ABOUT APHRL
The Air Pollution and Health Research Laboratory (APHRL) at the Department of Mechanical Engineering, Kathmandu University, is an interdisciplinary facility with a pioneering legacy in research, development, and dissemination, particularly in biomass-based improved cooking technologies. Established in 1994 as the Biomass Stove Testing Laboratory, it is one of the department’s oldest and most impactful research facilities, driving both academic progress and community-centered initiatives.
Initially, the laboratory focused on the design, development, testing, monitoring, and commissioning of improved cooking stoves (ICS) to address the diverse needs of communities across Nepal. A key contribution has been the development of the Kathmandu University Metallic Improved Cooking Stove (KU-3 MICS), a versatile model designed for dual purposes: cooking and room heating, with hot water provision for high Himalayan regions. This model was widely disseminated through the Alternative Energy Promotion Center (AEPC), a Government of Nepal focal agency, under a government subsidy program. The lab’s designs have catered to both mud-based stoves for the Terai and mid-hill regions and metallic stoves for colder, high-altitude areas.
In 2022, the laboratory broadened its scope and was renamed the Air Pollution and Health Research Laboratory. This transformation marked a shift toward more comprehensive research objectives, including the design and development of advanced combustion devices fueled by biomass such as wood and pellets, as well as indoor air pollution monitoring. The lab now specializes in measuring pollutants like carbon monoxide (CO) and fine particulate matter (PM2.5), and examining their short- and long-term health impacts.
The laboratory’s research extends beyond combustion technologies. It is actively engaged in renewable energy technologies such as biogas systems (small: 12.5–35 m³, medium: 35–100 m³, and large: >100 m³), biomass gasification, and waste-to-energy solutions. Additional focus areas include indoor and outdoor air pollution, carbon financing, and climate change.
From a health perspective, the laboratory conducts both quantitative and qualitative studies to evaluate the impacts of energy technologies, with an emphasis on biomass cooking systems (traditional and improved). Quantitative studies monitor physiological parameters such as blood pressure, oxygen saturation, exhaled carbon monoxide, and pulse rate. Qualitative studies assess health indicators such as headaches and eye irritation through surveys. Advanced clinical research includes collecting smoke samples for cell and tissue culture experiments to study inflammatory biomarkers.
In collaboration with national and international partners, the laboratory collects biological samples—such as blood, urine, nasal swabs, and sputum—to study short-term pollutant exposure effects on health. This research incorporates proteomic and genetic analyses to detect pollutant-induced changes.
The APHRL also focuses on developing low-cost indoor air pollution (IAP) monitoring devices for ambient air quality assessment and conducting non-destructive research on biomass characterization using Near-Infrared Technology.
The laboratory actively participates in awareness programs on renewable energy technologies and their health implications. Furthermore, it contributes to the global scientific community through presentations at conferences, participation in seminars, and publications in reputable journals.
Through innovative research and practical applications, the Air Pollution and Health Research Laboratory addresses critical challenges at the intersection of clean energy, air quality, and public health. Its efforts significantly contribute to sustainable development and improve the quality of life in Nepal and beyond.
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