Advancing Greenhouse Air Filtration: Biodegradable Nanofiber Filters with Sustained Antimicrobial Performance

Air quality management in greenhouses is critical to safeguarding plant health and occupational safety, yet conventional filtration methods often fall short in performance and sustainability. These enclosed environments are prone to the accumulation of bioaerosols, including fungi, bacteria, pollen, and dust particles, which can compromise crop productivity and pose health risks to workers. This review explores recent advancements in air filtration technologies for controlled environments such as greenhouses, where airborne particulate matter, bioaerosols, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) present ongoing challenges. Special focus is given to the development of filtration media based on electrospun nanofibers, which offer high surface area, tunable porosity, and low airflow resistance. The use of biodegradable polymers in these systems to support environmental sustainability is examined, along with electrospinning techniques that enable precise control over fiber morphology and functionalization. Antimicrobial enhancements are discussed, including inorganic agents such as metal nanoparticles and bio-based options like essential oils. Essential oils, known for their broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties, are assessed for their potential in long-term, controlled-release applications through nanofiber encapsulation. Overall, this paper highlights the potential of integrating sustainable materials, innovative fiber fabrication techniques, and nature-derived antimicrobials to advance air filtration performance while meeting ecological and health-related standards.