How Biomass Ash Can Make Construction Greener

By RISC | 6 days ago

Did you know that each megawatt of electricity from biomass also generates 200-400 tons of ash?What is biomass ash and why does it matter?Biomass ash is waste from generating electricity with biomass. Different types of biomass produce varying amounts of ash, typically in the range 1-3%. The more electricity, the more ash.Thailand has 226 biomass power plants totaling 2,110 MW. These plants produce nearly 1 million tons of biomass ash each year. So how do we manage such an enormous amount of ash?Proper management of biomass ashBiomass ash is industrial waste and must be disposed of according to environmental regulations. Common disposal methods include sending it to landfill, using it in cement kilns, composting it for fertilizers and soil conditioners, and recycling it for other usesBut the large volume of biomass ash means high disposal costs. Managing 80,000–100,000 tons can cost 10-15 million baht. To reduce disposal costs and boost the value of biomass ash, research has explored uses in construction materials.Can biomass ash be used in cement?Cement is a key material in concrete production. In a hydration reaction it forms calcium silicate hydrate (C-S-H) that strengthens concrete. Replacing cement with biomass ash significantly affects the properties of concrete.Biomass ash mainly consists of calcium oxide (CaO) but has lower amounts of silica (SiO₂), alumina (Al₂O₃), and iron oxide (Fe₂O₃), resulting in reduced hydration reactions. But SiO₂, Al₂O₃, and Fe₂O₃ can still undergo a pozzolanic reaction with calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)₂), forming C-S-H. This reaction enhances the long-term compressive strength, sulfate resistance, and acid resistance of concrete while reducing efflorescence on concrete surfaces.Excessive biomass ash content, however, reduces concrete compressive strength. Biomass ash has smaller particles and is lighter than cement, making the resulting concrete lighter. Its high porosity and surface area also lead to greater water absorption, requiring an increase in water content during the mixing process.Appropriate uses and proportions of biomass ash in constructionThe properties of biomass ash significantly impact concrete performance, depending on its type, chemical composition, and quantity. Using biomass ash is most suitable for non-load-bearing applications, such as curbstones, pavement materials, garden decorations, and ventilation blocksThe recommended replacement ratio for cement is 10-30% by weight, but this depends on the type and quality of biomass ash, concrete composition, and mix proportions.Adding value to biomass ash productsTo compete in the market, biomass ash-based products should have unique features, whether in design, aesthetics, or special functions. This approach not only enhances product competitiveness but also contributes to a sustainable circular economy.Story by: Supunnapang Raksawong, Materials Researcher in Sustainable Building Material, RISCReferencesDepartment of Alternative Energy Development and Efficiency, Ministry of Energy (2025). Biomass Power Plant Location Map in Thailand.Kwancheewa Yongstar, Nuanan Kurakaew, Chukiat Chusakul, and Sunan Monkaew (2024). Development of Interlocking Bricks from Waste Rock Dust and Rubberwood Ash. RMUTP Journal of Science and Technology, Vol. 18, No. 1 (2024).Saroj Damrongsil (2007). Effects of Sugarcane Bagasse and Fly Ash Blended Cement on the Physical and Mechanical Properties of Concrete. KMUTT Journal of Research and Technology, Vol. 30, No. 3, July-September (2007).Ayobami A. B. (2021). Performance of Wood Bottom Ash in Cement-Based Applications and Comparison with Other Selected Ashes: Overview. Resources, Conservation and Recycling, Vol. 166, 105351.

