The Active Phytoremediation Wall System consists of hydroponic plants in bio- and phyto-filtration pods. The pods are installed in a modular screen which serves as a plenum and as ductwork for air movement. A support frame holds the pods in place and a drip irrigation system supplies fresh water to each plant. The roots are exposed to the air and receive water through absorbent wicks that are filled by reservoirs supplied by the drip system.
The system can be populated with foliage plants like ferns, or with crawling plants such as ivy or moss.
Populated with ferns
Populated with ivy
Populated with moss
The air purification process works as follows: Ventilated outside air is brought into a building by the HVAC system. Oxygen is used up and toxins are added as the air is affected by people, finishes, and other contributors to poor indoor air quality. As the polluted air moves through the phytoremediation wall--largely by natural air circulation flows--the root rhizomes digest the toxins and replenish the oxygen. Clean air is then returned to the interior environment.
The wall is currently undergoing a rigorous testing process. Test pods are vacuum-formed and assembled, as are pieces of the modular duct framework which manage airflow through the system.
Assembled modules are placed in a testing chamber to measure the air-cleaning power of different plant species and the overall effectiveness of the system.
Plants are installed, and the test system is assembled.
