Introducing an Innovative Bio-Based Purification Medium: Processed Puffed Rice Media to Improve Indoor Air Quality

Indoor environments profoundly influence human well-being, constituting over 90% of our daily engagements. The growing awareness of Indoor Air Quality's (IAQ) impact on health and productivity contrasts with the paradoxical role of buildings, designed for protection yet contributing significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. Particularly concerning are classrooms, where dense populations endure prolonged exposure to indoor pollutants. Simultaneously, the UAE faces a rice waste challenge, with 40% of imports ending up as waste annually. This paper proposes repurposing discarded rice into a biobased purification material for ceilings, walls, and décor to enhance IAQ and reduce CO2 emissions. The research outlines the material's formulation, optimal selection, and treatment process, emphasizing its efficacy in capturing CO2. Preliminary findings showcase the material's adaptability, ease of implementation, and potential in diverse decorative designs, reinforcing its promise for reducing CO2 levels sustainably.