How to Choose Nature-Friendly Lighting

By RISC | 1 week ago

Light isn’t just what we use to see… It also regulates how we and wildlife live our lives each day.The light we see has a wavelength of 400-700 nanometers. But there are also invisible ultraviolet (UV) and infrared (IR) rays.Sunlight is crucial factor for photosynthesis in plants, the foundation of the food chain. Light is used in technologies including medicine, communications, and transport.Alongside all these benefits, though, excessive or inappropriate light causes "light pollution", an environmental issue that’s often overlooked. This pollution can harm both us and the environment.Unnecessary light such as streetlights, lights from tall buildings, or billboards that shine all through the night can disrupt wildlife’s natural behavior. Creatures lose balance in their lives. Migratory birds fly off course. Sea turtles get disoriented by coastal lights. Many other wild creatures also need the dark to survive.To reduce the impact of light pollution on animals and the environment, we should choose appropriate lighting that won’t disturb the lifecycle and behavior of wildlife.Suitable lighting should have a correlated color temperature (CCT) of no more than 3000 Kelvin (K). The wavelength range should be about 600-700 nanometers, giving a warm white light. Light should have a clear direction, not spreading widely or shining to the sky or where animals live. We can also help reduce light pollution by turning off unnecessary lights. Don’t leave lights on during the night. Use timers to ensure lights are only on when needed. Proper use and management of light can help reduce light pollution and maintain the balance of nature, letting wildlife thrive in its natural habitats.Story by Kotchakorn Rattanama, Biodiversity Researcher, RISC

Don't Become Numb to the Threat of PM2.5…

By RISC | 1 week ago

Are you starting to become indifferent to air pollution alerts? They come so often that we get used to them. But PM2.5 remains a real danger in every breath we take.Thailand has been struggling with PM2.5 for years, especially during the dry season when air pollution often exceeds safe limits. PM2.5 at the start of this year was below the five-year average yet some provinces still experienced several days at hazardous levels. Public health remains at risk and pollution shouldn’t be ignored. MEI Compared to PM2.5 Levels in Different RegionsThe Multivariate ENSO Index Version 2 (MEI V.2) is a multivariate index for the ENSO phenomenon. It integrates various oceanic and atmospheric variables to assess the ENSO index, including Sea Level Pressure (SLP), Sea Surface Temperature (SST), Surface Zonal Winds (U), Surface Meridional Winds (V), and Outgoing Longwave Radiation (OLR). MEI is used to evaluate El Niño (MEI value above 0) and La Niña (MEI value below 0). The health impacts of PM2.5 accumulate over time. They can lead to illnesses such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and cancer. In Bangkok, as well as in provinces like Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, and Phayao, where PM2.5 levels get extremely high, people can experience acute symptoms related to respiratory diseases, cardiovascular diseases, skin conditions, and eye infections.PM2.5 levels vary each year with 2 main factors: meteorological conditions and pollution from various sources.From a meteorological perspective, wind plays a crucial role—both its direction and speed. Strong winds help disperse pollutants. The height of the atmospheric mixing layer (where pollutants can rise and spread) directly affects pollution levels. If this layer is low, pollutants accumulate near the ground, causing PM2.5 concentrations to rise.Another factor is rainfall and humidity, which can help remove airborne particles. High humidity and heavy rain effectively reduce PM2.5 levels and lower the chances of open burning, a major source of air pollution in many regions of the country. On a larger scale, the PM2.5 issue is also linked to global climate phenomena such as El Niño and La Niña, which influence rainfall patterns in Thailand. La Niña, which brings more rain, reduces open burning. El Niño brings drought and an increase in fires. These mechanisms show how air pollution is linked to climate, geography, and human activities.PM2.5 stems from different causes across Thailand.In Bangkok and the Eastern Region, primary pollution sources include traffic, factories, and power plants. PM2.5 levels peak during the winter due to stagnant air trapping pollutants. Pollution from open burning in surrounding areas further worsens the situation in the summer.In the North and Northeast, PM2.5 primarily comes from open burning in agricultural and forested areas. In the North, pollution levels can exceed the safety standard by 10 times during the dry season, aligning with an increase in hotspot detections from forest and farmland fires. Transboundary haze from neighboring countries further exacerbates the problem.In the South, air pollution levels are generally lower due to prolonged rainy seasons and high humidity. But the region isn’t always safe. Towards year-end, the South is affected by transboundary haze, particularly from fires in equatorial regions, where smoke can travel thousands of kilometers over the ocean.The most effective way to combat PM2.5 pollution is to address its root causes. But this requires long-term solutions and collaboration between the government, private sector, and the public. What we can all do right now is protect ourselves—the first line of defense against air pollution.A simple principle to remember is: "Minimize exposure to PM2.5 as much as possible." Stay informed about air quality levels before going outside, wear an N95 mask in high-risk areas, avoid outdoor activities when pollution levels are high, use air purifiers, or stay in PM2.5-free environments."FAHSAI" air purification tower is an example of an initiative for cleaner spaces. It may provide an option for those looking to reduce exposure to pollution. Self-protection doesn’t address the issue’s root causes but provides an immediate solution to reduce health risks for ourselves and our loved ones.PM2.5 is an invisible but ever-present threat, lingering in our every breath. If we ignore it or become indifferent, it may become a crisis we can’t fix.Story by Assoc. Dr. Patipat Vongruang, Assistant Dean, Faculty of Public Health, University of Phayao, and Napol Kieatkongmanee, Senior Sustainable Designer and TREES-A, Building Technology, Intelligent Systems, Innovative Solutions Specialist, RISC

