International Filtration News – Issue 6, 2023

filtnews.com Issue 6 | 2023 TM

SHOW PREVIEW

AHR EXPO 2024

Innovation in Action New Trends for the Filtration Marketplace

AUTOMOTIVE Cabin Air Considerations FILTER PERFORMANCE Filtration for Large & Small Particles COATINGS Flame Retardants and Sustainability

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CONTENTS FEATURES

2023 | VOL 42 | ISSUE 06

Innovation in Action: Bringing 10 2023 New Ideas to the Filtration Marketplace Shaping the Future 18 Sustainably of the Flame Retardant Market Coronavirus Advanced Filtration 20 HowEfficiency and the Industry

By Joe Kennard

By Nikki Sasher

23 IAQ Filtration Performance Air Quality – What Could Stink in the 26 Cabin Nostrils of Automotive Evaporator Cores From Turbidity to Transparency: Mastering 30 Hard Seltzer Filtration Techniques 10 2023: 34 FiltXPO™ On the Edge of Change Expo Preview: 36 AHR Excellence in Air Quality

By Dr. Felix Swamidoss Ph.D.

By Dr. Iyad Al-Attar

By Dr. Ilona Schneider

COLUMNS & DEPARTMENTS

6 Viewpoint 7 Tech Spotlight 8 Tech Notes 33 M&A Insights

Filtering End-of-Year Relections

By Caryn Smith, Chief Content Officer & Publisher

20

LANXESS Expands its Range for PFAS Removal from Water New Technology Briefs

Cover Illustration: iStockphoto/Peshkova

The Management Presentation – Usually Leads to an Outlier Result for the Seller

By Len LaPorta, Managing Director, Wiley Bros.-Aintree Capital, LLC

38 Tech Talk

2023 in the Rearview Mirror, 2024 in the Crystal Ball

By Matt O’Sickey, Director of Education & Technical Affairs, INDA

40 True Cost 42 Movers & Shakers

Chocolate Filtration

By Bob McIlvaine, President, The McIlvaine Company

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26

Industry News & Notes

CONTRIBUTORS | ISSUE 6 2023

Nikki Sasher

Joe Kennard

Caryn Smith

Biological and Gas Phase Lab Manager, AAF Flanders +1 812-557-9254 nsasher@aafintl.com

North American Marketing Manager Eagle Flame Retardants joe.kennard@stahl.com +1 302-542-3414

Chief Content Officer & Publisher, INDA Media csmith@inda.org

Dr. Felix Swamidoss

Head of Research & Development at Spectrum Filtration, India Felix@spectraco.in

Dr. Ilona Schneider

Team Leader Product Management Eaton Technologies GmbH IlonaSchneider@eaton.com

CALL FOR CONTRIBUTORS

Dr. Iyad Al-Attar

Visiting Academic Fellow School of Aerospace, Transport, & Manufacturing, Cranfield Univ.

Iyad.Al-Attar@cranfield.ac.uk

Matt O’Sickey

Bob McIlvaine

Director of Education & Technical Affairs, INDA mosickey@inda.org +1 919.459.3748

C NTRACT PLEATING SERVICES

President, The McIlvaine Company +1 847.784.0013 rmcilvaine@mcilvainecompany.com

Len LaPorta

Managing Director Wiley Bros.-Aintree Capital, LLC llaporta@wileybros.com

International Filtration News is actively seeking contributed technical articles from qualified industry professionals and those allied to the filtration industry.

If you would like to pitch an article for publication in IFN, contact Caryn Smith at csmith@inda.org or +1 239.225.6137.

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CSMITH@INDA.ORG +1 239.225.6137

VIEWPOINT Filtering End-of-Year Reflections

A

CONTENT | EDITORIAL

CHIEF CONTENT OFFICER Caryn Smith Driven By Design LLC csmith@inda.org | +1 239.225.6137 EDITORIAL & PRODUCTION MANAGER Ken Norberg ken@filtnews.com | +1 202.681.2022

“As for the future, your task is not to foresee it, but to enable it.” — Antoine de Saint Exupery

s 2023 comes to a close, I am reflecting on this year and the past few years – and now, a busy 2024 ahead. I am grateful to have met so many amazing people in this industry since taking on the Chief Content Officer role at International Filtration News.

I have been to many of the trade shows around the world, and am in awe at the solutions this industry offers to societal and industrial filtration and separation needs.

In years prior, filtration considerations in my world consisted of keeping our home water cooler stocked so we could avoid drinking tap water (as a preference), and keeping the filter in the HVAC changed to avoid a service call for a clogged drain (more of a financial decision than about air quality). I’ve always had my oil and other filters changed to extend the life of my vehicles (which I drive until they die). And changing the refrigerator filter is a must, or else out the ice goes out of service. During COVID-19, my awareness as to risks of airborne germs rose, but being able to work from home, I just basically didn’t leave the house as a remedy.

Fast forward to today.

I am delving into the science of the industry, and working with our expert writers to share thought leadership and expertise with the readers to educate, inform and inspire.

My vocabulary has dramatically changed.

I understand in depth more of the industry’s issues and the world’s needs, along with

TM

products, services and applications that make a difference to meet them.

Overall, my hope is that we encourage you to think outside the box. We strive for smart, educated content that moves the needle and represents the important work that you do collectively as an industry. We hope that our bird’s eye view when approaching a subject provides perspective on how the pieces can all work together towards solutions that drive change.

This issue presents innovation that illustrates the best of filtration. Each year, we strive for it to be the best source of inspiration in the industry. This year’s entries start on page 10.

During one show this year, I had the opportunity to tour the AAF International Clean AIR Center. This impressive facility is cutting edge. Nikki Sasher presented one lab where research was conducted during COVID-19, and it was fascinating. The story on the lab’s history and work is on page 20.

In Tech Talk on page 38, Matt O’Sickey, Director of Education & Technical Affairs, INDA, walks us through 2023 and peers into 2024. He perfectly sums up where we are and what lies ahead. It is worthy of a good read.

Happy holidays and, as always, thanks for reading!

Caryn Smith Chief Content Officer & Publisher, INDA Media, IFN

ART DIRECTOR Julie Flynn INTERNATIONAL CORRESPONDENT Adrian Wilson

ADVERTISING | SALES

PUBLISHER Driven By Design LLC advertising@inda.media | +1 239.225.6137 ADVERTISING COORDINATOR Vickie Smead vsmead@inda.org +1 919 459 3700 x 3720

AUDIENCE | CIRCULATION

CIRCULATION MANAGER inda@stamats.com | +1 800.553.8878

International Filtration News is published by INDA Media, the B2B publishing arm of INDA, Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry. +1 919.459.3700 info@filtnews.com | www.filtnews.com News & Press Releases to IFNNews@inda.media

INTERNATIONAL FILTRATION NEWS (ISSN: 1078-4136x), is published bi-monthly by INDA, Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry, +1 919.459.3700. Subscription price is $125 per year for non-U.S. subscribers. Periodicals postage paid at Novi, MI, and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to International Filtration News, PO Box 158 Cedar Rapids IA 52406-0158 USA.

MISSION

International Filtration News covers the topics and technologies that will shape the future of filtration and separation. Using subject matter experts from all parts of the industry, IFN is the leading source for the dialogues, debates and innovations across the full spectrum of filtration and separation applications and processes.

International Filtration News Editorial Advisory Board R. Vijayakumar, Ph.D., Chair

James J. Joseph

Robert W. McIlvaine

If you would like to utilize your expertise to help shape the content in

Tel: +1 315-506-6883 Email: vijay@aerfil.com

Tel/Fax: +1 757-565-1549 Emai: josephmarketing120@gmail.com

Tel: +1 847-784-0013 Email: rmcilvaine@mcilvainecompany.com

the IFN, consider applying for the IFN Editorial Advisory Board.

AERFIL

Joseph Marketing

The McIlvaine Company

Rahul Bharadwaj, Ph.D.

Wenping Li, Ph.D.

Thad Ptak, Ph.D.

Tel: +1 603-953-6318 Email: rbharadwaj@lydall.com

Tel: +1 337-421-6345 Email: wenpingl@agrilectric.com

Tel: +1 414-514-8937 Email: thadptak@hotmail.com

Lydall Performance Materials

Tom Justice, CAFS, NCT ZENE, LLC Filtration Tel: 757-378-3857 Email: justfilter@yahoo.com

6 IFN ISSUE 6 2023

Agriltech Research Company

Ernest Mayer, Ph.D.

E. Mayer Filtration Consulting, LLC Tel: +1 302-981-8060 Email: ernestmayer6@gmail.com

TJ Ptak & Associates

We welcome participation through input on trends and innovations, new story ideas and overall thought leadership. This is a collaborative board that meets quarterly to discuss the state of the industry.

Send an email to Caryn Smith at csmith@inda.org for consideration.

TECH SPOTLIGHT

LANXESS Expands Its Range for PFAS Removal from Water

W

ith the new macroporous anion exchange resin Lewatit MonoPlus TP 109, specialty chemicals company LANXESS is expanding its range of selective resins for the efficient removal of contaminants such as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from water. The resin debuted in November at the Aquatech international trade show in Amsterdam, the Netherlands.

“Ion exchange resins have proved themselves over many years and all over the world as a reliable and efficient means of removing contaminants from water. Ion exchange and

and high fouling resistance. Furthermore, the uniform bead size ensures improved hydraulics. It can be efficiently regenerated with tried-and-tested regeneration chemicals such as methanol and sodium chloride.

“Especially with higher PFAS concentrations in water, this is a crucial benefit – not least because it allows the resin to be used sustainably,” said Steinhilber.

Lewatit MonoPlus TP 109 efficiently binds not only different PFAS but also complex anions such as nitrate, bromate, chlorate and perchlorate so that they can then be reliably t Diagrams showing the purification processes for wastewater and leachate with high PFAS concentrations and groundwater with low PFAS concentrations using a one- and two-stage ion exchange process.

LANXESS

adsorption processes sometimes even have a cooperative effect,” said Dr. Dirk Steinhilber, Technical Marketing Manager in the Liquid Purification Technologies business unit.

“Lewatit MonoPlus TP 109 is especially suitable for the purification and remediation of water with PFAS concentrations exceeding 10 ppb. As an integral part of our range of resins, it helps us to develop custom solutions for removing PFAS,” he added.

In addition to its high selectivity, the macroporous resin exhibits good kinetics

removed from water. It can even remove chlorate from concentrated sodium hydroxide.

Working Together Against PFAS Contamination In addition to the newly presented Lewatit MonoPlus TP 109, LANXESS offers a range of other selective resins for removing PFAS and that can also be combined for pre-cleaning and final polishing.

The heterodisperse, gel-type, strong base anion exchange resin Lewatit TP 108 DW

p LANXESS headquarters in Cologne, Germany.

helps to remove PFAS – especially short-chain members of this substance class – even in concentration ranges of less than 10 ppb and, thanks to its extremely high selectivity, into the ppt range. At a fire service training site in Australia, for example, up to 200 ppb of PFAS were removed from more than 50 million liters of groundwater over the course of many months. Due to the high usable capacity and correspondingly long service lives even in the presence of chlorides and sulfates, regeneration is not recommended for this resin. Lewatit TP 108 DW is certified to Standard 61 of the NSF/ANSI/ CAN, meeting U.S. requirements for contact with drinking water, a key quality criterion.

As a weak base, macroporous anion exchange resin, another selective resin – Lewatit MP 62 WS – offers medium selectivity for PFAS. Thanks to its high total capacity of more than 1.7 eq/L and also its high operating capacity, it is ideal for pre-treating heavily contaminated leachate, such as can be found close to the source of contamination. This resin, too, can be efficiently regenerated, in this case with sodium hydroxide.

Finally, Lewatit K 6362 is a strong base anion exchange resin that can be used for final polishing in a two-stage process, with Lewatit MonoPlus TP 109 or Lewatit MP 62 WS being used in the first purification stage.

LANXESS is a leading specialty chemicals company with sales of EUR 8.1 billion in 2022. The core business is the development, manufacturing and marketing of chemical intermediates, additives and consumer protection products. www.lewatit.com  For details on how to submit your company’s technology for consideration as a “Technology Spotlight” in IFN, contact Ken Norberg at ken@filtnews.com or +1 202.681.2022.

ISSUE 6 2023 FILTNEWS.COM 7

TECH NOTES

University at Buffalo: Researchers Develop Heat-Resistant Nanoporous Membrane Industry has long relied upon energy-intensive processes, such as distillation and crystallization, to separate molecules that ultimately serve as ingredients in medicine, chemicals and other products.

In recent decades, there has been a push to supplant these processes with membranes, which are potentially a lower-cost and eco-friendly alternative. Unfortunately, most membranes are made from polymers that degrade during use, making them impractical.

To solve this problem, a University at Buffalo-led research team has created a new, sturdier membrane that can withstand harsh environments – high temperatures, high pressure and complex chemical solvents – associated with industrial separation processes.

Made from an inorganic material called carbon-doped metal oxide, it is described in a study published Sept. 7, 2023, in Science.

“The processes of separating molecules – whether for water desalination, the production of medicine or fertilizers – use an incredible amount of energy,” said corresponding author Miao Yu, SUNY Empire Innovation Professor in the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, School of Engineering and Applied Sciences.

“What we have developed is a technique to easily fabricate defectfree, strong membranes that have rigid nanopores that can be precisely controlled to allow different-sized molecules to pass through,” added Yu, a core faculty member in the UB RENEW Institute.

To create the membrane, the research team took inspiration from two common, but unrelated, manufacturing techniques. The first is molecular layer deposition, which involves layering thin films of materials and is most often associated with semiconductor production.

The second technique is interfacial polymerization, which is a method of combining chemicals that is commonly used to create fuel cells, chemical sensors and other electronics.

The Nonwovens Institute Expands ISO-Accredited Filtration Testing Lab NWI’s Filtration Testing Lab includes ISO 17025-accredited test methods, as well as a full suite of filtration testing equipment.

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p The images above detail how the membrane forms. The three vertical images on the left show the bonds between titanium tetrachloride (metallic reactant) and ethylene glycol (organic reactant). The center image shows how the two materials combine. The images to the right side show the membrane without pores (dense OHF) and the membrane after carbon has been removed to create pores (porous CDTO).

Illustration courtesy of UB

“These methods are not new,” says Sengupta, “however the manner in which we apply them is, and that is the key to creating our new nanoporous membranes.”

In experiments, researchers merged two low-cost reactants – liquid ethylene glycol and gaseous titanium tetrachloride – on an aluminumbased support. Within minutes, the reaction created a thin film.

To create the nanopores, they applied heat to the film. The heat burns off carbon, creating tiny, microscopic holes for molecules to pass through. The size of the nanopores can be anywhere from 0.6 to 1.2 nanometers in diameter – as determined by the calcination gas environment, as well as the amount and duration of heat.

The method allows researchers to avoid a nagging problem – small holes merging into larger ones, thus making them more porous than intended – by creating polymer-based membranes. www.buffalo.edu

The Nonwovens Institute (NWI) announced its newly expanded Filtration Testing Lab, featuring services for facemasks and respirators, along with filter media for automotive, HEPA and HVAC applications. Importantly, NWI’s Filtration Testing Lab is A2LA Accredited for ISO 17025*, enabling it to meet NIOSH requirements for testing materials used in respirators, and it is outfitted with equipment to perform ASTM F2299 testing for the measurement of Particle Filtration Efficiency (PFE) at 0.1 microns.

