Tokyo, like all other major cities has heavy vehicular traffic, and a lot of smog as a result. KojiTakeuchi, a chemical engineer at the National Institute for Resources and Environment in Tsukuba, Japan, has designed a solar-powered smog col1ecting panel. The panels are made of teflon fibres mixed with carbon powder and titanium dioxide, Sunlight activates the titanium dioxide molecules that capture oxygen and watervapour.These then deactivate nitrous and sulphurous oxides -harmful smog components released in car exhaust. The carbon, Takeuchi claims, also attracts other dust-Jike pollutants and holds on to them temporarily until they are dissolved by the watervapour and washed away (Discover, April 1996).
We are a voice to you; you have been a support to us. Together we build journalism that is independent, credible and fearless. You can further help us by making a donation. This will mean a lot for our ability to bring you news, perspectives and analysis from the ground so that we can make change together.
Comments are moderated and will be published only after the site moderator’s approval. Please use a genuine email ID and provide your name. Selected comments may also be used in the ‘Letters’ section of the Down To Earth print edition.