How Photocatalytic Coating Turns Buildings into Air Purifiers

By RISC | 2 weeks ago

PM2.5 never seems to really go away… So what can we do?Fine particulates with a diameter of 2.5 microns or less—30 times smaller than the width of a human hair—can enter our bodies through our respiratory system and even reach our bloodstream. Exposure to PM2.5 can cause eye, nose, and throat irritation. Breathing can become difficult and we might feel chest pain. Long-term exposure may increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases and respiratory conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).Outdoor air pollution and PM2.5 are classed in Group 1 (Carcinogenic to Humans) by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). There is enough evidence to confirm their role as carcinogens. PM2.5 causes lung cancer, according to research.We can protect ourselves from PM2.5 with N95 masks or air purifiers with HEPA filters (H10–H14), able to trap particles as small as 0.3 microns with an efficiency of 85%–99.995%. But did you know that some building materials reduce dust? Photocatalytic coating is a surface treatment that can reduce pollution. This coating often contains titanium dioxide (TiO2). When it’s exposed to sunlight, a chemical reaction on the surface generates hydroxyl radicals (OH·) and superoxide anion radicals (O2-·). These radicals break down air pollutants including dust, gases, bacteria, viruses, and mold. The pollutants form carbon dioxide (CO2) and water (H2O), making them harmless to health. Research has shown that titanium dioxide can decompose up to 92% of the carbon content in PM2.5 while releasing carbon dioxide, effectively reducing the harmful impact of PM2.5.Photocatalyst coatings are already widely applied to construction materials such as glass, roofing materials, and wall paint. These coatings help surfaces clean themselves by preventing the accumulation of dust and pollutants. They also inhibit the growth of bacteria and mold. And they help cool buildings, ultimately reducing energy consumption.Story by: Supunnapang Raksawong, Materials Researcher in Sustainable Building Material, RISCReferences:IARC Monographs. Outdoor Air Quality Volume 109Dr. Piboon Jinawat. "Photocatalyst Building Materials." National Academic Conference, Architectural Paradigm, 2015Misawa K, Sekine Y, Kusukubo Y, Sohara K. Photocatalytic degradation of atmospheric fine particulate matter (PM2.5) collected on TiO2 supporting quartz fiber filter. Environ Technol. 2020 Apr;41(10):1266-1274.