In addition to NWI’s Filtration Testing Lab, NWI offers a fully equipped Analytical and Physical Testing Lab with more than 60 tests available for nonwoven materials. NWI also offers lab- and pilot-scale capabilities for Fiber Spinning, Meltblown, Spunbond and Hydroentangling, Staple/Carded Nonwovens, among others. www.thenonwovensinstitute.com

Customized Dispensing Systems and Reactive Resins RAMPF Group, Inc. presented its dispensing systems and reactive resins for sealing, casting, and bonding filters and filter elements for fast and efficient production processes at FiltXPO 2023 this fall.

There are several materials used in filter manufacturing – from two-component polyurethane gaskets for frames, one- and two-component epoxies to solid or foamed polyurethanes for potting panels and end caps. Each material requires a dispensing system that best fits its chemical and mechanical properties.

RAMPF is a leading supplier of high-performance machines for mixing and dispensing single-, dual-, and multi-component reactive resins. The company has developed more than 3,300 system solutions

worldwide – from simple manual systems through to fully automated production plants.

The company offers a wide range of metering pumps and dispensing heads as well as automated work cells that include robotic dispensing and parthandling, conveyors systems, curing equipment, hot-melt stiffening, laser marking, and testing.

Service and spare parts are provided from the RAMPF head office in Wixom, MI. The company also offers contract manufacturing for customers who have immediate requirements, prototype needs, or smaller part volumes. Part builds are supported from either Wixom or the RAMPF site in Suwanee, GA.

www.rampf-group.com

CLEANR Debuts Powerful New Washing Machine Filters CLEANR, a new greentech venture based in the U.S., recently unveiled its powerful new internal and external-retrofit microplastic filters for washing machines at the world’s largest appliance industry conference, IFA Berlin.

Washing machine wastewater is the single largest source of microplastic pollution globally, accounting for 35% of emissions.

CLEANR’s nature-inspired technology has consistently outperformed the market in manufacturer-testing and is the first solution proven to meet upcoming French regulatory requirements, including microplastics capture efficiency and usability. CLEANR’s filters capture more than 90% of microplastics down to 50-microns in size and are highly user-friendly, where microplastics removal is easy, dry and takes less than 30 seconds per week and maintenance takes less than two minutes per month.

For washing machine manufacturers, the solution is cost-effective and integrates into virtually any washing machine model due to its simplicity and small size: the technology requires no additional pumps and can be separated into two parts to accommodate washing machine models with tight interior space limitations.

“CLEANR’s core technology, VORTX, is powered by a novel vortex filtration process that was inspired by nature and delivers 300% higher efficiency than traditional filters,” said Max Pennington, CLEANR’s CEO. “This enables our filters to handle three times as many wash-loads as others before filter-cleaning, operate with no electrical pumps, and trap the smallest microfibers.”

www.cleanr.life

Camfil USA Air Filtration Launches AirImage-COR – Corrosion Control Monitoring Camfil announced the launch of the AirImage-COR, the latest innovation in corrosion control monitoring. Real-time corrosion monitoring and technology that enables users to act before having to react. Corrosion is a natural process that occurs when metals react with molecular contaminants in the air. Metal surfaces gradually deteriorate and compromise the integrity of electronic components.

Electrical equipment is essential to the continuous operation of data centers, wastewater treatment facilities, petrochemical refineries, renewable energy plants, and now the emerging EV battery market. These industries all rely on automation processes to improve safety and reliability. Corrosion leads to unscheduled downtime, costly repairs, loss of revenue, and increased safety risks. The impact of corrosion extends beyond electronics.

Collections in museums and archives are extremely sensitive to corrosion due to the presence of acidic gases. Gas concentrations in such buildings may be low, but long-term exposure can lead to expensive restorations or even irreversible damage.

www.camfil.com

ISSUE 6 2023 FILTNEWS.COM 9

TRENDSETTERS

2023

Innovation Action IN

Bringing New Ideas to the Filtration Marketplace

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iStock/Peshkova

C

ompanies supporting filtration are investing in research and development to meet sustainability goals and to bring new ideas to the table for enhanced filtration solutions. Sustainable innovation takes making intentional changes to generate long-term social and environmental benefits and improve the quality of solutions. These can include responsible sourcing, using materials that are primarily bio-based or from feedstocks drawing on regenerative, and/or sustainable agriculture principles to advance circularity; and viable end-of-life solutions – incorporating materials that are either recyclable or biodegradable. Other advancements also include extending the life of products or changing processes to save resources.

We asked companies to submit their most recent advancements, and we are pleased to highlight the following companies and their achievements.

EVALUATION OF ZENGUARD MERV9 FILTERS: Impact on Outdoor Air Requirements and Operational Carbon Footprint in Buildings

By D. Sridhar, R. Shacklock, C. van der Kuur

Method and Discussion

A space of 10,000 ft2, with a ceiling height of 10 ft, and airflow of 5,000 CFM is considered for this study, which is of ideal size to modify into different occupancy types.

An occupancy of 75 (133.3 ft2/person) is considered for all occupancy types. Further, to understand the effect of occupancy density in an office space; 70, 133.3, 200, and 300 ft2/person were used. The minimum required OA% is calculated as per ASHRAE 62.1 guidelines6 for four occupancy categories; office space, bank, warehouse, and gym. These were specifically considered as the people outdoor air rate (Rp) and the outdoor air rate (Ra) for these categories encompass a wide range of occupancy categories. An infection risk calculator used in this work was developed to quantify different scenarios and is similar to the calculations found in the literature using a binomial distribution7 model but with

certain modifications. One key adaptation includes equivalent clean air, which is emphasized in ASHRAE 2418, which includes fresh OA and the percentage of air that is virus-free from air recycled through the HVAC filter based on the filters VFE and accounting for various virus removal rates, with a focus on the SARS-COVID19. The model assumes that 10% of the occupants are infected.

Viral filtration efficiency introduced into this model was experimentally determined using a horizontal testing chamber for both coated (ZenGUARD) and uncoated MERV9 filters with dimensions 24”x24”x2”, and 120

1A.

OA%

80 60

40%

40

20% 0%

80%

20 Office space

Bank

Warehouse

Gym

0

120

1B.

100

60%

80 60

40%

40

20% 0%

CO2eq, t/year

100

60%

CO2eq, t/year

80%

OA%

T

he annual global building sector is comprised of 242 billion square meters of floor space which produces operational emissions estimated to be ca. 10 GtCO2, and to reach net zero carbon we will require advancement in existing technologies to reduce building emissions1. To put this in perspective, the Canadian province of Ontario alone plans to construct 1.5 million homes in the next 10 years2. Buildings account for approximately 39% of energy-related global CO2 emissions; specifically, 11% is materials used for building and construction, while the remaining 28% comes from operational carbon, resulting from the heating, cooling, lighting and power associated with such systems3. The field of Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) offers opportunities for such improvements, as HVAC systems often dominate a building's operational energy use.

A crucial aspect in this domain is air filters, especially post SARS-COVID-19 pandemic due to increased emphasis on indoor air quality to reduce the spread of airborne pathogens. ZenGUARD4 coated filter medium with patented graphene-based antiviral ink5, enhances the viral filtration efficiency (VFE) of the existing filters, thus requiring less outdoor air (OA) to maintain a determined pathogen-free equivalent clean air, which leads to reduced heating and cooling loads. They need no special adaptation to use in existing HVAC units and offer no additional pressure impedance to the airflow.

This work aims to quantify the effect of ZenGUARD coated MERV9 filters’ enhanced VFE over uncoated MERV9 filters in terms of OA% and CO2 equivalent for various building occupancy types, while ensuring comparable indoor transmission rates of infectious viruses.

20 70

133.33 200 ft2/person

300

0

 Figure 1. For the discussed footprint and ventilation in this work; the minimum recommended OA% as per ASHRAE 62.1 calculated for ZenGUARD-coated MERV9, and the corresponding calculated OA% to maintain a similar infection rate using uncoated MERV9 filter: (A) for various occupancy categories (bar chart) and associated calculated CO2eq (scatter plot); (B) for different occupancy densities in an office space (bar chart) and associated calculated CO2eq (scatter plot). ZenGUARD-coated MERV9 and uncoated MERV9 are shown in purple and lavender colours respectively. CO2eq/year is calculated to theoretically heat or cool air by 20 °C for the calculated OA%.

15 pleats per linear foot, and bacteriophage Phi6 was used as the test organism. Tests have shown that coating with ZenGUARD antiviral ink does not change the pressure drop or the MERV rating of the filters. These results are not discussed as it is outside the scope of this article. VFE was experimentally determined along with dust loading for 0,1,2,3,6 months and an average ISSUE 6 2023 FILTNEWS.COM 11

TRENDSETTERS

VFE was estimated for 6 months duration by linear interpolation for every single month. The estimated average VFE for coated and uncoated MERV9 filters were ca. 67% and 44% and were integrated into the infection risk model. Unlike other coated filters9, ZenGUARD’s viral filtration ability has been experimentally evaluated to not decrease with dust loading and increases more on a relative basis compared to the uncoated MERV9 filter10. The OA% of ZenGUARD-coated MERV9 was first determined using ASHRAE 62.16 for the given occupancy type and space. This was then incorporated into the model along with other building operation variables to determine the infection risk rate. This computed infection risk was then used in the same model to find the required OA% using an uncoated MERV9 filter. The CO2eq is estimated by calculating the energy required to heat/cool the outdoor air by 20 °C over a year and using the national U.S. average CO2 emissions per kWh for electricity generation11. Other energy costs related to air handling unit operations or zoning of building spaces are not considered in this work to focus only on the OA temperature adjustment scenario and its general quantification to CO2eq.

Figure 1A shows the calculated OA% for ZenGUARD MERV9 following ASHRAE 62.1 guidelines for the building size described in this work, and the calculated OA% required to maintain the same infection risk using an uncoated MERV9. The required OA% nearly doubles when uncoated MERV filters are used for all occupancy categories except for gyms, where the increase is about References: 1. United Nations Environment ProModel calculations of aerosol transmisgramme, “2022 Global Status Report sion and infection risk of COVID-19 in for Buildings and Construction: Towards indoor environments. Int. J. Environ. a Zero‑emission, Efficient and Resilient Res. Public Health. 17, 1–18 (2020).

Buildings and Construction Sector” 8. ASHRAE, “Control of infectious (2022), (available at https://wedocs. aerosols: ASHRAE Standard 241-2023” unep.org/20.500.11822/41133.).

(Atlanta, 2023).

2. More Homes Built Faster (2022), 9. Y. H. Joe, D. H. Park, J. Hwang, Evalua(available at https://www.ontario.ca/ tion of Ag nanoparticle coated air filter page/more-homes-built-faster). against aerosolized virus: Anti-viral 3. “Bringing embodied carbon upfront: efficiency with dust loading. J. Hazard.

Coordinated action for the building and Mater. 301, 547–553 (2016). construction sector to tackle embodied 10. Zentek Ltd., Zentek Announces carbon” (London, 2019), (available Breakthrough Results in Viral Filtration at https://www.worldgbc.org/sites/ Efficiency with Dust Loading (2023), default/files/WorldGBC_Bringing_ (available at https://www.zentek.com/ Embodied_Carbon_Upfront.pdf). news/zentek-announces-breakthrough4. Home | Zentek Ltd., (available at results-in-viral-filtration-efficiencyhttps://www.zentek.com/). with-dust-loading/).

5. A. Hadidi, C. Van Der Kuur, J. Korkis, 11. How much carbon dioxide is produced D. Sridhar, Graphene-silver nanoper kilowatthour of U.S. electricity composites and uses for same as an generation? U.S. Energy Inf. Adm. antimicrobial composition (2021).

(2022), (available at https://www.eia.

6. ASHRAE, “Ventilation and acceptable gov/tools/faqs/faq.php?id=74&t=11). indoor air quality: ASHRAE Standard 12. H. Ritchie, Which form of transport 62.1–2022” (ASHRAE, Atlanta, 2022). has the smallest carbon footprint?

7. J. Lelieveld, F. Helleis, S. Borrmann, Our World Data (2023), (available at Y. Cheng, F. Drewnick, G. Haug, T. https://ourworldindata.org/travelKlimach, J. Sciare, H. Su, U. Pöschl, carbon-footprint).

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15%, which is still significant considering high metabolic activity in these spaces that demand significant ventilation. This result translates to savings of ca. 32.5, 30.8, 29.1 and 14.5 tonnes/year of CO2eq for the above-defined office space, bank, warehouse, and gym respectively.

A similar trend can be expected if higher MERV-rated filters are coated with ZenGUARD, with no additional pressure drops or mechanical fittings that are used for uncoated filters. It should be further noted that MERV ratings are estimated using ASHRAE 52.2 guidelines and are limited to particle efficiency, thus an additional VFE for the desired filter will be required for a full analysis if other filters need to be studied.

In Figure 1B, considering the office space type of occupancy category, with occupancy density of 70, 133.3, 200 and 300 ft2/person, the OA requirement is lower for less-dense occupations, with the use of ZenGUARD coated or uncoated filters, which is expected. Additionally, the OA increment between the use of coated and uncoated MERV9 filters is substantial and becomes more pronounced and plateaus as the occupancy density decreases. This result translates to a saving of ca. 29.8, 32.5, 33.9 and 33.6 tonnes/year of CO2eq for the above-mentioned occupancy densities respectively. Drawing a parallel to the transportation sector, 33.6 tonnes CO2eq/year is almost equal to a savings of 197,647 kilometres of petrol car driving12.

Conclusion This study highlights the effectiveness of ZenGUARD coated filters in achieving improved indoor air quality without an increase in energy consumption.

The ZenGUARD MERV9 filter provides significant advantages in terms of improved indoor air quality and environmental sustainability when compared to an uncoated equivalent. ZenGUARD is versatile, suitable for integration with almost any air filter, and delivers superior VFE without incurring additional capital costs or causing pressure impedance to airflow. As a result, buildings equipped with ZenGUARD filters require less OA, leading to decreased fan usage and considerable energy and CO2 savings. Such reductions are critical for advancing toward net-zero operational carbon in buildings. Adopting ZenGUARD should be a strategic move for those aiming to construct energy-efficient buildings, particularly when leveraging existing air-handling infrastructure. Moreover, this technology is cost-effective and can seamlessly align with current building codes with minimal modifications. www.zentek.com We acknowledge LMS Technologies, Inc., Bloomington, USA for the VFE analysis of our air filters. Special thanks to Dr. Paul Lebbin of the National Research Council Canada and his team for the phase one testing of filters for viral filtration activity ZenGUARD. Additionally, we extend our sincere appreciation to Zentek’s Research, Product Development and Manufacturing teams for their efforts in ZenGUARD filter development and production.

Ultrasonic Lamination Is a Truly Green Process

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eckmann Converting, Inc., the toll converter envelope of opportunity using ultrasonic bonding technology to laminate for the product designer textile composites of nonwovens and other mato take advantage of this terials, contributes to the sustainability initiatives of green technology. its customers.

