POLLUCOAL: Sustainable Muffler Retrofit for Capturing and Collecting Black Soot Particulates to Mitigate Vehicular Emissions
According to the World Health Organization (WHO, 2021), air pollution remains one of the leading environmental risks to human health, causing millions of premature deaths annually, mainly due to exposure to harmful particulates such as black soot. Vehicular exhaust is a major contributor, releasing carbon-based pollutants that harm the air, human health, and the environment.
To help address this, the researcher developed POLLUCOAL, a sustainable muffler retrofit designed to capture and collect soot emissions from vehicles, promoting cleaner air and eco-friendly transport. This study aligns with SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and SDG 13 (Climate Action), focusing on reducing urban air pollution through innovative and low-cost solutions.
The research procedures were as follows:
I. Gathering and preparation of materials
II. Assembling of POLLUCOAL
III. Collection of black soot particulates
IV. Data testing
V. Data gathering and interpretation
The results showed that POLLUCOAL can effectively trap black soot particulates, both with and without a cotton filter. Higher collection rates were observed without the filter, though the filter offered better emission filtration by capturing finer particulates. Noise level tests revealed a slight reduction during idle and gentle rev conditions. Exhaust temperature remained stable, indicating no negative impact on engine performance. Battery testing confirmed the device’s ability to operate for extended periods, demonstrating its practicality in real-world conditions. These results highlight POLLUCOAL’s potential as a low-cost, sustainable solution for reducing vehicular emissions and improving urban air quality.
- Star Innovators (Secondary and primary school students)
- Science & Technology
- INNOVATION PRODUCT (For innovators who already have innovation products to compete)
- Philippines
- Ma. Glen May S. Aguinaldo
- Tayug National HIgh School
- Kelvin A. Gala
- Tayug National HIgh School
- Marlon Vinz Aldref A. Operaña
- Tayug National HIgh School
- Gerle Anne N. Ramos
- Tayug National HIgh School
- Renchie Jasper F. Pajarillo
- Tayug National HIgh School