Synergistic Geometric and Interfacial Regulation of Silane‐Modified Biomass Aerogels for Sustainable, Low‐Resistance Particulate Filtration

Abstract

ABSTRACT Particulate matter pollution poses a threat to public health, necessitating the development of high‐efficiency, sustainable air filters. Bacterial cellulose (BC) aerogels are promising candidates; however, achieving high filtration efficiency can increase air resistance. We present a surface functionalization‐guided strategy for the precise tuning of aerogel surface groups to alter particle capture behavior and improve filtration performance. Using γ‐aminopropyltriethoxysilane (KH550) as a model silane precursor, we demonstrated enhanced electrostatic adsorption and the formation of dendritic deposition patterns that improved the capture of inhalable particulate matter (PM 2.5 ). The BC‐KH550 aerogels exhibited outstanding filtration efficiency (>99%) while maintaining robust mechanical properties and stability under humid conditions. Theoretical simulations revealed that the enhanced electrostatic interactions following surface modification significantly influenced filtration performance, revealing a synergistic effect between surface functional groups and PM. This advanced the fundamental understanding of the structure‐function relationship of modified BC aerogels and provided a blueprint for designing next‐generation sustainable air filters with tunable surfaces.