Omani startup develops safe air purifier based on natural product

Times of Oman

14-07-2025

Muscat: Student innovations are emerging as a key driver for the sustainable future. From the heart of Omani universities, Balil Company developed a smart and safe air purifier based on natural, effective, biodegradable, and environment-friendly components, such as algae.
The company began its journey from an idea to developing a prototype and beyond, combining environmental science and bioengineering to provide a practical and environmental-friendly solution.
Hajar bint Jumaa Al Amri, CEO of Balil Company, said: 'The idea was born from a painful real-life incident: the death of a child inside a vehicle due to high temperatures and the accumulation of toxic gases. This prompted us to consider a real solution to prevent such accidents and improve air quality inside vehicles. We began working on developing a smart and safe air purifier based on natural and effective components.'
Al Amri stated that the company was established in 2023 as part of its participation in the Injaz Oman Student Entrepreneurship Programme. After support and guidance, it became an official startup and obtained a patent and scientific and technical evaluation.
These natural organisms are effective in absorbing carbon dioxide and producing oxygen, making them ideal for natural air purification. Furthermore, they can be easily cultivated in the local environment, reducing reliance on imported resources and enhancing the product's environmental and economic sustainability.
She noted that the technology not only purifies the air but also adds cooling and fragrance features. Furthermore, the device does not rely on industrial filters, so it does not require frequent replacement, making it more sustainable and less expensive in the long run.
Regarding the device's operating mechanism, Hajar Al Amri explained that it combines technology and sustainability. The device operates with a natural filter containing algae for purification. It is charged via a Type-C port or a rechargeable battery, and requires no significant power to operate. The team is currently working on adding a solar-powered charging feature to make the device more autonomous and environmental-friendly.
Al Amri stated that the device contains a temperature sensor that measures the interior temperature of the vehicle. Once it exceeds a certain threshold, it automatically begins cooling and purifying the air, providing additional protection, especially in closed vehicles during peak traffic hours. Maintenance is also easy and does not require technical intervention; the filter must be replaced after a period of use.
Hajar Al Amri stated that the academic environment has helped her receive support, consultations, and guidance from experts and academic professors regarding technical and sustainability aspects.
Regarding laboratory experiments, the CEO of Balil Company said that it started in the laboratories of Sultan Qaboos University during preparations for 20th Science Festival. This provided an opportunity to conduct initial scientific experiments and analyse the performance of the filter and the natural materials used.
Regarding the team members and the disciplines that collaborated to achieve this innovation, she indicated that it consists of nine members from diverse disciplines, including engineering, technology, environment, design, and marketing. This facilitated the project from all angles, from scientific research and development to design, manufacturing, and promotion.
The innovation journey was not without challenges. Hajar Al Amri explained that the lack of specialised local factories to manufacture the company's product was one of the challenges the company faced, noting that the team worked on developing and testing prototypes until it achieved a stable and effective product.
The CEO of Balil also stated that the Public Authority for Small and Medium Enterprises Development, the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources, and the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology played a pivotal role in supporting this innovation, enabling the team to overcome challenges and transform the idea into a successful business model.
The Omani Startup Accelerator also played a prominent role in guiding the team throughout its inception and until graduation from the program.
Regarding the environmental and societal impact, the company's CEO believes that the device can reduce internal vehicle emissions and lower levels of harmful gases inside cars, improving user health and reducing respiratory problems. It also contributes to environmental conservation because it uses natural ingredients.
Regarding the potential use of the device or technology in various spaces, she confirmed that the team has begun studying other applications in closed spaces such as classrooms, offices, and factories.
The CEO of Balil is currently conducting experiments to expand the use of the technology in home ventilation systems, public buildings, and factories.
Regarding expansion and development plans, Al Amri stated that the company has received numerous investment offers to support its project, and that work is ongoing to study these opportunities.
Additionally, the company is working to develop innovative solutions suitable for domestic and industrial uses, enhance sustainability in various fields, integrate smart technologies, and improve product effectiveness to better meet market needs and support a cleaner, healthier environment.
Furthermore, the company has signed international agreements with global partners, which enhances the opportunity to expand and reach new markets outside the Sultanate of Oman.
Regarding the community role, Al Amri explained that trusting the capabilities of youth, supporting local products, and promoting them within the community are among the most effective roles. These roles open up opportunities for collaboration and encourage partnerships between universities and the industrial community, which contribute significantly to the success of such projects.
It's worth noting that Baleel has won several national awards in the field of air purification and environmental protection, including first place for Best Idea in the Innovation and Technology Sector at the Youth Sustainability Camp, second place in the Elite Projects category at the Military Technical College, and fifth place at the First Annual Startup Forum. It is also among the top 12 innovative ideas that qualified to represent the Sultanate of Oman at the Gulf Science Forum, qualified for the Injaz Oman finals from among more than 180 participating companies, and was nominated to represent the Sultanate of Oman at the LEAP Global Exhibition in Saudi Arabia.