Staff communicates closely with customer R&D and “Through constant communications with custommanufacturing groups to coordinate dimensions, both ers and the continuous improvement processes in widths and lengths, of raw material rolls to minimize our Quality Management System, the Beckmann Conwaste and scrap. The company works with several verting team is attentive to sustainability in all that waste management companies to continually identify we do. Our customers tell us this focus helps deliver new opportunities for recycling and re-use of all trims important value to them by maintaining the outcomes and offcuts that are unavoidable on a laminating proof their own sustainability programs,” Ray Piascik, Direcgram. In some cases, customers arrange for collection tor of Marketing and Sales, Beckmann Converting, Inc. and shipment of waste materials back to their own Ultrasonic laminating, by nature, is a highly susrecycling stream. tainable process. It consumes a low amount of energy compared to other laminating techniques. Only the raw materials of the composite are used to form the bonding links at the laminate weld points – no adhesives or chemicals are added to achieve lamination. Highly uniform, consistent textile composites can be manufactured without degradation of the individual layers due to excessive heat or pressure, or by adhesives. All of this combines to maximize performance of the end-product, making it ideal for health care, filtration, and other applications where potential contamination is of concern.

Ultrasonic lamination uses conversion of acoustic energy to heat to form spot welds of specific size in exact locations, determined by the pattern of the bonding roll, across the laminated webs. This technique  The layers of raw material are arranged and brought together as in any traditional lamination process to pass over a is an ideal method to join layers of central rotating roll or “anvil.” Ultrasonic laminating uses an embossed pattern on the anvil or “pattern” roll. Each peak is different or similar materials (non- the site of an individual weld through all layers of the lamination. The peaks are exactly shaped and located to yield the wovens, films, composites, or fabrics) desired size and location of the weld. into a single composite or laminate.

Bonding occurs very quickly, and with repeatability All of the company’s laminating equipment has resulting in visual uniformity. With attentive design of inline slitting capabilities, eliminating the need for the laminating process to meet specification requiresecondary operations to prepare the finished laminate ments for a given composite, non-compliant finished for “downstream” converting steps. material product can be virtually eliminated.

Customers can have confidence that investments The team at Beckmann Converting builds upon this they make in sustainability of their products will core sustainability in several ways. Most laminates not be lessened as a result of the ultrasonic laminatbonded ultrasonically contain no more than three ing process. In fact, they can rely upon Beckmann or four layers. Beckmann’s equipment and processConverting to work closely with them to enhance the es enable up to seven different layers, opening the gains that they’ve made. www.beckmannconverting.com ISSUE 6 2023 FILTNEWS.COM 13

TRENDSETTERS

A More Efficient Absorbent Boom Launched to Rapidly Contain Oil Spills and Speed the Recovery of the Surrounding Marine Environment

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ooms, in the context of environmental protection, are physical barriers deployed in bodies of water to contain or control the movement of pollutants, debris, or other materials. Sorbent booms are primarily designed to absorb oil spills on the water’s surface, preventing the spread of oil and minimizing environmental damage. As an industry leader in spill control (including sorbent booms) and technical nonwovens, FyterTech Nonwovens now offers three different types of booms – Open Net Boom, Sock-InNet Boom and the recently launched AquaSpill Rapid Recovery Boom, as shown below.

AquaSpill Rapid Recovery Boom (as shown in Picture 1A) looks like most other commercially available boom. But, its construction is unlike any other sorbent boom on the market (as seen in Picture 1B). Sorbent boom, much like sorbent pads and rolls, relies not only on absorption but also on adsorption mechanism – where the spilled fluid is attracted to the spill control product’s available surface area. The AquaSpill Rapid Recovery Boom significantly improves performance and efficacy by creating many layers and crevices of additional beneficial surface area – leading to a much faster and more efficient oil spill response tool.

Traditional booms typically have a sleeve, or a plastic netting filled with meltblown polypropylene fluff, shredded pieces, or scrap. Although this gives it a more uniform shape, it does limit the oil spill’s access to all the absorbent material inside. The highly efficient AquaSpill Rapid Recovery Boom easily outperforms not only our other Spilfyter booms, but also all our major competitors as shown in the graph below:

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Booming Benefits AquaSpill Rapid Recovery Boom will have a significant impact on accelerating oil spill response and cleanup efforts. Here are some of the potential benefits and impacts: 1. Rapid Containment: Faster absorbing booms can quickly surround and contain oil spills, preventing the spread of oil to larger areas. By deploying these booms promptly, the initial containment can be achieved more efficiently, reducing the potential environmental impact, and allowing for quicker cleanup operations.

2. Increased Efficiency: The faster absorption rate (as indicated in the graph above) of these booms allows for more efficient oil recovery. As the oil is absorbed more quickly, it can be removed from the water surface at a faster pace, facilitating a more rapid and effective cleanup process. This can help to minimize the overall duration of the cleanup operation and reduce the potential long-term environmental consequences.

3. Enhanced Environmental Protection: By containing and absorbing oil spills rapidly, faster absorbing booms help to protect and speed the recovery of sensitive ecosystems and wildlife. They limit the spread of oil, reducing the potential for contamination of coastal areas, wetlands, and other environmentally sensitive habitats. This can help mitigate the impact on marine and coastal wildlife, including birds, fish, and marine mammals.

4. Improved Safety for Response Teams: Faster oil spill absorbing booms can contribute to the safety of cleanup workers. By accelerating the absorption of oil, the exposure time for workers who are i nvolved in the cleanup operation can be reduced. This minimizes their contact with hazardous materials and potentially harmful substances, improving their safety and well-being during the cleanup process.

5. C ost Efficiency: Faster oil spill absorbing booms can also lead to cost savings by reducing the overall time required to remove the surface oil from the affected area. This can benefit both the organizations responsible for the cleanup and the taxpayers who may bear the financial burden.

 Picture 1A: Left, AquaSpill Rapid Recovery Boom. 1B: Right, its unique construction offers many layers and crevices of additional beneficial surface area, leading to a much faster and more efficient oil spill response tool.

Larger Impacts Speeding up the recovery of the surrounding ecosystem is of utmost importance. You can easily extrapolate the benefits of a more efficient absorbent boom to the many environmental issues that concern our world including the protection of marine life and habitats as well as the mitigation of pollution in our oceans and major bodies of water.

AquaSpill Rapid Recovery Boom can play a crucial role in protecting marine life by minimizing the spread and impact of oil spills. Oil spills can have toxic effects on marine life, including fish, sea birds, shellfish, and other aquatic organisms. By quickly containing and absorbing

the oil within a confined area, the booms limit the exposure of marine organisms to the harmful substances present in the oil. This reduces the risk of immediate and long-term damage to their health and ecosystems.

By absorbing the spill faster, you can also limit the spread of pollution, ease cleanup efforts and allow response teams to focus on rehabilitation and recovery sooner. Effective and efficient oil spill response, facilitated by the fastest absorbent booms, demonstrates a commitment to environmental responsibility. This commitment to responsible practices and protecting the environment will positively influence public perception and stakeholder relationships.

It’s important to note that while faster absorbing booms can offer significant advantages, they are just one component of a comprehensive oil spill response plan. Effective oil spill response requires a combination of strategies, including containment, recovery, and proper disposal of the collected oil. Furthermore, prevention measures and stringent safety protocols should be in place to minimize the occurrence of oil spills and protect the environment proactively. Besides, the effectiveness of booms also depends on factors such as prompt deployment, proper installation, and appropriate maintenance. www.liquidsafety.com

CLEARLY SUPERIOR FILTRATION Now offering ASME-Code Certified Housings Proudly Made in the USA SHELCO.COM 100 Bradley Street, Middletown, CT info@shelco.com • 1.800.543.5843 ISO 9001:2015

ISSUE 6 2023 FILTNEWS.COM 15

TRENDSETTERS

Bekaert Bekipor® Filtration Media Performance

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iltration of hydraulic fluid is a key process in many industries, such as aerospace, mining, construction and others. It ensures the cleanliness and performance of hydraulic systems, which can be greatly affected by contaminants and corrosion. However, conventional filter media, such as glass fiber or cellulose, have limitations in terms of efficiency, durability and disposal.

Bekaert Bekipor® filtration media is a porous web of sintered, stainless steel fibers that can be used for various filtration applications. It can be made of different alloys and have a monolayer or multilayer graded structure. It can also be pleated and welded to create flexible filter elements.

This filtration technology offers several advantages over traditional media in hydraulic filtration. This robust media ensures fluid cleanliness even under harsh operating conditions like vibrations, high dust load, temperature and pressure. Moreover, metal fiber media offline cleaning of metallic hydraulic filters had been proven and can extend the filter usability. As shown in plot below, cleaning can be optimized to decrease its environmental impact per gram of cumulated caught dust. After a low number of reuses, metal fiber filter

becomes less impactful than typical disposable hydraulic incumbent filter. Metal fiber media is fully recyclable, as the steel fibers can be separated from the filter element and reused for other purposes. This reduces the environmental impact of disposal and supports the circular economy. In contrast, conventional filter media often require incineration or landfilling, which generate greenhouse gas emissions and waste.

Bekipor® media is a responsible filtration technology that outperforms conventional media in terms of efficiency, durability and recyclability. www.bekaert.com

International Filtration News

covers the topics and technologies that will shape the future of filtration and separation.

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Using subject matter experts from all parts of the industry, IFN is the leading source for the dialogues, debates and innovations across the full spectrum of filtration and separation applications and processes.

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16 IFN ISSUE 6 2023

CONTACT Advertising@Inda.Media TO DISCUSS YOUR 2024 MEDIA PLAN!

1

EcoStatic® Filter Media by Lanaco – Making Natural Possible in Air Filtration

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ntroducing EcoStatic Filter Media by Lanaco, their flagship wool-based electrostatic air filter media, which has recently earned certification under the USDA BioPreferred® program. Lanaco's success in sustainability is anchored in its use of New Zealand wool as the primary material in its product range.

Unlike conventional filter media, wool is renewable and ethically sourced, with fully biodegradable finished filter options available, depending on applications and local regulations.

EcoStatic Filter Media combines wool’s natural ability to capture and retain particles with Lanaco’s proprietary technology to create a high-efficiency and low pressure drop product. The filter media is sanitary and safe to handle, as it is safely used in respiratory filters. This makes the product safer to replace and dispose of than traditional filter media which can often contain harmful byproducts such as PFAS or formaldehyde. Safety has also been a consideration for NASA’s Artemis Program, as the Orion spacecraft emergency breathing apparatus is equipped with EcoStatic pre-filters in the event of a fire.

EcoStatic is engineered to maximize the unique wool fibre properties that enhance filtration efficiency while minimizing energy consumption. This makes EcoStatic a top choice for industries where air quality is critical,

with options from 50 to 500 gsm. The USDA BioPreferred certification further reinforces its eco-credentials where several of the EcoStatic products have been certified to have biobased content, helping to reduce the world’s reliance on synthetic materials.

As a company, Lanaco commits to sustainability with transparency. The company ensures the entire supply chain is not only eco-friendly but also traceable. By collaborating closely with local farmers through the Astino® Wool Programme, Lanaco maintains oversight on the entire wool sourcing process from the pasture to the final filter media product. This means that Lanaco can guarantee the ethical treatment of animals and the ecofriendly nature of the farming practices. Lanaco also actively reduces waste, energy consumption, and emissions through lean manufacturing practices. www.lanaco.co.nz

Mogul Nonwovens: Advancing Sustainable Manufacturing Sustainable Innovation & Responsible Sourcing

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ogul Nonwovens advances environmental and social responsibility throughout our organization, including our manufacturing processes. We educate our employees about sustainable practices and strive to utilize fewer natural resources and raw materials during production. We apply transparency and traceability in our production processes, products and in our supply chain.

Reducing water, energy and chemical consumption helps us achieve more sustainable manufacturing with our state-of-the-art technology. Mogul Nonwovens also works hard to minimize waste and lower carbon emissions by reducing greenhouse gases.

At Mogul, we’re committed to advancing and placing sustainability at the center of everything we do. Our strategy is based on two main boulevards: Sustainable processes to produce our products, and manufacturing products that are based on natural fibers, biopolymers and circular products that are recyclable and biodegradable.

We incorporate natural, bio-based, biodegradable, recycled and sustainable materials with our advanced manufacturing technology. We are proud to certify our products as sustainably produced in order to mitigate the effects on the environment.

We supply natural, sustainable products under the brand of Mogul Naturals: Cotton, linen, hemp, and fiber-containing spunlace fabrics. We also supply biodegradable and sustainable products under the Biomol brand: spunlace fabrics produced using Viscose, Bamboo, Tencel, PLA, BioPET fibers.

Our recyclable, sustainable products under the REMOG brand name are: Spunlace, Spunbond and Microfilament fabrics containing Polypropylene and Polyester raw materials.

We document all our work on sustainability and all the products we produce with our ISO 14001, ISO 50001, OEKO-TEX, GRS, RCS, FSC, PEFC certificates that are valid worldwide. We continuously update and improve our sustainability approach in line with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals and ILO standards. www.mogulsb.com

ISSUE 6 2023 FILTNEWS.COM 17

COATING

Sustainably Shaping the Future

of the Flame Retardant Market

By Joe Kennard

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he use of flame retardemand for more products dants is a societal to meet current and future c o nu n d r u m . Th e flame retardant standards. need to protect human Manufacturers can’t simply life and property from state that their products fire is the foundation for contain a flame retardant the use of flame retar– the filters must meet dants. The protection of specific flame retardant human life also brings test standards over the life into consideration the cycle of the filters. sustainable environmental impact that f lame Flame Retardants for retardants may present.

Filtration Media Balancing the chemistry While there is still deto protect human life in mand and a place for a sustainable manner is low-cost flame retardant the challenge that evsalts, non-durable flame eryone must embrace. retardant coatings, and Antimony and haloflame retardant coatgen s ( bromin e and ings containing heavy chlorine) have been metals and halogens, used for several decades companies concerned p The Stahl full life cycle of flame-retardant solutions has been evaluated from initial production as cost-effective flame through recycling at the end of consumer product life. Stahl’s flame-retardant solutions have been with producing sustainretardants. In recent deemed safe for continued use, making them the durable and reliable choice. Stahl able filtration media are times, these chemistries moving forward with have drawn the attention of groups concerned primarily with the new sustainable chemistries. Stahl currently has multiple flame impact on mankind’s health because of environmental concerns. retardant additives and coatings that have been designed specifiAs new chemistries are developed, there may be tradeoffs in terms cally for filtration media manufacturers who are focused on develof efficiency, cost, and performance; however, the protection oping new sustainable filtration media. Although these products of human life must be the primary focus when developing new have been designed for 100% cellulosic media, they can also be consumer products. used on some cellulosic/synthetic blends.

Many governments will continue to mandate or legislate Additional R&D work is focused on bio-based chemistries, additional flame retardant standards for filters or environments polymeric fire retardant systems, synergistic action between s where filters are used. History has shown that the flame retardant ustainable elemental chemistries. Stahl has already successfully standards continue to evolve to more stringent requirements and/ incorporated bio-based chemistries in several polymers (as recogor additional requirements to guide manufacturers to provide nized by the EcoVadis Platinum award) and this provides a basis the best technology to better protect the end users. Additionally, for the development of the next generation of sustainable polythe litigation environment is another driver that is affecting the mers that can be used in the filtration market. Looking “outside

18 IFN ISSUE 6 2023

the box” at other elemental synergies is a deep dive that must be taken to allow the filtration market to meet the sustainable goals of the most forward-thinking companies in the filtration industry. This approach will result in market-changing criteria within the filtration market that will provide the end user with an environmental friendlier filter.

The long-term use of antimony-bromine fire retardant chemistries for filtration media is coming to an end due to the environmental concerns attributed to antimony and bromines. Whether we agree with the conclusions attributed to these chemistries, Stahl is committed to developing and providing the sustainable fire retardant chemistries that will meet the needs of the filtration market. Balancing the performance requirements along with the economics and sustainability demands is a challenge that is best suited for an integrated approach with individual filter media manufacturers and end uses.

