

resilience of the device against dust and other unnecessary particles (in

contrast to the device’s performance longevity) was able to resist properly.

Recommendations

Upon the completion of the study, the proponents would like to suggest

the following to all future researchers, for future development and innovation.

To all aspiring technologists, the field of technology and robotics is a

broad topic. This study is versatile. Tinkering with the materials, may result into a
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CO PURIFIER FOR POWER GENERATOR EXHAUSTS

different outcome. Consider factors such as the quality of materials, weather

conditions, test area conditions, all of which can affect the device’s performance.

To future generations, keep adding more features. A notable advantage of

research is endless innovation. Apply your creativity to this study, and it may

contribute much more, than what the proponents initially planned.

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Bibliography
Chen, J. (2017). Activated Carbon Fiber and Textiles.
https://books.google.com.ph/books?
id=TYd4CgAAQBAJ&lpg=PP1&ots=Jqe4xdAK
Calipay, C. (2020, November 15.). 3 dead in Albay due to carbon monoxide
poisoning. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1121873
Gullota, F., di Masi, A., & Ascenzi, P. (2012). Carbon monoxide: An unusual
drug. IUBMB Life, 64(5), 378-386. https://doi.org/10.1002/iub.1015
Hampson, N. (2015). Carbon Monoxide Poisoning from Portable Electrical
Generators. https:/doi.org/10.1016/j.jemermed.2014.12.091
Kim, H., Han, B., Woo, C., Kim, Y., Lim, G., & Shin, W. (2017). "Air Cleaning
Performance of a Novel Electrostatic Air Purifier Using an Activated
Carbon Fiber Filter for Passenger Cars," IEEE Transactions on Industry
Applications 53(6) 5867-5874, https://doi.org/10.1109/TIA.2017.2745499
Kim, M., Lim, G., Kim, Y., Han, B., Woo, C., & Kim, H. (2018). A novel
electrostatic precipitator-type small air purifier with a carbon fiber ionizer
and an activated carbon fiber filter. 117, 63-73.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaerosci.2017.12.014
Kleinman, M. (2020). Environmental Toxicants: Human Exposure and Their
Health Effects. https://doi.org/10.1002/9781119438922.ch12
Ligotski, R., Sager, U., Schneiderwind, U., Asbach, C., & Schmidt, F. (2019).
Prediction of VOC adsorption performance for estimation of service life of
activated carbon-based filter media for indoor air purificatio. 149, 146-156.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.buildenv.2018.12.001
Lodewyckx, P., Fernando - Velasco, L., & Boutillara, Y. (2019). Estimating the
Service Life of Activated Carbon Filters for Air Purification.
https://doi.org/10.18321/ectj860
Oh, H., Nam, I., Yun, H., Kim, J., Yang, J., & Sohn, J. (2014). Characterization of
indoor air quality and efficiency of air purifier in childcare centers, Korea.
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Rajapandian, G., Pandiyan, B., Chandrasekar, L., Krishnan, K., Sebastian, J.,
Kesavel, M., & Sudharsan, V. (2019) 7(01), 1-5.
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Reumuth, G., Alharbi, Z., Houschyar, K., Kim, B., Siemers, F., Fuchs, P., &
Grieb, G. (2019). Carbon monoxide intoxication: What we know. 45(3),
526-530.https://doi.org/10.1016/j.burns.2018.07.006
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Sidheswaran, M., Destaillats, H., Sullivan, D., Cohn, S., & Fisk, W. (2012).
Energy efficient indoor VOC air cleaning with activated carbon fiber (ACF)
filters. 47, 357-367. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.buildenv.2011.07.002
Sykes, O., & Walker, E. (2016). The neurotoxicology of carbon monoxide –
Historical perspective and review. 74, 440-448.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cortex.2015.07.033
Treisman, R. (2019). Carbon Monoxide Poisonings Spike After Big Storms.
Portable Generators Are a Culprit.
https://www.npr.org/2019/12/04/784279242/carbon-monoxide-poisoning-
from-portable-generators-proves-predictable-and-deadly
Xu, Z. (2017). Air Purifier: Property, Assessment and Applications.
https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-13-2532-8
Yoda, Y., Tamura, K., Adachi, S., Otani, N., Nakayama, S., & Shima, M. (2020).
Effects of the Use of Air Purifier on Indoor Environment and Respiratory
System among Healthy Adults. IJERPH, 17(10).
https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17103687
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Appendix

Photographic Documentations
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CO PURIFIER FOR POWER GENERATOR EXHAUSTS

Curriculum Vitae

SIR JAIRUS MATTHEW M. BALDESCO

Block 8, Lot 16, Lynville Residences San Nicolas 2,
Phase 1, San Pablo City, Laguna
sjmbaldesco@gmail.com
0945-328-8860

PERSONAL INFORMATION
Age : 16
Place of Birth : Santa Cruz, Laguna
Date of Birth : April 11, 2007
Religion : Roman Catholic
Nationality : Filipino
Sex : Male
Civil Status : Single
Father’s Name : Joem E. Baldesco
Mother’s Name : Marie Conn M. Baldesco

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

Junior High School : Pedro Guevara Memorial National High School

Santa Cruz, Laguna
2019 - present
Elementary : South Bay Montessori School and Colleges,
Inc.
Santa Cruz, Laguna
2015 – 2019
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CO PURIFIER FOR POWER GENERATOR EXHAUSTS
 44
CO PURIFIER FOR POWER GENERATOR EXHAUSTS

Curriculum Vitae

ZILDJIAN DE LIMA DEL ROSARIO

4345 Purok Matatag, Brgy. Calios,
Santa Cruz, Laguna
delrosariozildjian19@gmail.com
0961-194-0897

PERSONAL INFORMATION

Age : 16
Place of Birth : Santa Cruz, Laguna
Date of Birth : October 20, 2006
Religion : Roman Catholic
Nationality : Filipino
Sex : Male
Civil Status : Single
Father’s Name : Melwin S. Del Rosario
Mother’s Name : Karla D. Del Rosario

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

Junior High School : Pedro Guevara Memorial National High School

Santa Cruz, Laguna
2019 - present
Elementary : Capitol View Christian School
Santa Cruz, Laguna
2013 – 2019
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CO PURIFIER FOR POWER GENERATOR EXHAUSTS
 46
CO PURIFIER FOR POWER GENERATOR EXHAUSTS

Curriculum Vitae

VAUGHN JOSHUA NORIEL ESPAÑOL

Purok 3 Brgy. Cigaras,
Magdalena, Laguna
vaughnjoshuaespanol11@gmail.com
0966-809-9387

PERSONAL INFORMATION

Age : 15
Place of Birth : Santa Cruz, Laguna
Date of Birth : September 11, 2007
Religion : Roman Catholic
Nationality : Filipino
Sex : Male
Civil Status : Single
Father’s Name : Romeo P. Español
Mother’s Name : Rina N. Español

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

Junior High School : Pedro Guevara Memorial National High School

Santa Cruz, Laguna
2019 - present
Elementary : Buenavista Cigaras Elementary School
Santa Cruz, Laguna
2013 – 2019
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