Multi-layer dynamic insulation panels for natural ventilation and filtration of urban air pollution

The present paper reports on the early stages of a collaborative research project between industry and academia, to explore the use of dynamically insulated buildings to counteract and reverse urban air pollution. A theoretical filtration model has been developed and extended to assess dynamic insulation building envelopes employing multi-layer permeable construction. This allows different materials to be combined to provide particulate filtration through depth for a range of particle sizes, and to establish if premature clogging can be sufficiently delayed to make this approach a viable proposition in practice. The project will also to explore the potential for using new materials to filter or convert gaseous pollutants, thus providing a complete solution to the urban pollution problem.