During this transitional phase, Stahl still provides conventional flame retardant additives and coatings.

The fitness for use requirements, such as fire retardancy, pleatability, pleat retention, high temperature exposure to inservice environments, water resistance, color, stiffness, dust holding ability, pressure drop, etc. are best addressed individually for specific end uses. Filter manufacturers must also be a part of the decision-making process in addressing the conversion to the new sustainable flame retardant coating systems to allow the best fit chemistries for their specific needs.

With an understanding that this transition will likely require modifications to the fitness for use criteria or pricing structure, the filtration industry can move forward with more sustainable filters.

The new filtration media must have a visual identifier that all can see that separates the sustainable filters from the conventional filters. This will provide end users the ability to easily identify the sustainable filters from the conventional filters and thus allow the market to dictate the desire and speed at which the filtration industry moves to the new sustainable filters.

Joe Kennard has served in various roles of R&D, Manufacturing, and Sales & Marketing in the Flame Retardant, Polymer, & Coatings industry. During this time, Joe has developed new products and new business opportunities for many end uses including the filtration market. Currently serving at Stahl as the North American Market Manager for Eagle Flame Retardants, Joe is deeply focused on the development of new, sustainable flame-retardant additives, flame retardant coatings, and flame-retardant adhesives. Contact Joe at +1 302-542-3414 or joe.kennard@stahl.com for more information.

Stahl is a specialty manufacturer of polymers, coatings, adhesives, and fire retardants. Recipient of the EcoVadis Platinum award, Stahl is committed to developing sustainable flame-retardant additives, coatings, and polymers for many years.

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ISSUE 6 2023 FILTNEWS.COM 19

TESTING

How Coronavirus Advanced Filtration Efficiency AND THE INDUSTRY

By Nikki Sasher

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eople spend 90% of their time in indoor environments, making air quality one of the most profound health implications for the world’s population. Addressing this global public health concern requires a clear understanding of the transmission processes of infections by developing and implementing targeted infection prevention and control measures.

Worldwide outbreaks of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and other viral agents have caused a substantial health impact on the population and have increased public concerns about the spread of viral disease. The global pandemic caused by the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, which caused the disease known as COVID-19, has changed the world in ways no one could have imagined. There is much more to learn about this ever-changing global threat. However, some aspects of the virus are known, such as its main route of transmission being that of an airborne nature. Therefore, there is a strong effort to mitigate risk to

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the general population through the use of engineering controls such as improved air filtration.

A Word on Particles As it relates to human health, particles with a diameter of 10 microns or less (≤ PM10) can penetrate and lodge inside the lungs. Particles with a diameter of 2.5 microns or less (PM2.5) can penetrate deeply into the lungs, particles less than 0.5 microns in size can pass through the blood/gas barrier and enter the bloodstream, and chronic exposure to particles contributes to the risk of developing cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, as well as lung cancer.

Particles can be viable or non-viable in nature. Viable particles contain one or more living organisms such as bacteria or fungi, and their size generally ranges from 0.2-30 microns. Viable particles can survive and replicate independently. Nonviable particles include particles that commonly consist of a complex mixture of solid and liquid particles of organic and inorganic substances suspended in air.

Viruses are in a different classification, in that they are parasitic, not free-living or able to transport themselves, and require a transport particle followed by a host to survive and replicate. Non-viable particles are the main source of movement for all other particles and are commonly referred to as transport particles.

Background on Viral Testing at AAF Clean AIR Center In 2015, the University of Minnesota developed a test to evaluate filter performance using a 50-nanometer swine virus, an adaptation of the ASHRAE 52.2 (2012) method, and molecular virology to quantify the percent reduction of virus with mechanical capture based on transport particles entrapped within filter media.

The goal of this study was to develop a standardized method to evaluate filter performance against a virus of interest in the swine industry and ultimately provide producers with a procedure to evaluate filter efficiency.

In 2018, before the coronavirus pandemic, AAF Flanders worked with the

Above, Nikki Sasher works in her lab area created during the COVID-19 pandemic to study particles and filtration. At left, AAF Clean AIR Center testing facility includes rows of filtration equipment that simulate various controlled environments to test filter effectiveness. AAF Flanders

University of Minnesota to replicate this academic test and apply it to industry. This test was fully replicated and implemented in AAF Clean AIR Center’s Biological Laboratory as a first in the air filtration industry-test capability. Testing was originally done on viruses endemic to pigs, similar to that of the University of Minnesota, due to a growing concern for virus spread and an increase in filtration in animal husbandry.

The test is conducted using a modified ASHRAE 52.2 standard method, where a standardized ASHRAE test duct is utilized, and filters of different efficiencies are challenged with an aerosolized solution of potassium chloride (KCL) particles tagged with a fluorescent dye and the virus of interest in vaccine form. The system operates between 650-1968 cfm, depending on the industry under evaluation, and aerosols were generated using a high-volume aerosol generator.

Air samples were collected upstream and downstream of the filter using Anderson Cascade Impactors with sizes ranging from 0.3-10 um. Virus particles, KCl, and fluorescent tracer dye are physically captured on impactor plates, and the virus is subsequently removed and purified to quantify using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and a fluorometer to estimate the mass of the particles. For each particle size, the removal efficiency was calculated (National Hog Farmer, 2015).

The results at both the University of Minnesota and AAF were reproducible and proved, that under the conditions of the study, filter efficiency for a virus was similar to the ASHRAE 52.2 tested efficiency of a filter (Schulz, 2019).

At the beginning of the pandemic, the question was posed “Could a member of the coronavirus family also be filtered out of the airstream?” AAF Clean AIR Center scientists and engineers drew on previous research to quickly develop a test plan using a safe surrogate virus with properties similar to those of SARS-CoV-2. For this study, the Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea virus (PEDV) was chosen since it is the same 120-nanometer size and spherical structure and behaves similarly in aerosol according to transport particle capture.

The Clean AIR Center’s Biological Research Department launched a study utilizing a safe surrogate for the SARSCoV-2 virus to evaluate the virus removal efficiency of several filters ranging in efficiency ratings from MERV 14 to HEPA. Filters were challenged with a solution of 10% KCl, PEDV-killed adjuvanted

vaccine with a virus concentration of 10⁸ viral RNA copies/ml, 0.03% fluorescein tracer dye for particle mass, a flow rate of 2000 cfm, and temperature and humidity controlled according to the ASHRAE 52.2 test standard.

Air samples containing surrogate viruses were collected upstream and downstream from the filters using aerosol test equipment such as Anderson Cascade Impactors and optical particle counters to be able to separate particles by size (approximately 0.3 to 10 microns). The samples were then quantified by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and a fluorometer to estimate particle mass. For each particle, the particle size removal efficiency was calculated.

The results showed that under the conditions of the study, filter efficiency for SARS-CoV-2 surrogate and other viruses

ISSUE 6 2023 FILTNEWS.COM 21

way to eliminate possible contamination, but where HEPA filters can’t be used, upgrading to the highest MERV filter available will offer the best protection.

Filter Efficiencies with Respect to the SARS CoV-2 Virus and Carrier Particulate

was comparable to filter efficiency using KCl particles (ASHRAE 52.2 standards). In addition, the efficiency of particle removal was similar across the methods used (optical particle counter, fluorometer, or PCR).

Results for COVID Surrogate Testing with the ASHRAE 52.2 test method showed that for each air filter tested, virus capture is not independent of particle removal efficiency. The percentage of airborne coronavirus-carrying particles was reduced with an increase in MERV rating.

This was the first industry result of this type which was significant to substantiate the pandemic mitigation strategy of targeting bioaerosols with engineering controls, such as filtration. Air filtration does provide the removal of viral particles in aerosol and can help mitigate the spread

of airborne viruses, with the caveat being that the aerosol must enter the air handling system for it to be effective.

In addition to the ASHRAE 52.2 test method adaptation, AAF also tested filters against particles smaller than 0.3 microns using the EN1822 test methodology. It was determined that filtration efficiency for all types of filters is lowest from around 0.1-0.2 microns, called the most penetrating particle size or MPPS, and increases again as particles become smaller.

As can be seen in the graphical representation, high MERV-rated filters will reduce airborne viruses. Even though viruses are much smaller than 0.3 microns, filters that can remove particles under 1 micron will also effectively remove viruses. HEPA filters are the best

In conclusion, the results of these studies have consistently shown that airborne microorganism capture is not independent of filter efficiency. Filters are an effective tool for removing any type of airborne microorganism, assuming the particles enter the air handling system. If a filter can remove a non-viable transport particle, it will also remove a viable particle of the same size. Implementing higher MERVrated filters as an engineering control can effectively reduce the spread of airborne viruses, such as the Coronavirus.

Nikki Sasher works for AAF Flanders focusing on managing the Biological and Gas Phase Laboratory operations and research, specializing in R&D biological research projects where bioaerosol science and molecular biology are utilized. For 10 years, Nikki has held positions in bioaerosol research, applied microbiology, and food science; specializing in bioaerosol experimental design and implementation, quality assurance, food safety and defense, and environmental, clinical, and food & industrial microbiology. Nikki has utilized her expertise; working in both global R&D and industrial settings, and serving on US and international technical standards committees.

Nikki holds a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology and a Master of Science in Food Science. She is currently pursuing an MBA in Global Business. She has been an active participant in many leading industry organizations.

References:

1. Schulz, K. (2019, May 6). Filtering efficiency.

National Hog Farmer. https://www.nationalhogfarmer.com/hog-health/filtering-efficiency 2. Standards of filter testing for PRRS virus.

National Hog Farmer. (2015, January 12). https:// www.nationalhogfarmer.com/market-news/ standards-of-filter-testing-for-prrs-virus.

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LARGE PARTICLES

IAQ Filtration Performance The Importance of Face Velocity and Its Impact on Filter Parameters and the Role of Inertial Impaction on Larger Particle Size

By Dr. Felix Swamidoss Ph.D.

T

he concern over indoor air quality is a pressing issue in today's world, largely driven by the ever-expanding industrial landscape and the increasing use of innovative products and materials. Inhaling air pollution particles exposes individuals to significant health risks, including cardiovascular and respiratory problems that could potentially lead to a shortened lifespan. Its primary role is to mitigate the presence of fine particles, within indoor environments. However, a persistent challenge lies in filtration: the substantial pressure differentials that arise across multiple filter layers, subsequently resulting in elevated energy consumption. The goal in filtration system design is to strike a delicate balance between reducing these pressure differentials, maintaining filtration efficiency, and prolonging the lifespan of filters. This pursuit is fundamental for achieving energy-efficient and costeffective building operations. Filtration hinges on several core mechanisms for trapping particles, including interception, inertial impaction, diffusion, and sieving.

The size of particles being filtered is a key

factor in determining which mechanism takes precedence in the filtration process.

Yet, it's important to note that each filtration mechanism can be significantly influenced by the face velocity of the filter, an essential parameter with far-reaching impacts on filtration performance. Notably, in the case of nanofiber filters, the pressure differential decreases proportionally with the face velocity, not aligning with Darcy's Law, this is due to the slip flow effect. Researchers have delved into the effects of velocity profiles on pleat geometry, which, in turn, affects the initial local collection efficiencies. Investigations have also explored the determination of filter pleat geometry based on maximum local velocity.

Furthermore, studies have assessed how filter media characteristics influence the efficiency of HEPA filters. Notably, it has been observed that efficiency tends to decline as face velocity increases, primarily due to the reduced time particles spend in contact with nanofiber filters, shedding light on the intricate relationship between face velocity and filtration performance.

Studies have further revealed that the

specific resistance and density of the dust cake tend to be higher at higher filtration velocities, particularly when the dust concentration remains constant in the case of bag filters. These findings underscore the importance of considering filtration velocity as a pivotal factor in the quest for more efficient and effective filtration systems.

This critical factor profoundly affects the overall performance of filtration systems, notably impacting both the pressure differential and efficiency.

The Impact of Face Velocity Over Filter Parameters

Pressure Differential and Face Velocity At the heart of understanding the significance of filter face velocity lies the concept of the pressure differential, often referred to as pressure drop. In filtration systems, this pressure differential is the dominant indicator of performance, and it is intimately linked with the filtration velocity. The basic principle is simple: the higher the face velocity, the greater the pressure drop as seen in Figure 1. As the airflow speed increases, so does the resistance to the movement of air through the filter. This dynamic manifest itself as an essential consideration for anyone seeking to optimize filtration systems for a range of applications.

Efficiency and Face Velocity

p Figure 1: Pressure differential and face velocity.

Efficiency is a central concept in filtration, defining a filter's ability to capture and retain particles from the air passing through it. The relationship between efficiency and face velocity is multifaceted, primarily driven by particle size. In essence, the efficiency of a filtration system can be greatly influenced by the speed at which air moves through it. The interplay between ISSUE 6 2023 FILTNEWS.COM 23

face velocity and efficiency showcases a complex relationship, where smaller particles may encounter reduced efficiency at higher face velocities, while larger particles tend to benefit from the increased airflow.

Understanding this dynamic is pivotal in designing and selecting filters that can effectively address specific filtration needs while optimizing energy consumption and prolonging filter longevity.

Smaller Particle Sizes (<0.5µm) When it comes to smaller particles, those with a diameter less than 0.5µm, a higher face velocity can pose challenges to filtration efficiency. These tiny particles have less time to interact with the filter media due to the swift airflow, increasing the likelihood of them slipping through the filter's defences. This is particularly important to note since smaller particles can include various contaminants, some of which may be harmful to health or the environment.

Larger Particle Sizes On the flip side, larger particles tend to thrive under higher face velocities. This seemingly counterintuitive phenomenon is primarily attributed to the principle of inertial impaction. With greater air velocity, the particles gain substantial inertia, increasing the probability of collision between particles and the filter media fibers.

This collision results in efficient particle capture, a testament to the effectiveness of inertial impaction as a filtration mechanism. As a result, efficiency tends to rise for particles of larger sizes when exposed to higher face velocities.

To delve deeper into the concept of inertial impaction, it's important to understand how this phenomenon takes centre stage in filtration. Inertial impaction occurs when high air velocity imparts a substantial force of inertia on particles suspended in the air. This force becomes increasingly significant as the face velocity rises, creating a higher likelihood of collision between particles and the filter media fibres. In practical terms, this means that larger particles, which possess greater mass, are more likely to collide with the filter media fibres, leading to suc-

24 IFN ISSUE 6 2023

p Figure 2: . Smaller particles, due to their limited mass and inertia, struggle to interact with the filter media effectively at higher face velocities. As a result, filtration efficiency for these particles tends to decline as face velocity increases.

To delve deeper into the concept of inertial impaction, it’s important to understand how this phenomenon takes centre stage in filtration. Inertial impaction occurs when high air velocity imparts a substantial force of inertia on particles suspended in the air. cessful capture and removal. The result is a boost in filtration efficiency, particularly when dealing with particles in the larger size range. This principle underscores the critical importance of face velocity not only in terms of efficiency but also in the application of filtration technology across various industries and scenarios.

