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Bioinspired capillary force-driven super-adhesive filter

Author

Listed:
  • Junyong Park

    (Chung-Ang University)

  • Chan Sik Moon

    (Chung-Ang University)

  • Ji Min Lee

    (Chung-Ang University)

  • Sazzadul A. Rahat

    (University of Cincinnati)

  • Sang Moon Kim

    (Incheon National University)

  • Jonathan T. Pham

    (University of Cincinnati
    University of Cincinnati)

  • Michael Kappl

    (Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research)

  • Hans-Jürgen Butt

    (Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research)

  • Sanghyuk Wooh

    (Chung-Ang University)

Abstract

Capturing particles with low, nanonewton-scale adhesion is an ongoing challenge for conventional air filters1,2. Inspired by the natural filtration abilities of mucus-coated nasal hairs3,4, we introduce an efficient, biomimetic filter that exploits a thin liquid coating. Here we show that a stable thin liquid layer is formed on several filter media that generates enhanced particulate adhesion, driven by micronewton to sub-micronewton capillary forces5,6. Enhanced particle adhesion increases the filtration of airborne particulates while maintaining air permeability, providing longer filter lifetime and increased energy savings. Moreover, strong adhesion of the captured particles enables effective filtration under high-speed airflow as well as suppression of particle redispersion. We anticipate that these filters with thin liquid layers afford a new way to innovate particulate matter filtering systems.

Suggested Citation

  • Junyong Park & Chan Sik Moon & Ji Min Lee & Sazzadul A. Rahat & Sang Moon Kim & Jonathan T. Pham & Michael Kappl & Hans-Jürgen Butt & Sanghyuk Wooh, 2025. "Bioinspired capillary force-driven super-adhesive filter," Nature, Nature, vol. 643(8071), pages 388-394, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:nature:v:643:y:2025:i:8071:d:10.1038_s41586-025-09156-y
    DOI: 10.1038/s41586-025-09156-y
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