How Green Spaces Give You a Better Life

By RISC | 2 weeks ago

Did you know that an acre of mature trees can absorb as much carbon dioxide in a year as a car produces in 26,000 miles?Spending time around trees brings you many benefits, from lower stress to higher cognitive abilities. Trees are vital to human well-being. And, as cities continue to grow and develop, trees are becoming even more important…1. Encouraging an Active LifestyleCities with more trees and green spaces encourage people to use public areas and support local businesses. Green spaces boost outdoor activities and exercise, such as strolling in parks or playing outdoor sports. These activities improve public health and build social bonds, fostering community and safety. Well-designed green spaces with walkways and cycling paths encourage people to use vehicles less, improving air quality and alleviating congestion.2. Physical Well-Being and Stress ReductionSpending time in green spaces, such as through forest bathing, helps regulate blood pressure and promotes a sense of calm. Office workers with views of trees report lower stress levels and higher job satisfaction. Trees can also reduce surface temperatures by up to 12°C, helping to mitigate heat-related health issues. Research by Forest Research in the UK has found that visiting forests supports mental well-being and could save the National Health Service (NHS) up to £185 million each year in healthcare costs.3. Enhancing Emotional and Cognitive DevelopmentNature helps alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety, particularly among young people. Just five minutes in a green space can yield mental health benefits. Additionally, exposure to nature stimulates brain regions associated with creativity and problem-solving, improving focus and workplace productivity. Studies on children indicate that playing and learning in green environments enhance cognitive development, memory retention, and analytical thinking. Walking through a park or forest also provides a mental break from daily stressors, leading to greater relaxation and long-term happiness.4. Creating Safer CommunitiesAreas with fewer trees often experience higher rates of crime and violence. Urban greenery can help reduce fear and enhance community safety. Well-maintained green spaces encourage people to spend more time in public areas, fostering natural surveillance that deters crime, such as theft and assault. Additionally, roadside trees significantly improve indoor air quality, reducing nearby pollution levels by more than 50%. Trees also help mitigate noise pollution from traffic and urban activities, contributing to a more peaceful and livable community.Trees clearly play a crucial role in promoting human health and well-being. Beyond improving air and water quality, trees provide habitats for wildlife, foster social connections, and support overall public health. Trees further offer a cost-effective solution for mitigating the severe impacts of climate change, such as heat waves, droughts, and flooding. Recognizing the importance of trees not only enhances our quality of life but also helps build healthier, safer, and more vibrant communities.Story by Vasuta Chan, Senior Sustainable Designer, LEED AP BD+C, WELL AP, Fitwel Ambassador, RISCReference by1. TreePeople Organization. (n.d.). 22 benefits of trees. Retrieved from https://treepeople.org/22-benefits-of-trees/​2. Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. (2021). The health benefits of trees. Retrieved from https://hsph.harvard.edu/news/the-health-benefits-of-trees/​3. Arbor Day Foundation. (n.d.). The value of trees. Retrieved from https://www.arborday.org/value​4. NHS Forest. (n.d.). Why do humans need trees for health? here's what you.... Retrieved from https://nhsforest.org/blog/humans-need-trees-for-health/​5. Savatree. (n.d.). The importance of trees - learn value and benefit of trees. Retrieved from https://savatree.com/resource-center/tree-varieties/why-trees/​6. Immerse yourself in a forest for better health. Retrieved from https://dec.ny.gov/nature/forests-trees/immerse-yourself-for-better-health

Which Trees Protect You Best from Pollution?

By RISC | 3 weeks ago

Your air purifier might be working hard during the dust season but trees are also heroes in filtering out dust!Trees can trap PM2.5 with hairy, smooth, or rough leaves or with their complex branches. They also absorb pollutants through their stomata while performing photosynthesis.16 plant species were tested with incense smoke inside a box for 30 minutes. "Aglaonema" worked best, capturing PM2.5 at 30.87%, followed by the "Snake Plant" with 23.70%.Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chairat Tri-Trapsuntorn tested plants in a closed system with a 1 cubic meter volume, starting with a PM2.5 concentration of 450-500 micrograms per cubic meter. "Velvet Carpet" reduced dust by over 60% and "Snake Plant" by over 40%. These ornamental plants can grow indoors or near windows to capture dust before it blows into your house.If you have outdoor space, you can also design a garden to help reduce pollution.Researchers from King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi, Srinakharinwirot University, and Kasetsart University published a prototype garden using trees to sustainably reduce PM2.5 dust, supported by the National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT). This garden mimics an ecosystem where trees have diverse characteristics. They selected trees with 3 height levels:- Large trees, such as Royal Poinciana, Indian Rosewood, and Champak- Medium-sized trees, such as Moke and Ficus- Shrubs, such as Areca Palm, Peace Lily, Bird’s Nest Fern, Aglaonema, Calathea, and Peacock CalatheaThe 3-tiered planting system helps to block and trap dust. Plant at least 2 layers: a layer of small shrubs facing the wind and a second layer alternating between medium-sized shrubs and large trees. This arrangement slows airflow and allows the dust particles to be trapped more effectively by plant leaves. Moisture from transpiration increases the weight of the dust particles, making them fall faster. Watering the plants once a week helps clean the leaves and increase soil moisture. The system can block dust by 20-60%.Story by Panpisu Julpanwattana, Senior Sustainable Designer and TREES-A Specialist, RISC​References:Kantitat Thapsuwan, Siradech Surit. (2021). Dust Particle Capture from Incense Smoke Using Indoor Plants. Journal of Buddhist Social Science and Anthropology, 6(12), 80-93.Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chairat Treesubsuntorn. (2022). Sustainable PM Phytoremediation by Perennial Plants. National Research Council of Thailand.

