This was my first prototype and mostly just so that I could get my idea down on paper. This allowed me to think of ways to improve upon the idea. In this idea, I placed the Clean Culture filter right behind the fan assuming that it would be a starting point to my idea. See Prototype 2.0 below for my final prototype.

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Mr. Bates is a retired teacher who used to teach AP Biology and other biology classes. He helped me to understand the importance of methanotrophs and how they could possibly be used. Mr. Bates explained to me the importance of the methane monooxygenase enzyme in breaking down the bonds of methane. This enzyme uses copper as a catalyst to help break the bonds of methane and turn it into energy that the organism is able to use.

I created this prototype to be modeled after air purifiers. First, there is a fan to draw in air that is able to pass through the filters. Second, there is an activated charcoal filter that filters some pollutants like volatile organic compounds and particulate matter but would still allow methane to pass through. Before exiting the filter the air would pass through my Clean Culture filter where the methane in the air is reduced to nearly nothing. Finally, the air is filtered out of the second fan and into the atmosphere.

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