You come home after a long day at work. The smoke of traffic and the gray clouds that blanket the city are now far away. Finally, you can breathe freely again. Or at least that’s the general assumption that the air in our homes is less polluted than outside. However, many studies may disagree. We recently worked on smartphone zombie syndromethere is also another thing that affects the air in our homes. toxic home syndrome. actual, statistics Levels of some pollutants have been shown to be two to five times higher in homes than outdoors. There are many reasons for this situation. Building and insulation materials containing chemicals, burning gases and fuels, and the infestation of mites are just some of them. Allergies, asthma and even lung disease are some of its effects. Of course there are air filter Already available, researchers at the University of Washington found that Innovative solution Genetically modified plants that are not only more efficient but also purify the air in your home can give your home a greener feel.
One of the major problems with current air filters is their inability to remove harmful particulates such as: chloroform again benzene, present respectively in chlorinated water and fuel used in heating systems. To combat these harmful compounds, the research team turned to a common houseplant, the humble pothos ivy.epipremnum aureum).this guy’s strategy Innovation The goal was to introduce genetic modifications that would allow test plants to express the 2E1 protein and convert these contaminants into nutrients and compounds beneficial to their growth. This protein is present in all mammals and its main job is to break down and metabolize alcohol.
green lever
The 2E1 protein converts benzene to phenol and chloroform to carbon dioxide and chloride ions. Therefore, scientists call these plants “green liver”.of technology research This process took two years to complete, but the results are certainly encouraging. There was an 82% reduction in chloroform over 3 days, almost undetectable on day 6, and a 75% reduction in benzene after 8 days. One of the keys to optimizing the process is the presence of air currents that carry contaminants to the plants.This next goal is technology project Adding a protein that can remove formaldehyde, another common contaminant.
Of course, the plant does not require an external power supply. clean the airThis technique is therefore extremely environmentally friendly.
sauce: University of Washington
