Concept Overview:
The model demonstrates a factory-style air purification system that removes pollutants from the air using carbon adsorption with graphite rods. A 12 V fan simulates the airflow in a factory, pulling polluted air through the system and releasing clean air.
Key Science Concepts:
- Carbon/graphite adsorption of pollutants.
- Air filtration process.
- Renewable energy / low-power purification demonstration.
Materials Required
| Material | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Cardboard / Acrylic box | 1 | Main body / chamber |
| 12 V DC fan | 1 | Pulls polluted air into model |
| Graphite rods | 2 | Pollutant capture / adsorption |
| Small mesh or perforated sheet | 2 | Hold graphite rods in place |
| Wires | As needed | Electrical connections |
| 12 V DC power supply / battery | 1 | Power the fan |
| Air filter foam / sponge | 1 | Optional pre-filter for dust |
| Glue / hot glue gun | – | Assemble components |
| Decorative paper / stickers | – | For factory concept display |
| LED light (optional) | 1 | Show “air is clean” indicator |
Working Principle:
- Polluted air enters the front chamber of the model (factory entrance).
- The 12 V fan pulls air through the graphite rods, which act as a carbon adsorption medium to capture smoke, dust, or carbon particles.
- Air passes through optional foam filter for larger particles.
- Purified air exits from the back of the model.
- LED indicator (optional) lights up to show that air is purified.
Science Explanation:
- Graphite rods adsorb carbon and pollutants due to high surface area.
- Air movement by fan simulates factory exhaust systems.
- Demonstrates how industrial air purification works on a small scale.
Step-by-Step Construction Guide
Step 1: Build the Factory Box
- Use a cardboard or acrylic box as the main structure (~30×20×20 cm).
- Cut a front opening for air intake and a back opening for exhaust.
- Optional: decorate like a factory for exhibition aesthetics.
Step 2: Install the Fan
- Fix the 12 V DC fan near the back exhaust or in the middle to pull air through the purification chamber.
- Connect fan to 12 V battery or DC power supply. Use a switch to turn ON/OFF.
Step 3: Prepare Graphite Rods
- Place 2 graphite rods inside the box using mesh or perforated holders to keep them upright and stable.
- Ensure air passes between the rods for maximum contact.
Step 4: Optional Pre-Filter
- Insert a small foam or sponge before graphite rods to trap larger dust particles.
Step 5: Wiring & LED Indicator
- Connect the fan to a switch and 12 V supply.
- Optional: connect an LED at the exhaust end to indicate that air is passing and purification is happening.
Step 6: Final Assembly
- Close the box while leaving intake and exhaust openings.
- Test fan airflow. Ensure air moves through the graphite rods efficiently.
Step 7: Demonstration
- You can introduce a smoke source (like incense stick) at the intake to simulate pollution.
- Turn on the fan → watch smoke move through the chamber → reduced smoke at exhaust demonstrates purification.
- Explain the adsorption concept and how factories reduce carbon emissions.