Hierarchical Cu-MOF hollow nanowire modified copper mesh for efficient antibacterial PM filtration

Abstract

The filtration of fine particulate matter (PM) particles poses a significant threat to public health, with potentially adverse effects on the lungs and blood. Metal mesh filters have shown potential as multifunctional PM filters; however, filtration of fine PM particles is still challenging. In this study, we developed a hierarchical metal–organic-framework-based structure (Cu-MOF hollow nanowires) on copper mesh for PM filtration. The in situ grown three-dimensional (3D) Cu-MOF hollow nanowires effectively reduced the pore size and provided an enhanced electrostatic surface with maximum MOF exposure. This Cu-MOF coated metal mesh demonstrated excellent filtration efficiencies in a small-size PM regime (89.1% for PM0.3, 90.4% for PM0.5, 93.8% for PM1.0, and 98.1% for PM2.5). Furthermore, the filter exhibited excellent antibacterial performance against both S. aureus and E. coli. These attractive metal-based materials show potential in developing energy-saving and high-efficient metal-based filters for various applications.