Start-up unveils AI system to tackle construction dust pollution

A clean-tech start-up supported by Oxford Brookes University has launched an AI-driven misting system designed to reduce harmful dust levels on construction and industrial sites.

Oxfordshire-based Mistify AI’s autonomous dust suppression system combines AI, patented nozzle technology and solar power to disperse ultra-fine atomised mist, which binds airborne particulates before air quality deteriorates.

The firm said trials of the system showed average reductions of 84 per cent in PM2.5 particles and 73 per cent in PM10.

These particles are linked to conditions including lung disease and cancer.

According to the Health and Safety Executive, more than 500 construction workers in the UK die every year due to silica dust exposure.

Mistify’s units use embedded cameras and laser sensors to monitor conditions and predict air quality decline.

The system uses machine learning to initiate misting automatically, adjusting spray intensity in real time and targeting high-risk zones.

It also uses up to 80 per cent less water than conventional dust control methods, according to Mistify.

The technology is being backed by Oxfordshire Greentech, Enterprise Oxfordshire, Oxford City Council and the British Library’s Business and IP Centre.

Mistify said its system was scalable and suitable for use across a range of industrial and construction sites.

The company has set a seed-funding target of £1.5m to support engineering, certification and further testing of the dust suppression system.

Source: Mistify AI press release