SUSTAINABLE ZEOLITE-BASED SOLUTIONS FOR REDUCING INDOOR CO₂ LEVELS TO IMPROVE URBAN AIR QUALITY IN TAMILNADU

Indoor air quality significantly impacts health and well-being, making the reduction of carbon dioxide (CO₂) concentrations essential in urban environments. The increasing concentration of carbon dioxide (CO₂) in indoor environments poses significant risks to air quality and human health. This study investigates the effectiveness of zeolite-based direct air capture systems in reducing indoor CO₂ levels, focusing on several urban and semi-urban locations across Tamil Nadu, including Chennai, Coimbatore, and Tiruchirappalli. The research involved extensive data collection from various settings, where ambient CO₂ levels, temperature, and humidity were monitored. The findings indicate that the integration of zeolite filters significantly improved indoor air quality, with CO₂ concentrations reduced from an average of 420 ppm to 296 ppm, representing a notable decrease of approximately 30%. In this research, the indoor air temperature was maintained at an average of 310C after Carbon Capture Storage while the atmospheric conditions were 340C at 1 bar. The amount of CO2 present in the delivery air was reduced by 100 ppm on average. Humidity value started decreasing for longer operating time. The acidic contaminants have hostile reactivity in the presence of H2O, which increases the CO2 affinity of the adsorbent. However, it also causes destructive effects on the alumina centres of zeolite.  Morphological analysis via Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) revealed that zeolite maintained its structural integrity post-capture, with surface roughness and pore filling observed, confirming successful CO₂ adsorption. Furthermore, X-ray Diffraction (XRD) analysis demonstrated minimal structural alteration, ensuring the material's reusability. The study emphasizes the dual benefits of using zeolite, not only as a low-maintenance carbon capture solution but also as a sustainable approach to enhancing indoor air quality. Overall, this research contributes to the understanding of zeolite's capabilities in mitigating CO₂ emissions, highlighting its potential for broader application in domestic carbon capture systems.