The relationship between face velocity and efficiency is not uniform across all particle sizes. This complexity arises from the interplay between inertial impaction and particle size. Smaller particles, due to their limited mass and inertia, struggle to interact with the filter media effectively at higher face velocities. As a result, filtration efficiency for these particles tends to decline as face velocity increases as seen in Figure 2. This presents a challenge in situations where capturing small particles is of utmost importance, such as in cleanrooms or environments that demand stringent air quality stan-

dards. Conversely, for larger particles, the dynamics shift dramatically. The increased face velocity imparts a powerful force of inertia, effectively enhancing the chances of particle-media collisions. This translates into an upswing in filtration efficiency for larger particles at higher face velocities.

ISO16890 Testing: Unveiling the Trends The trends discussed here are not mere conjecture; they are consistently observed and quantified through standardized testing methods. One such standard, ISO16890, serves as a critical framework for assessing filter efficiency. In ISO16890 testing, particles ranging in size from 0.310µm are employed as the test media.

This size range is carefully selected to encompass the variety of particles commonly encountered in real-world filtration scenarios. The data obtained from ISO16890 testing provides critical in-

sights into how filters perform under different face velocities. It highlights the essential role of face velocity in influencing filtration efficiency across the spectrum of particle sizes. It is clear that smaller particles often face reduced efficiency at higher face velocities, while larger particles reap the benefits of inertial impaction, resulting in improved efficiency.

Finding Significance The importance of filter face velocity in filtration performance cannot be overstated. It is a key parameter that directly impacts both the pressure differential and efficiency of filtration systems. The interplay between face velocity, particle size, and the principle of inertial impaction reveals a dynamic and often counterintuitive relationship. Moving forward in the realm of filtration technology, understanding these intricacies is crucial.

Whether it is concerned with indoor air

quality, optimizing HVAC systems, or ensuring compliance with industrial air filtration standards, comprehending the effects of face velocity on filtration performance is fundamental. It allows us to make informed decisions, striking a balance between capturing the full spectrum of particles and ensuring the efficient operation of filtration systems. The journey to harnessing the power of inertial impaction and face velocity in filtration is a voyage into a realm where science, engineering, and practical applications converge to create cleaner, healthier, and more efficient environments for all.

Dr. Felix Swamidoss is an emerging figure in the dynamic field of the air filtration industry, backed by a wealth of experience spanning over a decade in the realm of air filter technology.

Dr. Swamidoss currently holds a prominent role as the Head of Research and Develop-

Solent Technology Inc

ment at Spectrum Filtration India. With a doctorate specifically in the field of air filtration, this has enabled him to secure more than seven patented innovations in nanofiber media for air filtration, underscoring his remarkable expertise in the field. One of his outstanding accomplishments lies in the development of “Piezoelectrically enhanced electrostatic nanofiber media,” which is a critical importance in air filtration field. Having trained more than 400 industrial employees, he has shared his knowledge and insights, thereby fostering a greater understanding of the significance of air purification.

His mastery extends to nonwoven filter media design, where he excels in crafting media that offers minimal resistance while maintaining an exceptional DHC. Dr. Swamidoss groundbreaking work in pleat design and the development of progressive media using expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) has set new benchmarks for the latest air filtration innovations.

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ISSUE 6 2023 FILTNEWS.COM 25

AUTOMOTIVE

iStockphoto/humonia

Cabin Air Quality What Could Stink in the Nostrils of Automotive Evaporator Cores

By Dr. Iyad Al-Attar

R

apid economic empowerment is driving a long-term surge Air Pollution and Cabin Air Quality in vehicle ownership. The increased number of cars has conExhaust gases, tire abrasion, transportation systems, and factotributed to traffic-related air pollution and public health isries pollute our atmospheric air. Driving in a contaminated urban sues1-3. As a result, cities have become canyons for air pollution as environment where the outdoor air is filled with various types they attract population, construction, traffic, and extensive enerand concentrations of pollutants can challenge the cabin air filgy use4. Increased urban vehicle emissions from light and heavyters14. Drawing outdoor polluted air into the cabin environment duty vehicles pose a pollution challenge as pedestrians and cars is a filtration-intensive process, given the limited space available coexist in the same proximity5. The transport sector contributes for filter installation and the confined enclosures of vehicles. approximately one-quarter of all energy-related Greenhouse Gas Although poor air quality in buildings has gained more atten(GHG) emissions6,7. Transport emissions have grown at an annual tion mainly due to the recent pandemic, cabin air quality does not average of 1.7% from 1990 to 2022, faster than any other end-use garner the same concern, sufficient research funding, or approsector7. Transport emissions are responsible for more than 3.2 priate actions to enhance it. Cabin air quality is paramount; some million premature deaths annually8. studies suggest that many individuals spend up to three hours Cities constitute the primary source of greenhouse gas emisdaily in their cars. Today, air quality is critical in facilitating a sions. Several studies have suggested that most of the high conhealthy and comfortable cabin environment, and many automocentrations of airborne pollutants that drivers, passengers, and tive companies are competing to take it to the next level. pedestrians are exposed to are emitted by vehicles1-3,5,9.

The HVAC Systems of Nanosized particles, includLight-duty Vehicles ing those originating from The air conditioning (AC) the combustion of different systems used in the automaterials, have been linked motive industry are shown to various health concerns in Figure 1, illustrating the such as fibrosis, chronic inrefrigerant flow throughout flammatory lung disease, the system. The process and cancer10,11. Several studstarts when the compressor ies have suggested that chilreceives cool, low-pressure dren living near roads with gas, which is compressed heavy-duty vehicle traffic into a gas with high preshave twice the risk of respisure and temperature. The ratory problems as those refrigerant is pumped out living near less congested p Figure 1: Illustration of a typical HVAC system used in the automotive industry. of the discharge side of streets12,13. the compressor and flows

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into the condenser. The condenser then pollutants using a sandwiched sorbent cools high-pressure, high-temperature with a particulate filter substrate, as gas using a fan-cooled heat exchanger to shown in Figure 3. The confined space of turn it into high-pressure liquid. It is then vehicle cabins and that allocated for filter passed through the receiver dryer, which installation highlights the importance of has a desiccant bag inside to filter and efficient filtration performance. Failing absorb small amounts of moisture that to capture pollutants and having inefmay contaminate the refrigerant. fective filtration surface area can expose The high-pressure liquid passes drivers and passengers to greater risk through the expansion valve, allowing and impact their health in the short- and throttle under constant heat (enthalpy) long-term. conditions into a low-pressure liquid, as Ensuring the safety of drivers and shown in Figure 1. Eventually, the lowpassengers is essential to arriving safe, pressure liquid flows from the expansion sound, and healthy at the final destinavalve directly into the evaporator, chilltion. However, when particles leak or ing its walls. A blower motor pushes filseep through cabin air filters, they can tered air into the evaporator core, where form a dust cake on ducts (Figure 4), imheat is transferred so the driver and pas- pFigure 2: Loaded (top) and unused (bottom) cabin air filters. pellers (Figure 5) and/or the surface of senger enjoy cool and clean air through the evaporator core (Figure 6). Moisture the vehicle's dashboard vents. In the final step to close the air and dust-cake formation can foster a medium for microorganism conditioning cycle, the liquid refrigerant turned into a gas is then growth and further contribute to the degradation of cabin air returned to the compressor for another cycle. quality. Furthermore, moisture from human (and animal) occupants in recycled air, rain, or snow from outdoor air introduced Delivery of Clean Air to the Vehicle Cabins into the cabin can lead to pleat deformation. Such deformation When an unusual smell emanates from our air vents, our first impulse might be to check under the seat for an abandoned food bag rather than the HVAC system. Therefore, air filters are vital in protecting both the occupants and the components of the HVAC systems, which is critical to maintaining their sustainable performance to provide clean air. Figure 2 illustrates pollutants captured by a pleated filter compared with a new one. Introducing outdoor air filled with various pollutant types suspended in the air in the proximity of intake, whether from neighboring vehicle exhaust or emissions from the car itself, will further challenge the installed cabin air filter. Many filtration manufacturers introduced pleated media capable of capturing PM and gaseous p Figure 4: Comparison between contaminated air ducts due to failed cabin air filters.

p Figure 3: Scanning electron microscopic image of a typical cabin air filter with a naked-eye view in the box.

p Figure 5: Dust cake formation and settlement on the duct walls and impeller.

ISSUE 6 2023 FILTNEWS.COM 27

p Figure 6: Contaminated evaporator core used in a typical light-duty passenger vehicle.

can result in filter performance degradation and, eventually, deteriorated air quality delivered into the cabin.

Subjecting cabin occupants to various airborne pollutants represents a health risk and can increase the likelihood of an asthma attack for those susceptible to poor air quality. Recent studies have addressed the impact of cabin air quality on road safety and highlighted that a sneeze could cause a driver to drive around 50 meters – eyes closed – if their vehicle is going at 100 km/h15.

Furthermore, excessive PM and gaseous pollutants on the evaporator core can hinder the heat-transfer mechanism’s effectiveness and compromise HVAC performance. On the other hand, the settlement of bioaerosols on any component of the HVAC systems can increase the risk of their uncontrolled transmission, particularly on the evaporator core, which is usually moist.

Another aspect that can enhance cabin air quality is identifying the sources of indoor pollution in a given vehicle. While pollutants can infiltrate the cabin through systems leaks, unsealed windows, or other cracks, particularly in aging cars, uncaptured multiple particulates and gaseous contaminants such as dust, pollen (Figures 7 & 8), and VOCs can impact cabin air quality.

Furthermore, exposing occupants of the confined cabin space of the passenger compartment to these contaminants can pose a significant risk to human respiratory systems, even at low concentrations.

Emissions from car interiors, including dashboard material and upholstery, can also deteriorate cabin air quality16. Some studies indicate that emitted VOC concentrations from car interiors such as dashboards can further increase due to heat and ultraviolet light, intensifying their impact on the well-being of drivers and passengers17. Breathing polluted air can irritate the

p Figure 7: Pleat deformation in cabin air filters due to excessive moisture levels.

p Figure 8: Pollen grains strained at the surface of an air filter.

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p Figure 9: Dust and other particles (top) recovered from a cabin air filter (bottom).

throat, cause severe health effects, such as asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), and increase cardiovascular risk10. Drivers and occupants depend on a relatively small cabin filter (Figure 7) for significant filtration performance. These filters capture many pollutants with multiple types, concentrations, and size distribution while protecting the drivers and their loved ones.

An Ethical Obligation Cabin air quality is challenged by multiple pollutants emitted from various outdoor and indoor sources with varying impacts depending on different ventilation and driving conditions. Air filtration, ventilation mode, airflow rate, the age and airtightness of the vehicle, interior materials, the number of passengers, and the ambient pollution level outside the car can also influence cabin air quality. Inhaling clean cabin air when traveling by car is critical to our well-being and enjoyment of a safe and healthy driving experience. Facilitating all available technologies, not just HVAC and filtration, to make such an experience safe and pleasant is essential. Therefore, it is time to position the technology we possess to protect the lives of loved ones – especially newborns and

elderly – because it is, simply, an ethical obligation. Granting cabin air quality the attention it deserves speaks to our high aspirations of a sustainable, livable, and healthy indoor and outdoor environment.

Dr. Al-Attar is a mechanical engineer and an independent air filtration consultant. He is a Visiting Academic Fellow in the School of Aerospace, Transport, and Manufacturing at Cranfield University, consulting for air quality and filter performance relevant to land-based gas turbines. Dr. Al-Attar is also the strategic director, instructor, and advisory board member of the Waterloo Filtration Institute. In 2020, Eurovent Middle East appointed Dr. Al-Attar as the first associated consultant for air filtration. Recently, he became the Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) patron for EUROVENT. With engineering degrees (BSc, MSc, Ph.D.) from the University of Toronto (Canada), Kuwait University, and Loughborough University (UK), respectively, he is now reading for an MSc in sustainable urban development for air quality inclusion at the University of Oxford. His expertise is on the design/ performance of high-efficiency filters for HVAC and land-based gas turbine applications, focusing on chemical and physical characterization of airborne pollutants.

References: 1. Tong, Z., Li, Y., Westerdahl, D., Adamkiewicz, G., Spengler, J.D., 2019. Exploring the effects of ventilation practices in mitigating in-vehicle exposure to traffic-related air pollutants in China.

Environ. Int. 127, 773–784.

2. Wu, S., Deng, F., Niu, J., Huang, Q., Liu, Y., Guo, X., 2010. Association of heart rate variability in taxi drivers with marked changes in particulate air pollution in Beijing in 2008. Environ. Health Perspect.

118, 87–91.

3. Fruin, S., Westerdahl, D., Sax, T., Sioutas, C., Fine, P.M., 2008.

Measurements and predictors of on-road ultrafine particle concentrations and associated pollutants in Los Angeles. Atmos. Environ.

42 (2), 207–219.

4. Ai ZT, Mak CM. From street canyon microclimate to indoor environmental quality in naturally ventilated urban buildings: Issues and possibilities for improvement. Build Environ. 2015 Dec;94:489-503. doi: 10.1016/j.buildenv.2015.10.008. Epub 2015 Oct 20. PMID: 32288035; PMCID: PMC7116918.

5. Buzzard NA, Clark NN, Guffey SE. Investigation into pedestrian exposure to near-vehicle exhaust emissions. Environ Health. 2009 Mar 30;8:13. doi: 10.1186/1476-069X-8-13. PMID: 19331669; PMCID: PMC2673207.

6. Kopp, Andreas. 2015. Reducing Greenhouse Gases : GHG Analysis in Transport. Transport and ICT connections,no. 8;. World Bank Group, Washington, DC. © World Bank. https://openknowledge. worldbank.org/handle/10986/22304 License: CC BY 3.0 IGO.” 7. EPA. https://www.epa.gov/ghgemissions/global-greenhousegas-emissions-data[24].

8. IEA (2023), World Energy Outlook 2021, Transport. https://www.iea.org 9. IEA (2021), World Energy Outlook 2021, IEA, Paris https://www.iea. org/reports/world-energy-outlook-2021.

10. Byrne JD, Baugh JA. The significance of nanoparticles in particle-

induced pulmonary fibrosis. Mcgill J Med. 2008;11(1):43-50.

11. United Nations Environment Programme. https://www.unep.org/ explore-topics/energy/what-we-do/transport.

12. Migliore E, Berti G, Galassi C, Pearce N, Forastiere F, Calabrese R, Armenio L, Biggeri A, Bisanti L, Bugiani M, Cadum E, Chellini E, Dell'orco V, Giannella G, Sestini P, Corbo G, Pistelli R, Viegi G, Ciccone G; SIDRIA-2 Collaborative Group. Respiratory symptoms in children living near busy roads and their relationship to vehicular traffic: results of an Italian multicenter study (SIDRIA 2). Environ Health. 2009 Jun 18;8:27. doi: 10.1186/1476-069X-8-27. PMID: 19534827; PMCID: PMC2708149.

13. Vreeland, H., RodneyWeber, Bergin, M., Greenwald, R., Golan, R., Russell, A.G., Verma, V., Sarnat, J.A., 2017. Oxidative potential of PM2.5 during Atlanta rush hour: measurements of in-vehicle dithiothreitol (DTT) activity. Atmos. Environ. 165, 169–178.

14. Ljungman, P.L., Wilker, E.H., Rice, M.B., Austin, E., Schwartz, J., Gold, D.R., Koutrakis, P., Benjamin, E.J., Vita, J.A., Mitchell, G.F., Vasan, R.S., Hamburg, N.M., Mittleman, M.A., 2016. The impact of multipollutant clusters on the association between fine particulate air pollution and microvascular function. Epidemiology 27 (2), 194–201.

