Leading the Way in Reducing Fine Particulate Matter in Public Facilities!
KIMM Enhances Public Safety with Filter-Free Ultrafine Particle Reduction Technology for Large Indoor Spaces

- Removes 90% of ultrafine particles using an ozone-free electrostatic method

- Expanding installations in large indoor spaces such as subways, department stores, and schools

- Zero filter replacement costs, reduced maintenance expenses…
Accelerating commercialization as a next-generation air purification technology

□ The world’s top-tier high-capacity filter-free ultrafine particle reduction technology is now being deployed in subways, schools, department stores, and other large public facilities, significantly improving the living environment for citizens.

□ The research team led by Dr. Hak Joon Kim, Principal Researcher at Department of Urban Environment Research of the Korea Institute of Machinery & Materials (President Seog-Hyeon Ryu, hereinafter referred to as KIMM) has developed an eco-friendly air purification technology that reduces ultrafine particulate matters without the use of filters. This state-of-the-art filter-free air purification system utilizes electrostatic force while minimizing ozone generation. By incorporating microfiber discharge electrodes and non-metallic carbon plates, the system operates on low current yet removes more than 90% of ultrafine particles. Additionally, it resolves the ozone issue inherent in conventional electrostatic methods, with an ozone emission level below 5 ppb—only one-tenth of the concentration found in general atmospheric conditions.

[ Dr. Hak Joon Kim, Principal Researcher, Department of Urban Environment Research at KIMM(right) ]

□ This technology is particularly effective in large spaces, offering efficient air purification without the drawbacks of traditional filter-based systems. Conventional air purifiers with filters suffer from decreased airflow due to clogging and require costly replacements. In contrast, KIMM’s technology does not obstruct airflow, enabling the efficient purification of large volumes of air while eliminating the need for filter replacement, thus significantly reducing maintenance costs. In subway tunnel applications, the system does not require ducts, cutting manufacturing costs by more than 30%.

□ The technology has been successfully tested in subway tunnels at Seodaejeonnegeori Station, Oryong Station, and Jung-gu Office Station in Daejeon. A filter-free air purifier designed for schools is also under CA certification process and is set for wider deployment, with pilot installations currently underway in an elementary school in Busan. Additionally, a pilot test in the HVAC system of a department store in Gyeonggi-do confirmed its fine particulate matter reduction effectiveness in commercial settings.

□ Principal Researcher Dr. Hak Joon Kim of KIMM stated, “This is the only technology that has fundamentally solved the ozone emission issue, which has long been a barrier to applying electrostatic methods indoors. Moreover, it is economically viable, reaching the break-even point within approximately three years after initial deployment.” He added, “We are preparing for broader adoption through the Designation of Innovative Products, KC Certification for electrical safety, and CA Certification for air purifiers.”

[ Dr. Hak Joon Kim, Principal Researcher, Department of Urban Environment Research at KIMM ]