Air filters – alongside good ventilation where available - helps reduce the transmission of respiratory infections. Basically, a fan draws air through filters which capture particles such as pollutants, pollen, viruses etc. in the surrounding environment.
However, commercially available options are often unaffordable for a typical school budget – hence the attraction of build-your-own, Corsi-Rosenthal air filtration boxes. They’re named ‘Corsi-Rosenthal’ boxes after their two inventors, Richard Corsi and Jim Rosenthal. These DIY air filters can be constructed for a fraction of the price of the commercial equivalent.
Moreover, pupils can be involved in the construction process, providing a valuable learning opportunity. To find out more about why we need clean air in classrooms, what air filtration is and a brief guide to building a Corsi-Rosenthal box, see the guidance. The good news is that a well-constructed DIY air filter performs at least as well if not better than its commercial equivalent.
