MultiPLE-ATMOS: CSIR–IITR Develops Air-Cleaning Device to Combat Urban Smog

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MultiPLE-ATMOS: CSIR–IITR Develops Air-Cleaning Device to Combat Urban Smog

Analysis

Scientists at the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research–Indian Institute of Toxicology Research (CSIR–IITR), Lucknow, have developed a new device named MultiPLE-ATMOS, designed to “wash” polluted air and reduce smog levels in urban areas.
The device was unveiled during the four-day conference “Emerging Approaches in Risk Analysis and Translational Aspects of Health and Environment (EARTH)” hosted by IITR.
Developed over two years at a cost of around ₹5 lakh, the prototype aligns with the goals of the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) and supports the Atma Nirbhar Bharat initiative.
During trials, the machine achieved a reduction in air pollutants by 83–94% in flat terrain and is capable of treating up to 1,000 cubic metres of air per hour.
The device targets pollutants listed under the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS), 2009, including PM2.5, PM10, sulphur monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide, nitrogen trihydride, and toxic metals like lead, arsenic, and nickel, along with airborne pathogens.
Technology Integration: MultiPLE-ATMOS employs a combination of mechanical separation for particulate matter, photo-catalytic oxidation, and wet scrubbing for removal of gaseous pollutants.
Mounted on a four-wheel trolley, it is designed for deployment at traffic junctions, industrial areas, construction and demolition sites, and other pollution hotspots.
The treatment process produces environmentally safe and recyclable by-products, including gypsum, which can be reused in various industries.
According to IITR Director Bhaskar Narayan, the device is ready for industrial adaptation and mass production, with a call for collaboration between policymakers and industries for widespread deployment.

Static/Background Information

CSIR–IITR (Indian Institute of Toxicology Research): A premier laboratory under the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), focusing on research in environmental health and toxicology.
National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS), 2009: Defined by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, these standards regulate permissible limits for major air pollutants.
National Clean Air Programme (NCAP): Launched in 2019 by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) to reduce PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations by 20–30% by 2024 (with extended targets).
Atma Nirbhar Bharat: A national initiative promoting indigenous innovation, self-reliance, and industrial growth through local research and development.

Updated – 13 Nov 2025 ; 04:30 AM | Hindustan Times