CORSI-ROSENTHAL BOX

know better, breathe better

Make your own air cleaner

CADR that matters

The Corsi-Rosenthal Box is an innovative, open-source air purifier design that has become a symbol of grassroots innovation. The CR Box is not just a product but a movement that has shaped our company’s mission and vision.

DO-IT-YOURSELF DIY AIR PURIFIER

An air purifier is simply a combination of a fan attached to one or more filters. The Corsi-Rosenthal Box or CR Box is an affordable, effective do-it-yourself (DIY) air cleaner that was originally created as a single filter fan unit to combat wildfire smoke, but has since exploded in popularity due to its effectiveness against COVID-19, smoke particles, dust, and all kinds of pollutants that contribute to poor indoor air quality (IAQ).

Duct tape, fan and MERV 13 filters make up a CR box

OUR BLOG ON THE CORSI ROSENTHAL BOX

colorful smoke and Chicago Clean Air Resilience logo to the right

Introducing the Chicago Clean Air Resilience Network

Chicago Clean Air Resilience Network or Chi-CARN’s goal is to transform how communities prepare for and respond to air quality emergencies from an individualized burden to a sustainable, collective, and data-backed preparedness infrastructure. Our shared infrastructure allows any nonprofit, community, or neighborhood organization in Chicago to access equipment such as N95 masks, high-CADR air purifiers, and specialized equipment like PortaCount machines and far UVC lights.

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illustration of blue teal mold against a purple background

How to Prevent Mold in the First 48 Hours After Flood

Research across homes, schools, and workplaces shows consistent associations between damp, moldy indoor environments and increased respiratory symptoms, including wheezing, coughing, and asthma exacerbation. These effects don’t require exotic “black mold”; moisture and visible or hidden growth are the signal to act, regardless of species

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orange and yellow collage of bone x rays

Bones Breathe Too: Why Indoor Air Quality Matters for Osteoporosis

Bones need more than calcium to stay strong. New research shows that indoor air pollution—from cooking, gas stoves, wildfire smoke, and even traffic exhaust that seeps indoors—can accelerate bone loss and worsen osteoporosis. The molecules in polluted air spark inflammation, disrupt blood flow, and even leach heavy metals from bone tissue. Cleaner indoor air may be a hidden ally in protecting bone health as we age.

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Endorsed by/Notable mentions

The CR Box has made its way around.

FROM A PROJECT TO A PRODUCT

We are a social startup aiming to manufacture a low-cost, high-performance air purifier inspired by the Corsi-Rosenthal Box. Our journey began once we started making our CR boxes and wondered why there wasn't a comparable product available on the market. Check out our blog post that describes, the people, events, and movement that have shaped our company.

PREPARING FOR WILDFIRE SMOKE

Your first line of defense against wildfire smoke is staying in the know. Reliable sources such as local news, weather apps, or dedicated websites offer real-time updates on wildfires and air quality indexes. This critical information allows you to plan your activities and adjust your daily routines when smoke reaches hazardous levels.

Want to understand the Air Quality Index better? Check out our blog post with downloadable PDFs and charts.