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A self-cleaning, bio-inspired high retention filter for a major entry path of microplastics
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Researchers developed a bio-inspired self-cleaning filter for washing machine microplastic fibre capture, modeled on the gill arch system of ram-feeding fish, achieving high retention efficiency while resisting clogging — a key limitation of existing domestic filtration solutions.
Microplastic (MP) fibres from washing machines are a major source of environmental pollution, yet, existing domestic filtration solutions are prone to clogging and have limited retention. Inspired by the gill arch system of ram-feeding fishes, we developed a bio-inspired filter that employs semi-cross-flow filtration with a conical filter element geometry, periodic self-cleaning and optimised inflow. Laboratory tests show that the fish-inspired filter (FiF) retains up to 99.6% of MP test fibres. Clogging is reduced by collecting up to 85% of the fibres outside the FiF through a periodic cleaning mechanism. CFD and flow tank experiments demonstrate that filtration performance is strongly influenced by the angle of attack and inlet geometry. The FiF achieves a low concentrate volume (∼5%), increasing yield and minimising post-treatment. Our findings highlight the potential of bio-inspired filtration mechanisms for engineering applications such as washing machines requiring high efficiency and modular design.
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A self-cleaning, bio-inspired high retention filter for a major entry path of microplastics
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Researchers designed a washing machine filter inspired by how ram-feeding fish use their gill arches to strain food from water, achieving up to 99.6% retention of microplastic fibers while a built-in self-cleaning mechanism prevents clogging. This bio-inspired filter could significantly reduce the estimated millions of microfibers released into waterways from household laundry each year.
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Research digests by email
When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.