Advances In Air Purification Technology

Advances in modern technology has greatly improved air purification technology. Purifying air isn't a new concept, actually, crude versions were found in the 1600s. They may have been simple respirator devices, but the world knew the need for clean, breathable air. This article will explore how far technology has come to improve air quality, and briefly explain the science involved.

The concept of air purification may not be new, but it wasn't until the 1940s that major advances in technology were seen. It was the army chemical corps that saw a need, then ultimately developed high efficiency particle air filtration. This technology is better known as HEPA filtration, and has an amazing 99.97 percent efficiency. Although the method is basic mechanical filtration, it is still widely used in conjunction with advanced purification technologies. 

Electronic filtration technology has been improving, with the use of ionizers. There are many types of inonzing air purification, but most fall into two main categories ion generators, and electrostatic precipitators. These are mostly silent, and able to capture particles too small for HEPA style filtration.

Ion generators charge, and release ions into the air, which then attach themselves to airborne particles. The disadvantage is, when ions attach to particles they fall, and land on household surfaces. Recent advancements have also allowed generation of ionized hydroperoxides. Because it functions in much the same way, but also killing many bacteria, and contaminants it is widely used in medical settings. 

While electrostatic precipitators make use of charged particles, it does so in quite a different method. These devices actually draw particle contaminants from the surrounding air in, and pass through an ionizing chamber. This give the particles an electrostatic charge, which then pass through oppositely charged collection plates. The Plates, due to the opposite charge, attract the contaminants, and allow clean air to pass back to the room. While this style does keep the surrounding room free of dust collecting on surfaces, the collection plates require regular cleaning to remain effective. 

Photocatalytic oxidation, better known as PCO, is an up and coming technology in the industry. While not technically a filter, they actually scrub, and purify toxins from the air. Ultraviolet light is effective at sterilization, and in this process, it is also used to react with a catalyst. This catalyst attaches to VOCs, bacteria and viruses then becomes activated by the UV light to oxidize, and degrade the contaminants. This is currently the only effective method of removing contaminants, such as carbon monoxide. This technology is costly, but it can be installed directly in existing duct work, to remain out of sight, and silent. 

While there are many methods of air purification, certain contaminates require specific technology. Matching the right purification technology to your needs will make a drastic difference in air quality.