PM2.5 Is Even Worse Than You Thought… It Also Harms Your Brain!

By RISC | 1 month ago

PM2.5 Is Even Worse Than You Thought… It Also Harms Your Brain!Thailand faces the challenge of PM2.5 air pollution at the start of every year. PM2.5 is a major cause of respiratory issues, from allergies and pneumonia to lung cancer. Protecting yourself can be tough. You need to wear a specialized mask outdoors and use air purifiers inside.But an even more alarming issue is emerging. Recent research suggests that PM2.5 harms not only physical but also mental health.A study by Susanna Roberts, published in 2019, on NO2 and PM2.5 air pollution in London studied how PM2.5 affect children under 12. Kids exposed to PM2.5 were at a significantly higher risk of developing depression by 18. The study hypothesized that the dust triggers neuroinflammation, affecting emotional regulation and increasing stress.Another study, by Liuhua Shi in 2023, looked at dementia and long-term exposure to fine particles in the United States. The research found that prolonged exposure to PM2.5 increases the risk of dementia, particularly when the particles originate from agricultural activities or wildfires.Studies suggest PM2.5 has severe health impacts on both physical and mental well-being. The risks extend beyond the general population to vulnerable groups such as children and the elderly. We encourage you to protect yourself from air pollution.Nattapat Tanjariyaporn, Senior Researcher in Brain Computer Interface, RISC​References:Exploration of NO2 and PM2.5 air pollution and mental health problems using high-resolution data in London-based children from a UK longitudinal cohort study (2019)Incident dementia and long-term exposure to constituents of fine particle air pollution: A national cohort study in the United States (2023)

Nature, Child Development, and Family Relationships

By RISC | 1 month ago

Given the chance, would you prefer to live in nature? Would you like to be near the sea, mountains, waterfalls, trees, or streams each day, rather than waiting for weekends or holidays to reconnect with nature?Being close to green spaces boosts our physical and mental health. It helps us relax, reduces our stress and anxiety, alleviates depression, and even promotes longevity. Studies show that living in green settings can lower the risk of respiratory diseases and cancer, reduce the risk of heart disease and diabetes, strengthen bones through sunlight exposure, and boost the immune system by increasing our contact with natural microorganisms.Lots of studies from around the world support these findings. Living in an area with 20% green space can significantly reduce stress and depression, according to research published by Oxford University Press. If the green space exceeds 30%, anxiety levels also drop. It’s no wonder we feel drawn to greenery and want to live closer to nature.Simply seeing green surroundings helps us relax. But imagine how much our lives improve if all the family enjoys nature every day, whether it’s going for a walk, exercising, or simply sitting together and sharing stories… All these simple moments help build family bonds.Two great ways to boost physical and mental well-being, while bringing your family closer, are gardening and relaxing outdoors.Gardening improves motor skills when we dig, loosen soil, pull up weeds, pick up leaves, or water plants. But it also relieves stress. Just 30 minutes of gardening can reduce cortisol, the stress hormone, bringing the body back to a normal, relaxed state, according to research.Relaxing outdoors boosts physical, linguistic, cognitive, creative, and social development. Different types of play influence various aspects of growth:- Active Play – Running, climbing, and jumping strengthen muscles strength and boost skills and balance.- Sensory Play – We can engage different senses by studying plants, listening to water and bird songs, or capturing nature’s beauty through photography or painting.- Social Play – Activities like group discussions and team games improve social skills and teamwork.- Passive Play – Taking a stroll, relaxing on a hammock, or engaging in restful activities helps us unwind and build social bonds through conversation.Living by green spaces that encourage outdoor activities enhances life. It supports childhood development, benefits all age groups, slows aging, and reduces the risk of chronic diseases. We also suffer less stress and anxiety,  leading to a healthier, happier family.When all the family enjoys good physical and mental well-being, we gain stronger relationships, deeper understanding, and greater family harmony.Story by Saritorn Amornjaruchit, Assistant Vice President of RISCReferences:Beyer, K. M., et al., Exposure to Neighborhood Green Space and Mental Health: Evidence from the Survey of the Health of Wisconsin, 2014.​Cox, D. T. C., et al., Doses of Neighborhood Nature: The Benefits for Mental Health of Living with Nature. Bioscience, 2017.​Elizabeth Pegg Frates, Time spent in green places linked with longer life in women, 2017.​James P, Hart JE, Banay RF, Laden F, Exposure to Greenness and Mortality in a Nationwide Prospective Cohort Study of Women, 2016.​Maureen Bennie, How Does Your Garden Grow? Mental Health, Wellness & Skills Development Through Gardening, 2020.​Rook, G.A.W. Regulation of the immune system by biodiversity from the natural environment: an ecosystem service essential to health, 2013.​Soga, M., et al., Health benefits of urban allotment gardening: improved physical and psychological well-being and social integration. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 2017.​Van Den Berg, A. E., & Custers, M. H., Gardening promotes neuroendocrine and affective restoration from stress. Journal of Health Psychology, 2011.​

