Bridging the Biosecurity Gap: High-Efficiency Air Cleaning in Confined Animal Feeding Operations Using Cyclone Plasma Technology

ANTONIO BARATTA, Raj Singh, Hema Ravindran, Gediminas Mainelis, KiposTech LLC

     Abstract Number: 536
     Working Group: Reducing Aerosol Exposure with Control Technologies and Interventions

Abstract
Confined Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs) are significant sources of hazardous bioaerosols and particulate matter (PM), often containing concentrations far exceeding ambient levels. These particles, particularly in the submicron range, readily penetrate avian respiratory systems and frequently act as carriers for airborne pathogens, including highly pathogenic avian influenza strains (e.g., H5N1). Existing air purification technologies, such as wet scrubbers, HEPA filters, and UV systems—are ill-suited for CAFO environments due to high operational costs, limited inactivation efficiency, maintenance complexity, and inability to remove fine particles or prevent secondary contamination.

This study introduces Bazooka™, a novel, integrated electro-mechanical air disinfection system specifically engineered for intensive livestock environments. The device combines cyclone-assisted non-thermal plasma (NTP) for continuous airborne pathogen neutralization with electrostatic precipitation for high-efficiency particulate removal and catalytic adsorption for ammonia and volatile organic compound (VOC) mitigation. This design is optimized to function under high airflow rates with minimal pressure drop, maintaining compatibility with large ventilation systems.

Experimental testing demonstrated Bazooka™’s ability to remove viral-sized particles (10–193 nm) at clean air delivery rates (CADR) of 160–370 CFM, with anticipated scaling to 1,000 CFM in future iterations. Field trials conducted in operational settings recorded an average 72 ± 9% reduction in airborne bacteria and 90 ± 23% reduction in fungal spores, with 5-log reductions in surface microbial loads as measured by ATP bioluminescence assays, indicating strong anti-biofilm performance. Unlike UV or ozone-based systems, Bazooka™ achieves disinfection without harmful byproducts.

Comparative analysis confirms Bazooka™’s superior performance over HEPA filters and wet scrubbers, particularly in removing PM2.5, operating at a pressure drop of <100 Pa, and requiring significantly lower maintenance. These findings validate Bazooka™ as a first-of-its-kind solution tailored for CAFO biosecurity, simultaneously addressing pathogen, dust, and ammonia control in a compact, scalable form factor.