In an era of increasing concern over the impact of wildfire smoke, social media users have found an unexpectedly effective solution to protect themselves from the toxic haze that has engulfed the East Coast. With just a box fan, four air filters, and some duct tape, individuals are sharing their DIY air purifier creations on platforms like TikTok and Facebook, sparking a surge in interest and searches for “air purifiers” on Google. This technique, known as the Corsi-Rosenthal method, has gained attention not only due to the ongoing pandemic but also the relentless wildfires ravaging the western United States.
While West Coast residents are already familiar with the box fan method, some East Coast dwellers are discovering it for the first time. Angel Robertson, a Seattle resident, recently posted a video on TikTok, reaching over 600,000 views, showcasing the step-by-step process of constructing the DIY air purifier. Using duct tape, she forms a box shape with four 20-by-20 air filters and attaches a fan on top. The entire setup costs under $100.
According to public health experts, Corsi-Rosenthal purifiers are highly effective at removing particles from the air. Petri Kalliomäki, a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Maryland’s School of Public Health, highlights their high clean air delivery rate, making them capable of purifying air not only from smoke but also pollen and viruses.
At the University of Connecticut, Misti Levy Zamora, an assistant professor in public health sciences, and her colleagues have been distributing Corsi-Rosenthal purifiers for free to anyone who stops by. Zamora, who has conducted several tests on the purifier, expresses confidence in its efficacy, stating that it can filter out all the particles in the air within minutes.
The power of social media played a significant role in the development of this DIY solution. Richard Corsi, co-inventor and dean of the College of Engineering at the University of California, Davis, attributes the invention’s origin to a sketch he posted on Twitter in 2020. Jim Rosenthal, CEO of Tex-Air Filters, then took the design and built it. Corsi’s goal was to create an affordable air purifier that the average American could easily obtain. Now, he receives feedback from friends in the Northeast who are successfully implementing his idea.
Grace Turner, residing in Rochester, New York, adopted the box fan purifier after learning about it while living in Salt Lake City. She shared her DIY creation on TikTok, emphasizing the positive impact it has had on her home environment. The abundance of online resources allows people to choose from various designs and access the necessary instructions easily.
Liz Hradil, a resident of Syracuse, New York, experienced the discomfort of smoke firsthand as it infiltrated her eyes, nose, and throat during the recent smoke-laden days. In her search for an air purifier, she stumbled upon the Corsi-Rosenthal box and promptly purchased the filters and fan from Lowe’s. Remarkably, within just 30 minutes of operating her DIY purifier, she noticed the absence of the smoky smell.
The Corsi-Rosenthal method is now gaining recognition and praise among those who have adopted it, with individuals sharing their innovative creations and experiencing relief from the hazardous effects of wildfire smoke. As social media continues to play a vital role in spreading awareness about this DIY air purification method. Liz Hradil’s New York friends were astounded by the genius of the Corsi-Rosenthal box after she shared a photo of her setup online. Many had never heard of such a solution before.
As the popularity of the Corsi-Rosenthal method grows, experts emphasize its effectiveness in combating not only wildfire smoke but also other air pollutants. This DIY approach allows individuals to take control of their indoor air quality, particularly during periods of reduced air flow and extended time spent indoors.
Invented by Richard Corsi and brought to life by Jim Rosenthal, the Corsi-Rosenthal method provides an affordable alternative to expensive air purifiers, making it accessible to the average American. Its success in the fight against wildfire smoke has been met with enthusiasm, prompting further exploration of its potential applications.
As individuals continue to battle the adverse effects of environmental hazards like wildfire smoke, the Corsi-Rosenthal method stands as a testament to the power of innovation and the impact of social media in sharing life-saving solutions. With just a box fan, air filters, and some duct tape, anyone can create an effective air purifier to safeguard their health and well-being amidst challenging times.