How does dust affect our health? Who should be cautious?

By RISC | 1 month ago

When dust becomes part of daily life, we have to be aware and protect ourselves to avoid serious diseases.Bangkok and several other provinces have recently faced excessive PM2.5. We’ve grown accustomed to smog replacing clear blue skies and daily news reports on hazardous dust levels. Our health is affected as well as visibility.This January, PM2.5 levels in Bangkok and its surrounding areas surged so high that the city ranked among the most air-polluted in the world. People had to quickly adapt by wearing protective masks, installing air purifiers indoors, or even avoiding outdoor activities altogether. However, many still do not fully understand the extent of harm these fine dust particles can cause to the body or who is most vulnerable to their effects.The particulate matter we often talk about, such as PM2.5 and PM10, consists of tiny airborne particles generated by vehicle emissions, industrial activities, construction, and forest burning. PM2.5, in particular, is 25 times smaller than a human hair, allowing it to penetrate the respiratory system and enter the bloodstream. Once inside the body, these particles do not just stop at the nose or lungs—they can travel to other organs and pose serious health risks.Who is most at risk?Although PM2.5 dust affects everyone who breathes it in, certain groups are particularly vulnerable due to their fragile health conditions or pre-existing illnesses that make them more susceptible to its harmful effects. Let's take a look at who needs to be most cautious and take extra care.- Young Children: Children's respiratory systems and lungs are still developing, making them particularly sensitive to dust exposure. Inhaling large amounts of PM2.5 can hinder lung growth, increase the risk of asthma, allergies, and respiratory infections.Basic precautions: Parents should avoid taking young children outdoors when pollution levels are high and install air purifiers at home to create a safer environment.- Elderly Individuals: As people age, their immune systems weaken, and their lung and heart functions decline. PM2.5 exposure can exacerbate chronic conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cardiovascular disease, and strokes.Basic precautions: Keep the indoor environment clean, avoid outdoor activities on days with high pollution, and seek medical attention immediately if symptoms like shortness of breath or chest pain arise.- Pregnant Women: Fine dust particles can enter the mother's bloodstream and affect fetal development, leading to low birth weight, premature birth, or delayed development. Exposure to polluted air during pregnancy also increases the risk of complications.Basic precautions: Pregnant women should avoid high-pollution areas, wear N95 or KF94 masks when going outside, and use appropriate air purifiers at home.- Individuals with Chronic Illnesses: People with pre-existing conditions such as heart disease, lung disease, diabetes, or allergies are more susceptible to PM2.5’s harmful effects. The dust can trigger inflammation in the body, worsening organ function and causing symptom flare-ups.Basic precautions: Those with chronic illnesses should consult their doctors on how to manage their condition during high-pollution periods and always carry necessary medications.- Outdoor Workers: Construction workers, taxi drivers, motorcycle couriers, and street vendors are regularly exposed to high levels of dust. Daily inhalation of PM2.5 can significantly increase the risk of developing long-term respiratory diseases.Basic precautions: If working outdoors during high pollution levels, wearing an N95 mask properly and taking breaks in dust-free areas whenever possible is recommended.Other Groups That Should Be Cautious:- Outdoor Exercisers: Rapid breathing during exercise increases dust inhalation, exposing the body to higher amounts of pollutants.- Smokers: The combination of smoking and air pollution further heightens the risk of lung and heart diseases.Regardless of whether you belong to a high-risk group, protecting yourself from air pollution is essential for everyone. Good health starts with awareness and daily self-care, especially in times of severe pollution like this.Story by Phetcharin Phongphetkul, Sustainable Designer, LEED®AP BD+C, WELLTM AP, Fitwel Ambassador, ActiveScore AP, TREES-A NC, RISC​