15. Daily Mail UK, online. https://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-2278669/Drivers-sneeze-wheel-cause-2-500-accidentsWEEK--experts-say-stay-roads.html.

16. Guo R, Zhu X, Zhu Z, Sun J, Li Y, Hu W, Tang S. Evaluation of Typical Volatile Organic Compounds Levels in New Vehicles under Static and Driving Conditions. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2022 Jun 9;19(12):7048. doi: 10.3390/ijerph19127048. PMID: 35742297; PMCID: PMC9223280.

17. Xu B, Chen X, Xiong J. Air quality inside motor vehicles’ cabins: A review. Indoor and Built Environment. 2018;27(4):452-465. doi:10.1177/1420326X16679217.

ISSUE 6 2023 FILTNEWS.COM 29

iStockphoto

LIQUID FILTRATION

From

Turbidity toTransparency Mastering Hard Seltzer Filtration Techniques

By Dr. Ilona Schneider

H

ard seltzer is a rising sensation within the realm of alcoholic beverages. This drink made its mainstream market debut only a few years ago and is experiencing an escalating trend in numerous nations.

Across the world, hard seltzer is seizing markets with remarkable force and boasted an approximate global worth of $15.8 billion (14.6 billion euros) in 2022. Of this substantial sum, around $13.6 billion (12.6 billion euros) can be attributed to U.S. demand alone. Future projections indicate a robust annual surge of over 30%, propelling worldwide sales to about $36.8 billion (34 billion euros) by 2025.1 Meanwhile, in Germany, where the sector remains relatively modest at roughly $54.2 million (50 million euros) in 2022, a staggering 88% annual growth rate is anticipated in coming years that could propel the market's magnitude beyond $347.2 million (320 million euros) by 2025.2 Hard seltzers are commonly perceived as a pristine product devoid of odor and displaying a transparent appearance. This quality holds significant market potential, contingent on the implementation of appropriate filtration technology to enable its realization. With the entry of many long-established alcoholic drink

30 IFN ISSUE 6 2023

manufacturers into the market, the process of production introduces a novel learning curve. The difficulty lies in the potential for the raw materials (depending on quality), as well as the processes of fermentation and flavoring, to induce haziness, introduce coloration, or even modify the taste of the liquid.

Thus, a multistage filtration procedure assumes a crucial function by facilitating clarification, eliminating unwanted color, and tuning out off-flavors to yield a final product that is both palatably pure and visually clear. The clarification phase effectively eliminates yeast, haziness, and other potential particles. Color and aroma refinement is meanwhile accomplished using filter media infused with activated carbon. Prior to bottling, a final filtration process helps to ensure the clarity and longevity of the beverage. Such techniques allow producers to achieve optimal safety, quality and consistency, empowering them to craft a hard seltzer that’s not only crystal clear but also exceptionally delightful.

Filtration: Unlocking Optimal Outcomes While the straightforward ascent of these alcoholic beverages can be readily understood, the process of perfecting them

remains complex. Hard seltzers can be crafted using various approaches that combine carbonated water with a wide spectrum of raw materials. Among the initial commercially available hard seltzers, some were crafted from lemons or underwent fermentation from malt. In contrast, the prevailing practice in North America involves employing mineral water as a foundation, infused with a small proportion of high-proof alcohol distilled from cane sugar.3 Even well-established manufacturers must meticulously examine the intricacies of producing a beverage that aligns with consumer anticipations. One factor contributing to this challenge is the pursuit of absolute clarity.

Clarifying Filtration For hard seltzer, the initial fermented liquid requires meticulous filtration using plate and frame filters (the standard in basic process depth filtration) or stacked disc cartridge housings. The former consists of a series of alternating plates and frames arranged in a stack. The plates are equipped with depth filter sheets that capture suspended microorganisms and particles while allowing the clarified liquid to pass through.

Stacked disc cartridges meanwhile are cylindrical filter units consisting of multiple stacked filter cells. This filtration solution tends to be more compact in design, allowing for efficient installation where space is limited. Additionally, a significant benefit is that it operates as a closed system, meaning the fluid being filtered remains completely enclosed within the cartridge. This also reduces the need for constant monitoring and maintenance, as it is less prone to external contamination.

Both methods are suitable for clarifying filtration because they help achieve a clear and visually appealing liquid while removing unwanted particles. The choice between depth filter sheets and stacked disc cartridges would depend on factors such as the desired level of filtration, the type of particles to be removed, the volume of liquid to be processed, and the available equipment and space.

Activated Carbon Treatment Following the clarifying filtration, an additional step involving activated carbon filter media is crucial for creating the transparent and initially neutral-tasting foundation needed for hard seltzer. This is primarily because activated carbon filtration is remarkably adept at removing color through the process of adsorption.

Activated carbon finds applications in the pharmaceutical, biotechnological, fine chemical processing, as well as the food and beverage industries. Its utility lies in decolorization, eliminating undesired by-products, enhancing taste, eliminating odors, and correcting colors. Frequently, it is manually added to the processes in powdered form, often referred to as PAC (Powdered Activated Carbon).

Immobilized activated carbon on the other hand offers certain benefits over loose PAC, including reduced dust exposure and enhanced downstream processing. Additionally, the scale-up process is made more straightforward thanks to the predictable filtration capacity. As the activated carbon content is meticulously specified and bound within the filter material, it helps to ensure both high and consistent product quality, along with

Activated carbon-embedded filter media offers a high adsorption capacity for decolorizing and aroma correcting; improves process hygiene; allows easy, virtually dust-free handling; and facilitates short setup times. reliable filtration performance in various applications.

In this phase, both depth filter sheets and stacked disc cartridges containing activated carbon can be employed for safe and efficient purification.

Pre- and Final Filtration In the final steps, depth filter cartridges and membrane filter cartridges are employed to maintain microbiological stability by effectively separating fine particles and microorganisms prior to beverages being carbonated and bottled.

Depth filter cartridges come in two primary variations: pleated and wrapped.

Typically constructed using polypropylene as the chosen filter material, these cartridges serve a pivotal role in pre-filtration processes, acting as the vanguard against potential contaminants that could compromise downstream membrane filter cartridges.

Wrapped depth filter cartridges exhibit a unique design characteristic where the individual filter layers progressively re-

fine from the outermost layer to the innermost. Their innovative structure also offers the advantage of being back washable, ensuring a longer life span and making them mechanically robust for rigorous applications.

For applications requiring precise filtration, depth filter cartridges with stringent retention ratings are indispensable.

These cartridges excel at removing fine particles and shielding membrane filter cartridges from clogging substances present within the fleece matrix, employing a highly effective sieve effect to maintain the integrity of downstream filtration processes.

Membrane filter cartridges are another critical link in safeguarding the purity and efficiency of the final bottled product.

These serve a crucial role as the “policing filter” in maintaining the microbiological stability of beverages during the filtration process prior to bottling. Their significance lies in their unique ability to undergo integrity testing, which guarantees the operational efficiency and integrity of the membrane filter. This integral quality control measure helps to ensure the consistent delivery of high-quality products to consumers.

Within the realm of alcoholic beverage production, membrane filter cartridges can help to attain a superior level of filtration, surpassing the capabilities of depth filters by effectively eliminating minute particles and bacteria. This meticulous filtration process proves indispensable, as even the tiniest microorganisms have the potential to cause spoilage, introduce offflavors, or trigger unwanted fermentation within the final bottled product.

A Hard Look at Seltzer

p The expansive surface area and impressive adsorption capacity of depth filter sheets bound with activated carbon make them excellently suited for efficient decolorization and flavor refinement processes.

The investigation into optimal filtration methods for achieving superior outcomes in the context of hard seltzer remains in the early stages, primarily due to its recent emergence. Addressing this gap, Dominik Eckert, a student at Hochschule Geisenheim University in Germany, dedicated his efforts to comprehensively explore the transformation of unfiltered base wine into hard seltzer as part of his undergraduate thesis.4 ISSUE 6 2023 FILTNEWS.COM 31

p Initial fermented product undergoes a filtration sequence, ultimately transforming into hard seltzer. This intricate multistage process aims to craft crystal clear drinks in irresistible flavors while ensuring impeccable quality at each phase.

Eckert’s research placed special emphasis on the assessment of the decolorization capabilities of activated carbon filter sheets. The experimental protocol encompassed multiple phases and was repeated on four separate occasions using a dedicated filtration test bench. In the initial stage, the focus was on assessing the filterability of the base wine and subsequently enhancing it through clarifying filtration techniques. Subsequent phases delved into diminishing the color intensity of the pre-clarified base wine. This was achieved by utilizing activated carbon filter sheets at varying flux rates ( flow rates). Final phases were centered around evaluating the potential impact of the introduction of grapefruit flavor on both the coloration and filterability of the resulting beverage.

As anticipated, the use of activated carbon filter sheets emerged as a highly recommended filtration method that contributes to the desired visual and sensory attributes. Notably, the tests revealed enhancements in particle separation, yielding positive outcomes for overall filtration performance and subsequent achievement of desired color intensities. Moreover, as a consequence of introducing flavor, all filtration parameters remained unaltered.

In this extensive series of tests, the uti-

32 IFN ISSUE 6 2023

lization of activated carbon filter sheets emerged as a standout choice for effective filtration. The filter sheets effortlessly delivered the desired optical and sensory attributes, making them a highly recommended option. Furthermore, the tests unveiled a noteworthy enhancement in particle separation, leading to a notable improvement in the overall filtration efficiency.

The findings derived from Dominik Eckert’s bachelor’s thesis, conducted in collaboration with experts from Eaton Filtration Division, offer manufacturers valuable guidance on optimizing their processes for the production of hard seltzers. Regardless of the ever-changing characteristics of fermented raw materials, these recommendations enable companies to attain peak levels of process reliability and product quality.

The result? Hard seltzers that not only meet the highest standards of safety but also boast an enticing visual appeal and a delicious taste that consumers crave.

Making Hard Seltzers Easier Hard seltzer remains a relatively new offering, and many operators lack significant experience in its manufacturing. However, since visual and sensory attributes play a pivotal role in meeting consumers’ expectations and desires for this beverage,

specialized process knowledge and substantial filtration expertise are imperative.

Among millennials and Gen Z consumers especially, this light alcoholic beverage resonates as a lifestyle choice. Manufacturers can address the challenge of producing a preferred hard seltzer through meticulous filtration steps and premium filtration media, helping their products sparkle in a market thirsty for refreshment.

Dr. Ilona Schneider, in more than 22 years with Eaton Corporation, has spearheaded numerous R&D efforts seeking to optimize beverage product filtration and treatment processes, with a special focus on analyzing the impact of different yeasts, enzymes and bacteria used for winemaking.

References:

1. Statista (2022): Hard seltzer worldwide, online: https://de.statista.com/outlook/cmo/ alkoholische-getraenke/hard-seltzer/weltweit (accessed on 12/21/2022) 2. Statista, (2022): Hard seltzer Germany, online: https://de.statista.com/outlook/cmo/ alkoholische-getraenke/hard-seltzer/deutschland (accessed on 12/21/2022) 3. Wikipedia (2022): Hard seltzer, online: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hard_Seltzer (accessed on 12/18/2022) 4. Eckert, Dominik (2022): Filterability of hard seltzer drinks, Hochschule Geisenheim University, bachelor’s thesis, 05/30/2022

M&A INSIGHTS

The Management Presentation – Usually Leads to an Outlier Result for the Seller

By Len LaPorta

Managing Director, Wiley Bros.-Aintree Capital, LLC Len LaPorta is a managing director of Investment Banking at Wiley Bros.-Aintree Capital, LLC – a 75-year-old firm, located in Nashville, TN, focused on investment brokerage and underwriting municipal bonds for utility districts in the state of Tennessee. Len brings to the Firm experience in crossborder M&A transactions between USA and Europe, advises business owners on sell-side and buy-side transactions, capital advisory, and valuations.

Len is a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy with MBA from Boston College and a veteran of the U.S. Navy. He is also a member of INDA’s non-woven Technical Advisory Board. llaporta@wileybros.com or (615) 782-4107.

Involving your management team in the Management Presentation (“MP”) round is a critical decision facing any owner looking to sell their business. The bidders need to hear from the team.

A

competitive sell-side process requires a significant time commitment of the management team over a nine-month timeframe.

The owner of the firm should ensure their direct reports understand their role in building confidence in the overall business model. The lack of senior management participation will most likely lead to a lower valuation. Too many times, a business owner thinks that going down the path of “trusting” only their intuition will lead to a great outcome in valuation and meeting the personal goals of the selling family or shareholder. That assumption generally is not correct.

For the Management Presentations, one suggestion is to involve key members of functional departments: operations, production, finance, supply chain and quality control. In addition, some owners prefer to have a family member or significant other attend the meetings and dinners with the various bidders.

Owners and direct reports might have anxiety meeting with potential buyers, therefore, a friendly participant might help settle nerves.

During the Management Presentation, arrange the direct reports in order of speaking assignment to match the presentation. Remember, many of your team leaders are not public speakers, therefore, keep each page simple and pertinent to their department.

High-level bullet points, pictures and product samples are excellent content in presentations.

Another presentation strategy to consider for a firm producing a product, is to arrange the presentation and speakers to align with the actual production cycle. In this example, start with the sales department and explain how the firm obtained the business. Next, have the operations manager explain how they source the material and then how they work with the production manager to create the schedule. In this example, the direct reports can easily represent the process, to the bidders, without a formal PowerPoint presentation.

Achieving an “Outlier” valuation bid has a direct correlation to the Management Presentation. Your investment banker will work with you and the management team to prepare for optimal outstanding delivery. The M&A market continues to be bullish and there should continue to be opportunities to sell your business in 2024.

Forecast for 2023 The seasonal lull combined with overall low demand is pushing volumes below pre-pandemic levels at some of Europe’s major hubs, though some in the industry are hopeful that electronics product launches set to begin soon could drive some peak season rebound in the coming months nonetheless. Freightos Air Index data shows ex-Asia and transatlantic rates remain more than 40% lower than a year ago though China – North America rates have increased more than 25% since a month ago.

Air rates – Freightos Air index • China – N. America weekly prices increased 14% to $4.59/kg • China – N. Europe weekly prices increased 5% to $3.05/kg.

• N. Europe – N. America weekly prices increased 2% to $1.70/kg.

Freightos. September 10, 2023. Air freight market update, delays, cost increases, and forecast for 2023. https://www.freightos.com/freight-resources/shipping-delays-and-cost-increases/

This article has been prepared solely for informational purpose. This article does not constitute an offer, or the solicitation of an offer, to buy or sell any securities or other financial product, to participate in any transaction or to provide any investment banking or other services, and should not be deemed to be a commitment or undertaking of any kind on the part of Wiley Bros. –Aintree Capital &Partners, LLC (“WBAC”) or any of its affiliates to underwrite, place or purchase securities or to provide any debt or equity financing or to participate in any transaction, or a recommendation to buy or sell any securities, to make any investment or to participate in any transaction or trading strategy. Any views presented in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of WBAC. While the information contained in this commentary is believed to be reliable, no representation or warranty, whether expressed or implied, is made by WBAC, and no liability or responsibility is accepted by WBAC or its affiliates as to the accuracy of the article. Prior to making any investment or participating in any transaction, you should consult, to the extent necessary, your own independent legal, tax, accounting, and other professional advisors to ensure that any transaction or investment is suitable for you in the light of your financial capacity and objectives. This article has not been prepared with a view toward public disclosure under applicable securities laws or otherwise.

