Development of a Smart Spirometry Filter Utilizing Silver Nanoparticles Coated on Pulmonary Function Filters to Prevent Bacterial Adhesion

Spirometry filters play a crucial role in pulmonary function testing,  as they prevent bacterial contamination and ensuring accurate results. Typically, these filters are made of fine materials such as nylon, which effectively captures particles and prevents them from entering the machine during testing. However,  the fine structure of nylon filters have a high risk of microbial contamination, posing potential health risks to individuals undergoing pulmonary function tests. To address this issue, recent advancements in filter technology have emerged. One notable innovation involves replacing the conventional nylon filter with metallic stainless steel mesh coated with silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), known for their antibacterial properties. The fabrication process  utilizes a novel deposition technique to coat the filter material with AgNPs, ensure uniform distribution and maximum surface coverage. This modification offers several advantages over traditional filters. The metallic stainless steel mesh provides durability and longevity, ensuring repeated and long-term use without degradation. Additionally, the incorporation of silver nanoparticles imparts antibacterial properties to the filter, effectively inhibiting the growth and transmission of harmful microbes.