Fahsai Mini

By RISC | 1 month ago

At the beginning of the year, you may have woken up to see a blanket of white mist covering the surroundings. Checking an air quality application or measurement device, you’d have found the haze was hazardous air pollution, with PM2.5 levels soaring to alarming heights. Air pollution has become an increasingly severe issue this year, appearing to last longer and posing greater risks to public health. Do we have to live with this pollution forever? RISC remains committed to developing innovations for better living. Since 2020, RISC has been continuously improving the "Fahsai" air purification towers to combat PM2.5 pollution in Thailand. The project began with Fahsai 1, followed by Fahsai 2 and Fresh One, with installations in key locations such as True Digital Park, where PM2.5 levels were reduced by 50%, and the University of Phayao, which saw a 40% reduction. These purification towers create "safe zones" with cleaner outdoor air. RISC continues to enhance its air purification technology, leading to the development of the latest model, the hybrid automatic air purification tower "Fahsai Mini." This version is designed for easy mobility and installation while improving efficiency. It can purify up to 60,000 cubic meters of air per hour with an effective purification radius of up to 50 meters—equivalent to the air-purifying capacity of 700 trees (based on laboratory test results). Additionally, it can eliminate bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Proven Effectiveness of Fahsai MiniIn mid-January, PM2.5 levels surged. The Fahsai Mini demonstrated its efficiency in reducing pollution compared to nearby areas without air purification towers. The latest air quality measurements recorded on 31 January 2025, at 08:30 AM showed the following data:📌 PM2.5 levels from AirVisual: 147 µg/m³ (08:00–09:00 average)📌 PM2.5 levels from on-site measurement tools: 152 µg/m³📌 PM2.5 levels near the Fahsai Mini tower: reduced to 63 µg/m³ These results indicate that the Fahsai Mini significantly improves air quality by reducing PM2.5 levels by up to 60%, helping to mitigate health risks for people in the affected areas. Introducing the Fahsai Mini The Fahsai Mini applies the Venturi Scrubber system, commonly used for industrial air pollution control, adapted into a hybrid automatic air purification tower. This innovation aligns with health and environmental sustainability goals while enhancing overall well-being. Fahsai Mini is more compact than its predecessors, making it easier to transport and install. However, it retains comparable air purification efficiency, PM2.5 filtration capacity, and pathogen elimination capabilities. Compact size: 3.2 meters in height, 1.35 meters wide at the base. High airflow capacity: Two intake fans at 30,000 m³/h each (total 60,000 m³/h). Wide coverage area: The air output fan also operates at 60,000 m³/h, capable of covering an area equivalent to a football field per hour. The Fahsai Mini starts by drawing in air from its side panels using high-powered fans. The air enters a cylindrical chamber, where it passes through dual high-speed water spray nozzles that create a cyclonic pattern, effectively capturing airborne pollutants. Uses a multi-layer filtration system with a specialized structure to enhance water surface tension, allowing for more effective dust capture. Filters out particles as small as 0.3 microns, smaller than PM2.5 and PM10. Uses UVGI technology to eliminate bacteria and viruses before releasing clean air. Equipped with hybrid power technology, consuming 600–3,000 watts per hour depending on pollution levels. Uses only 50 liters of water per day, with a partial water recycling system incorporating ozone and filtration technology for water purification. RISC has developed multiple air purification models tailored for different environments. Learn more about previous versions:Fahsai 1: https://web.facebook.com/riscwellbeing/videos/494956578093907/ ​ ​Fahsai 2: https://web.facebook.com/riscwellbeing/posts/2746237258972773 ​Fresh One: https://web.facebook.com/riscwellbeing/posts/2494077847522050​ For inquiries or further details about the Fahsai project, please contact:Mr. Nisit Wichaisakul (D Supreme Co., Ltd.)Tel: 061-789-2687Email: nisit_wi@dtgo.com Story by Napol Kieatkongmanee, Senior Sustainable Designer and TREES-A, Building Technology, Intelligent Systems, Innovative Solutions Specialist, RISC