ISSUE 6 2023 FILTNEWS.COM 33

SHOW REVIEW FiltXPO™ 2023

On the Edge of Change Filtration Professionals From Far and Wide Come Together at Chicago’s Navy Pier to Discuss the Industry's Future, Technology & Innovation By Caryn Smith

p Behnam Pourdeyhimi, Ph.D., Professor and Executive Director, The Nonwovens Institute teaches at the INDA Technical Conference held in conjunctin with FiltXPO. Caryn Smith

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he much anticipated FiltXPO 23, held October 10-12, 2023 in Chicago, IL by INDA – the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry, was a huge success according to exhibitors and attendees. Many exhibitors noted that the attendee base was an impressive array of C-suite leaders, decision makers and innovators who spent quality time discussing industry needs with them. Attendees enjoyed the two-day training from INDA, as well as a technical conference that included an impressive line-up of thought leaders, who provided a deep dive into varying solutions for current filtration challenges.

FiltXPO is known as North America’s leading exhibition and technical conference dedicated exclusively to filtration and separation products and processes.

Here are some key highlights and photos of the event.

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Filter Media Course The two-day Filter Media Course, conducted by Behnam Pourdeyhimi, Ph.D., Professor and Executive Director, The Nonwovens Institute; Hechmi Hamouda, Ph.D., Professor Textile Engineering, NC State University (ret.); and Hooman Tafreshi, Ph.D., Associate Professor Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, NC State University, allowed participants to develop an overall understanding of nonwovens and their applications in air, liquid, and aerosol filtration, technologies, unmet needs, and trends for future development.

The conference featured sessions on filter media technologies, advancements and opportunities in filtration machinery and equipment, innovations in clean air for homes and urban areas, standards and testing, industry trends and new developments, and filtration challenges and opportunities.

Keynote Speaker Fred Lybrand, Global Marketing Director for Process Liquids, Hollingsworth & Vose (H&V), spoke on “Accelerating Membrane Adoption with ROI,” highlighting four niche projects that H&V worked hands-on to develop custom solutions to their clients’ needs in food preparation, wineries, breweries and bio processing sites. He emphasized that establishing a solid return on investment is critical to adopting technology because of the time investment companies must make to bring new solutions into their systems.

Technical Conference The technical conference highlighted key topics affecting the filtration industry today and for the future and was co-organized by the Waterloo Filtration Institute.

p Fred Lybrand (H&V).

Caryn Smith

p Jon Rajala, AAF, left; Koen Bastiaens, NatureWorks, center; Gary McCurdy, ATI, right. Caryn Smith

“It is important to really know the goals of your customer for them to invest in a new product and be able to estimate the potential return on that investment,” he said. He led attendees through the four projects and how his team problemsolved each situation for a positive outcome for the client. “Higher yields, higher product quality, higher revenue and/or higher margins at the same cost for element is the goal.”

Looking to the future, H&V is meeting their market demand with Trupor® Filter Media. Trupor® leverages two centuries of H&V innovation in fibrous porous materials. It is the company’s first product for buyers of microfiltration membranes, targeting food, beverage, and bioprocessing applications.

Koen Bastiaens, Global Industry Manager – Emerging Markets, NatureWorks LLC, another lead-off speaker, held an interesting session on “Optimizing Biopolymers to Improve Filter Performance,” which discussed emerging market trends in using biomaterials to provide more sustainable material choices, and also to improve filter performance – a topic top of mind to many in the room. He emphasized this is critical to sustainability for the industry.

“I would argue that we can’t recycle our way into sustainability, with one trillion pounds of plastics produced from oil and gas in just 2022 alone,” he notes, and it is growing by 25 million pounds each year.

“We must work towards higher performance MERV ratings and find ways to get

there. Raw materials need to be considered in the full cycle of product development, not just reuse and recycling,” pointing to NatureWorks Ingeo™ PLA, that provides multiple after-use pathways, including Ingeo 6500D solution with topical treatment improves fluid management, durability and breathability. NatureWorks developments targeting filtration, specifically, include Spunbond, Meltblown, SMS; Electrostatic Charge Retention; Fiber Size, Distribution; Bicomponent; PLA, PP, acrylate; Blended materials; wool; and Electrospinning.

Standards and testing was a strong topic of discussion in light of current events.

Jon Rajala, Ph.D., R&D Manager, AAF International, presented “Air Filter Standards Activity and What It Means for Innovation.” His talk started with a history of air filtration standards, and ended asking pointed questions and concerns. “Better standards, better test methods, then we get better filters,” he notes. “ASHRAE 52.2 is not a widely used standard and it needs to be become mandatory. If ASHRAE 52.2 doesn’t respond, it will be irrelevant, and consumers will find other options, if we can’t answer the standards questions.”

He concluded, “The full 52.2 method does not address minimum possible efficiency.

Appendix J is not mandatory, and frankly, not widely used. If Standard 241 becomes widely adopted, Appendix J essentially becomes mandatory. Therefore, Standard 52.2 must address this issue before other standards mandate it.” He advocated for

better awareness of health impacts from air pollution and PM2.5/PM1 exposure, which are linked health issues such as Alzheimer’s, heart disease, strokes, asthma and lung cancer. This kind of awareness will drive better innovation and standards that are achievable.

Gary McCurdy of Air Technologies International spoke on “Application of Automated Filter Tester in Quality Control Testing,” with a focus on the importance of consistent aerosol particle size distribution. He also championed the idea that there must be an overall tightening of the standards to achieve standards reliable results. “Standards are too varied; part of the problem is the standards are too wide,” he noted. “The regulations are too loose. If you have a goal of .70 +/- 20 microns, that gives you a range from 90 to 50 that is acceptable. That is way too broad a range and wildly different results from one end of another.” He said that testing relies on the importance of consistent aerosol PSD in AFTQC (incoming material, processes, etc.), historical data, and R&D parameters. “We should have factory acceptance reports that include PSD data, and the industry should perform repeated testing of one sample.”

FiltXPO 2025 and the Filter Media Course will be co-located with IDEA®, taking place April 29-May 1, 2025, in Miami Beach, FL. More information will be available January 2024 on www.filtxpo.com.

ISSUE 6 2023 FILTNEWS.COM 35

SHOW PREVIEW

Excellence

in Air Quality Educational Program and Awards Make AHR Expo 2024 a Dynamic Experience

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he AHR Expo, covering the International Air-Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration landscape, will feature more than 110 free seminars, a robust panel series lineup, new product and technology presentations, professional certifications, and continuing education courses. This environment will create a platform for the industry to discuss crucial problems facing the industry, as well as showcasing innovation that is forward trending. The event is co-sponsored by ASHRAE and AHRI, and is planned for January 22-24, 2024 in Chicago, IL, and is being held concurrently with ASHRAE’s Winter Conference.

The AHR Expo is the most comprehensive gathering of industry professionals from around the globe each year. The show provides a unique forum where manufacturers of all sizes and specialties, whether major industry brands or innovative start-ups, can come together to share ideas and showcase the future of HVACR technology under one roof.

“The Education Program has grown into a true complementary asset to the show floor experience,” said Show Manager, Mark Stevens. “Inside exhibitor booths,

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manufacturers are displaying real solutions to improve the health of the industry, the professional work experience and to address the shifts in our wider society. As a bridge to the robust activity on the floor and attendee understanding, the education program will offer real discussions about real problems that are shared across the industry. We’re working to connect the varying sectors within our industry to deepen these conversations. By inviting our associations and community leaders to the table, we can spark important conversations that lead to smarter decisionmaking and customer engagement.”

Real-world applications and practice in areas of niche discipline are the focus of the educational program, as well as a broader discussion of topics relating to trends on the horizon. Workforce education and open-form communication are important factors as developments occur across the industry.

“Our manufacturers do a phenomenal job of displaying everything new to the market,'” continued Stevens. “All the latest products and technologies, as well as solutions to nearly any issue attendees may encounter in their day-to-day profes-

sional HVACR efforts are there. The education program adds an added layer of understanding and knowledge building that supports what our manufacturers are bringing to market, and how professionals can work together to identify solutions throughout the full project cycle.”

Attendees can expect the program to address a wide variety of topics and are encouraged to explore the full program on the website.

2024 AHR Expo Panel Series The panel series is a platform for innovators and attendees to gain business intelligence on challenges, trends and solutions within sectors. Here are some to note: 2024 State of the Industry A popular session is the panel discussion among leaders representing every sector of the industry led by Bryan Orr to moderate a state-of-the-industry update with leaders from ASHRAE, AHRI, HARDI, NCI, ASHB etc. They discuss in an open forum the current challenges, opportunities, and forecasts for the year ahead in HVACR. Expected topics include changing regulations, the economic forecast including inflation and tariffs, the green transition, the supply chain, and more.

Speakers on this panel include Dominick Guarino, President & CEO of National Comfort Institute, Inc.; Ginger Scoggins, President, ASHRAE; Greg Walker, CEO of ASHB; Steve Yurek, CEO of AHRI; and Talbot Gee, CEO of HARDI. This panel will be moderated by Bryan Orr of HVAC School.

AI, Controls & the Future of Technology in HVAC This session will discuss the current and future roles of controls technology and artificial intelligence as they relate to HVAC and buildings management.

Speakers on this panel include Greg Walker, ASHB; Anto Budiardjo, CEO at Padi.io; Chad Langston, ABB; Charles Pelletier, Vice President, Product Management at Distech Controls; Darryl DeAngelis, Ebtron; and Stephen Holicky, Tridium/ Honeywell.

Addressing the Workforce Talent Gap through Educational Partnerships Here, the panel discusses the impact collaboration with an educational institution can have on fostering a robust workforce.

With a declining workforce, HVACR professionals can attune to provide supportive efforts to attract and maintain talent.

Speakers on this panel include Scott Shaw, President & CEO at Lincoln Tech; Alison Neuman, North American Workforce Development Program Manager at Johnson Controls; Brian Feilen, Lincoln Tech; Susan English, Senior Vice President of Career Services & Industry Partnerships at Lincoln Tech; and Jose De La Portilla, Senior Manager of Education and Training at Rheem Manufacturing.

Free Industry Seminars The 2024 show will feature more than 110 free sessions led by industry experts.

“The Education Programming is a means to learn trends, tips, and growth strategies for the professional and the business,” said Kimberly Pires, AHR Expo Education Program Director. “Our associations are in tune with what is current in their areas of the industry, and this program is the culmination of full industry learning. Our sessions aim to provide diverse perspectives from every professional and perspective in HVACR. The opportunity for shared

insight supports healthy communication and growth within the industry.”

Attendees are encouraged to explore the full program on ahrexpo.com.

AHR Event Highlights Continuing Education AHR Expo attendees have the opportunity to participate in professional development courses through ASHRAE Learning Institute (ALI), as well as short courses/ professional development seminars approved for Continuing Education Units (CEUs) that can apply toward maintaining P.E. licensure. Advance registration and payment of fees is required. Topics cover a wide range of industry subjects, including the fundamentals of the commissioning process, complying with the requirements of ASHRAE standards, laboratory design basics and beyond, optimizing indoor environments and more.

New Product Theater Presentations More than 145 presentations lasting approximately 20 minutes each are planned across all three days of the show. These will provide brief overviews of new product announcements and technologies that can be found in exhibitor booths on the show floor.

Innovation Award winners AHR Expo Innovation Awards were presented to companies in 10 categories. This year, two 2024 Innovation Award winners will present, including: u Danfoss Turbocor® Active Cooling Variant u Inficon: Robotic Vision System for Refrigeration “There’s no shortage of innovation in HVACR right now,” said Show Manager, Mark Stevens. “To be recognized as an award winner is a true honor and an indication that we as an industry are responding to real problems with creative solutions. The Innovation Awards aim to highlight this innovation trajectory and celebrate those that are pushing the bar.”

For more information, visit ahrexpo.com and follow @ahrexpo on Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn and Facebook.

ISSUE 6 2023 FILTNEWS.COM 37

TECH TALK

2023 in the Rearview Mirror, 2024 in the Crystal Ball

By Matt O’Sickey

Director of Education & Technical Affairs, INDA Matt O’Sickey, PhD is Director of Education & Technical Affairs at INDA, Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry. Matt was previously Director of Technology for RKW-North America and Global Director of Market Development for Tredegar Film Products and may be reached at mosickey@inda. org or +1 919 459-3748. * International Fiber Journal is owned by INDA, Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry (inda.org).

As director of education and technical affairs, Matt presents regular training related to nonwovens and filter media from INDA’s headquarters in Cary, NC. For more information about upcoming training opportunities, visit inda.org/training.

38 IFN ISSUE 6 2023

L

ooking back on 2023, there were a few surprises that continue to prevent identifying fully what the new, post-COVID normal will be for the filtration industry. Let’s look at the trends coming out of the COVID-19 pandemic, the surprises we’ve seen this year, the impact of those surprises, and some things to watch for in 2024 and beyond.

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed consumer purchasing behavior for nonwoven products that were critical during the peaks of the pandemic: wipes and filtration. At CIDPEX 2023 and World of Wipes 2023, INDA shared that North American nonwoven consumption for wipes has taken a positive step-change with growth rates increasing from a pre-pandemic 3.2% to a post-pandemic 4.8%. This has shifted the percentage of nonwoven used for wipes from ~10% in 2019 to 12% in 2023.

INDA attributes this step-change in large part to consumers who previously were not users of wipes having been introduced and acclimated to them during the peak pandemic period. These consumers were introduced to wipes via the disinfectant category, acknowledged the convenience they provide, and then adopted them for household cleaning, cosmetic, and personal hygiene uses.

A similar COVID-19 inspired step-change has occurred for filter media and filtration. Prior to the pandemic, consumers had a basic awareness of indoor air quality issues. For three years, consumers have been inundated with education around indoor air quality, ranging from the state of air quality in hospitals, schools, businesses, and transportation to discussions regarding what is most appropriate for homes. Early in the pandemic, much focus was on what was necessary in terms of filter change frequency and maintenance, with news reports indicating that some school systems had two-thirds of facilities with “dirty or poorly maintained ventilation systems – (and) about half had air filters that hadn’t been replaced in years prior to October, rather than twice a year as recommended.”

The narrative quickly changed to the efficiency and capability of filters in schools and public places. “Dr. William Bahnfleth, an engineering professor at Pennsylvania State University and the chair of ASHRAE’s epidemic task force, says the professional society’s prior recommendations to schools would help protect against body odor but not COVID-19.” Faced with such messaging, consumers began demanding better IAQ for their children’s schools AND began to consider their own home filter media change frequency and upgrading the media used to improve protection. These marketplace reactions, along with a pandemic-driven spike in demand for the media used for facemasks, have created a lasting shift in the percentage of nonwoven used for filtration purposes, moving to 11% in 2023.

Considering production assets, since 2017, there has been a net increase of ~80 nonwoven manufacturing lines, of which ~20% are devoted to filtration, with another ~29% capable of producing various filtration related nonwovens (in addition to materials for non-filtration products). Assets dedicated to producing substrates for wipes made up another ~10% of the net increase in machines.

One surprise of 2023 was the rapid pace at which a new standard for control of infectious aerosols was developed and implemented by ASHRAE. ASHRAE 241 was fast-tracked and adopted in less than a year and is already being promoted to school boards and parents, “With the school year approaching, we need a proper plan to ensure our schools are healthy environments.

We now have ASHRAE standard 241 to control infectious aerosols. Here’s how it can be implemented at school.” Aligning to CDC guidance recommending MERV-13 or better performance for control of infectious aerosols, ASHRAE 241 includes as mandatory, the previously optional filter media conditioning step disclosed in ASHRAE 52.2 Appendix J, that involves discharging the filter media. As this effectively eliminates the use of electret charging of filter media to achieve MERV-13 performance, there is an anticipated shift in filter in the future. MERV-13 performance can be accomplished without electret charging via increased filter media surface area –either finer fibers or increased filter depth or a combination of both. Both approaches have the potential to increase energy consumption due to increased pressure drop across the filter.

This also may pose an unintended challenge to public entities that are balancing the desire to provide better protection against infectious aerosols by adhering to the CDC/ASHRAE 241 target of MERC-13 performance AND local edicts to improve public building energy efficiency. Regardless, in the short term, there is potential to see shifts in filter media production asset technology and/or increases in the volume of filter media produced.

ASHRAE 241 notably does not consider the potential of smart air filtration systems that may monitor filter performance over time or as electret charging is naturally dissipated. This may be revisited in the future as such filtration systems become more available and commonplace.

The second significant surprise impacting filtration was the impact of Canadian wildfires over a broad swath of the Midwest, Northeastern, and Mid-Atlantic United States. While similar phenomena have been experienced more locally in California and other western states, Greece, and Australia in recent years, the Canadian wildfires of 2023 impacted a significantly larger, heavily populated region. News outlets reported spikes in sales of air filters, N95 and KN95 respirators, and air purifiers. For the contaminants in the wildfire haze, experts recommend N95 and KN95 respirators, even those with exhalation valves, over surgical masks.

While N95 and KN95 respirators provide adequate particulate protection, there are opportunities for improvement in surgical masks to meet this particularly air quality challenge and to potentially optimize N95/KN95 respirators for extended outdoor use.

Finally, a third development in 2023 will have impact on the filtration community in the future – the announcement of a proposed national standard for PFAS levels in drinking water. Already, the U.S. Geological Survey has suggested that more the 50% of United States tap water is contaminated with various PFAS chemicals. It has even been suggested by some commentators that as many as 99% of public drinking water providers would fail against the proposed EPA targets. Should this occur, it is likely to drive

growth in home drinking water filters and purifiers which are typically reverse osmosis or activated carbon based.

Unanticipated events have created opportunities for innovation and market growth in coming years, as well as potential shifts in filter media production. Updated data on market outlook, supply and demand, and prognostication on the impact such events as seen in 2023 may have in out years is tracked and available from INDA.

References:

Hays, Emily, “Ignored School Filters Pose Health Risks”, New Haven Independent, February 25, 2021, https:// www.newhavenindependent.org/ article/schools_report_filters_vents.

Greenblatt, Mark; McMillan, Nicholas, “School Air Filters: Not COVID-19 Ready,” Scripps News, July 27, 2020, https://scrippsnews.com/stories/ school-air-filters-not-covid-19-ready.

Snider, Mark; Garcia, Cindy, “INDA North American Nonwovens Materials Annual Study 2022.”

Fox, Joey, “Keeping Kids in School with Clean Air using ASHRAE 241,” It’s Airborne, August 25, 2023, https://

itsairborne.com/keeping-kids-inschool-with-clean-air-e82efcd43e86.

Kelly L. Smalling, Kristin M. Romanok, Paul M. Bradley, Mathew C. Morriss, James L. Gray, Leslie K. Kanagy, Stephanie E. Gordon, Brianna M. Williams, Sara E. Breitmeyer, Daniel K. Jones, Laura A. DeCicco, Collin A. Eagles-Smith, Tyler Wagner, “Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in United States tapwater: Comparison of underserved privatewell and public-supply exposures and associated health implications,” Environment International, Volume 178, 2023.

ISSUE 6 2023 FILTNEWS.COM 39

TRUE COST

Chocolate Filtration Chocolate Manufacturing is a Large and Challenging Industry for Filter Manufacturers

By Bob McIlvaine

President The McIlvaine Company Bob McIlvaine is the president of The McIlvaine Company, which is helping filter suppliers understand the true cost of their products and the impact on the Serviceable Obtainable Market. He can be reached at rmcilvaine@ mcilvainecompany.com or +1 847.226.2391.

C

hocolate comes from the seeds of a tropical fruit tree called Theobroma cacao. A weekslong process is needed to turn this fruit into a bar of chocolate.

Chocolate is being made everywhere, from South Africa and the South of France, to Taiwan and rural Costa Rica. The process of chocolate making from the tree to a chocolate bar can be broken down into seven basic steps: harvest, fermentation, drying, roasting, winnowing, refining, and tempering.

The U.S chocolate industry revenue has grown at a CAGR of 0.6% over the past five years, to reach an estimated $19.9B in 2023.

The U.S. Census Bureau divides the industry into the following categories: 2017 Index Entries for 311351 NAICS 311351 Baking chocolate made from cacao beans 311351

Candy bars, chocolate (including chocolate covered), made from cacao beans

311351 Candy, chocolate, made from cacao beans 311351

Chocolate (e.g., coatings, instant, liquor, syrups) made from cacao beans

311351 Chocolate bars made from cocoa beans 311351 Chocolate, confectionery, made from cacao beans

Filter Selections There are two major application categories: one is liquids and the other is dry granular solids. The filters for dust collection from bins, roasters and mills are of the same design as for other food processes, but the liquid filters have to be unique to handle viscous slurries.

The types of filters used in liquids and slurries include screens, strainers and self-cleaning filters.

Russell Finex

311351 Nuts, chocolate covered, made from cacao beans

Whether producing cocoa liquor, cocoa butter, or manufacturing and processing liquid chocolate, Russell Finex has solutions. There are different screening solutions suited for all the places needing them, including incoming ingredients, post conch, post enrober, rework or tanker loading and unloading. Self-cleaning filters are totally enclosed, automatic, high-capacity screening to keep operators and environment safe. The company also offers vibratory sieve solutions for more difficult or heavily contaminated batches.

With its versatile range, the filter improves product quality by removing oversize contamination from 15 microns or above. The filter does not require filter bags or cartridges, which offers significant reductions in wasted product.

311351 Syrup, chocolate, made from cacao beans

Saniclean

Three of the world’s five largest chocolate companies are headquartered in the U.S.

Chocolate is filtered to ensure a high-quality finished product free of contaminants. Additionally, because of different global consistency standards,

311351 Coatings, chocolate, made from cacao beans 311351

Cocoa (e.g., instant, mix, mixed with other ingredients, powder drink, powdered) made from cacao beans

311351 Cocoa butter made from cocoa beans 311351 Confectionery chocolate made from cacao beans 311351 Cooking chocolate made from cacao beans 311351 Drink powdered mixes, cocoa, made from cacao 311351 Fudge, chocolate, made from cacao beans 311351

Granola bars and clusters, chocolate, made from cacao beans

311351 Liquor, chocolate, made from cacao beans

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This article is about providing the best purchaser decisions for chocolate manufacturing. It starts with understanding each process. Viking Pump is a step ahead of us and has a very useful process flow diagram which we are displaying in a static form with links to the interactive version.

Viking Pump has specialists in each niche. Joel Fenton and Tom Ertz are specialists in chocolate.

This includes understanding customer needs and addressing them. Asked for an example, they cited needs to increase safety, decrease maintenance and product loss. The latest seals for pumps eliminate leakage. This saves product, but also floor cleanup and the risk of falls.

Company

Headquaters

Revenues $ Billions

Ranking

Orion

South Korea

1.8

10

Glico

Japan

3.2

9

Pladis

UK

4.5

8

Lindt

Switzerland

4.6

7

Nestle

Switzerland

7.9

6

Hershey

U.S

8.2

5

Meiji

Japan

9.7

4

Mondelez

U.S

12

3

Ferrero

Luxembourg

13

2

Mars

U.S.

18

1

there is a need for filtration systems capable of handling diverse raw materials. These are just a few ways 3A certified strainers are used in chocolate processing.

• Filtering virgin chocolate after conching • Tanker loading and unloading • Filtering reclaimed chocolate after it drips off of candies with centers • Filtering reworked chocolate to remove contaminations like foil wrappers, nuts and almonds Filtering chocolate not only affects taste but also ensures product safety and quality and reduces the potential for product recalls.

SaniClean Strainers are suitable for a wide range of applications, from small batch runs to 24/7 continuous production cycles. Strainers are available in varying capacities from creeping flow rates to high-volume production outputs. They are easily integrated into new or existing piping configurations. Standard material of construction is 316L; other corrosion resistant alloys are available for handling highly corrosive fluids.

Eaton A global chocolate manufacturer discovered challenges in its liquid chocolate filtration system which included filtering the products in an open environment. Decreased productivity and product quality forced the company to look for a better solution.

The solution was to replace the vibrating gravity screen with an Eaton DCF-800 mechanically cleaned filter.

The DCF-800 mechanically cleaned filter increased efficiency and enhanced the quality of the end product. Higher flow rates resulted in increased productivity, reduced contaminants and both labor and material savings.

Several more benefits, included: • Increased burst strength of 150 psi compared to 110 psi in the customer’s former system • Improved plant working conditions due to quieter, enclosed system • More efficient use of space due to the filter’s compact design • Virtually maintenance-free operations and less frequent replacement of parts resulting from fewer moving parts Filtration of chocolate is challenging but there are solutions which enhance productivity while reducing maintenance.

Note: Link to the interactive chocolate process map: vikingpump. com/chocolate ISSUE 6 2023 FILTNEWS.COM 41

MOVERS & SHAKERS

North American Filtration Enhances Green Solutions with Acquisition of Filtrex Incorporated

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orth American Filtration (NAF), a leading manufacturer and distributor of commercial pool filtration, chemical feed equipment and chemicals, announced the acquisition of Filtrex Incorporated. Filtrex is a prominent manufacturer of regenerative media filter systems and components.

The integration of Filtrex’s filtration technology embodies NAF’s commitment to delivering industry-leading, eco-conscious solutions. “This acquisition marks a new era of innovation and reinforces our shared commitment to a greener future,” said Chris Tedeschi, President of NAF’s Aquatics Division.

Ron Neugold, former President of Filtrex, expressed enthusiasm for the acquisition, stating, “We are thrilled to have Filtrex join the NAF family of companies. We believe that the combined knowledge, expertise, and resources will lead to continued product innovation and customer satisfaction.” www.northamericanfiltration.com

STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP

Toray Expands Air Filter Business in India

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oray Industries, Inc., announced that a new facility at subsidiary Toray Industries (India) Private Limited began producing air filters in October. These offerings for air purifiers and automotive and building air conditioners and air conditioners minimize pressure losses while delivering high dust collection efficiency.

This is the first facility in India to integrate the production of e v er y thin g from n onw o v en fabrics for high-performance filter media through filter assembly.

It has joined Toray Fibers (Nantong) Co., Ltd., in China, which makes nonwoven fabrics for air filters, in supplying the global market. www.toray.com

LiqTech Enters Distribution Agreement with Waterco

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iqTech International, Inc., a clean technology company that manufactures and markets highly specialized filtration products and systems, announced it has entered into an exclusive distribution agreement with Waterco for the distribution of LiqTech’s Aqua Solution® swimming pool water filtration systems covering Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, and the Pacific Islands. Waterco is a well-established player in the swimming pool market and has worked with LiqTech successfully in the past three years to bring solutions to their joint customers. This agreement is aimed to elevate the collaboration between LiqTech and Waterco. www.liquitech.com

U-Air Joins the MANN+HUMMEL Group

T

he MANN+HUMMEL Group announced the closing of the acquisition of a majority stake in Suzhou U-Air Environmental Technology (“U-Air”).

This strategic move reinforces MANN+HUMMEL’s commitment to meeting the rising global demand for cleaner air solutions and strengthens its footprint in the growing Chinese and Southeast Asian air filtration market.

The acquisition of U-Air, one of the largest Chinese filtration manufacturers known for its high-quality air filtration products, marks a significant milestone for MANN+HUMMEL. For one of the leading filtration technology companies, the investment means accelerating its global reach and gaining new opportunities as U-Air is serving diverse markets. The U-Air teams and customers will benefit from MANN+HUMMEL’s global reach and infrastructure as the filtration company already has a very strong presence in the Chinese Automotive sector.

While the acquisition has been completed on October 31st, 2023, the public registration in China is still in progress. The U-Air portfolio will complement MANN+HUMMEL’s existing air filtration business within the Life Sciences & Environment unit. MANN+HUMMEL and U-Air are fully committed to ensuring a smooth implementation of this transaction for the benefit of their customers and suppliers. www.mann-hummel.com

42 IFN ISSUE 6 2023

NX Filtration Supplies Beer Filtration Membranes to Carlsberg Fredericia in Denmark

Madison Names Jonathan M. Pratt to lead Filtration Group

X Filtration, the global provider of breakthrough filtration technology, has supplied its membranes to Carlsberg’s Fredericia brewery in Denmark, one of the largest breweries in Europe, that has a strong focus on process optimization and sustainability. NX Filtration’s microfiltration membranes are being used to further improve performance and sustainability of Carlsberg’s flagship brewery.

NX Filtration is among the few suppliers of hollow fiber microfiltration membranes to the beer industry globally. Microfiltration offers a superior alternative for traditional filtration method (diatomaceous earth) because of its higher and more constant quality, lower energy use, the possibility of continuous operation and the avoidance of environmental impact.

For Carlsberg’s Fredericia brewery, NX Filtration supplied its microfiltration modules to further optimize the beer filtration process in the brewery. NX Filtration’s membrane modules offer the highest quality and unique characteristics in terms of robustness, energy and chemical consumption, costs, and operability and handling. www.nxfiltration.com

adison Industries, one of the world’s largest privately held companies, announced that it has named Jonathan M. Pratt President and CEO of Filtration Group. As CEO, Pratt will partner with the Filtration Group team to establish a growth culture and drive operational excellence as the organization continues its mission to make the world safer, healthier and more productive.

Prior to joining Filtration Group, Pratt served as senior vice president of the $2.5 billion Waters Division of Waters Corporation, an analytical laboratory instrument and software company.

Prior to joining Waters, he led Danaher’s Beckman Coulter Life Sciences operating company, a leading provider of instruments and services to the life science research and industrial markets with revenues of over $1 billion. At Pall Corporation, Pratt was responsible for a $0.5 billion global portfolio of food & beverage, laboratory and bioprocessing filtration and instrument solutions. www.madison.net

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M

Medicom Inaugurates New Mask Filter Plant in Canada

M

edicom Group, one of the world’s leading providers of infection prevention and control solutions, celebrated the official inauguration of its new mask filter plant, Meltech Innovation in Saint-Eustache, Canada. The meltblown polypropylene component of surgical and respiratory masks, which acts as a filter for harmful particles, will be the plant’s main output.

The total investment of close to $50 million, will also create 26 skilled jobs. Meltblown polyproplylene was one of the materials facing a worldwide shortage during the pandemic. Given the highly strategic nature of the project, the Government of Canada has committed to investing up to $29 million through the Strategic Innovation Fund.

Attached to the plant is a unique innovation center with a main focus on designing the next generation of greener, more sophisticated, and more efficient filters in terms of breathability and protection. However, R&D for medical purposes will only be part of the output as Meltech will also develop products that can be used for air filtration, membrane filtration, battery separators, supercapacitors and more. All of this will be done with a view to marketing and exporting. www.medicom.com ISSUE 6 2023 FILTNEWS.COM 43

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