An Active Air Purification System is an advanced technology designed to actively neutralize contaminants in the air and on surfaces throughout an entire space, rather than simply filtering air as it passes through a unit. These systems release purifying agents directly into the environment, offering a comprehensive approach to improving indoor air quality and surface hygiene.
How Active Air Purification Works
Unlike passive air purification systems that rely on air being drawn through filters, active systems proactively seek out and destroy pollutants. They achieve this by generating and dispersing safe, naturally occurring oxidizers and other beneficial air purifiers into the occupied space. These purifiers travel throughout the area, interacting with and neutralizing contaminants in the air and on various surfaces.
Key operational aspects include:
- Generation of Purifying Agents: The system creates active air purification agents, such as advanced oxidants, directly within the unit.
- Dispersion: These agents are then released into the indoor environment, spreading throughout the entire space.
- Contaminant Neutralization: As these agents come into contact with pathogens, allergens, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and odors, they break them down at a molecular level. This process effectively kills a wide range of harmful microorganisms and eliminates unpleasant smells.
- Surface Sanitization: A unique advantage of active systems is their ability to also treat surfaces. The purifying agents settle on desks, walls, equipment, and other areas, providing continuous sanitization.
Key Technologies Utilized
Active Air Purification Systems often integrate cutting-edge technologies to achieve their effectiveness. Two prominent examples include:
Photohydroionization® (PHI Cell) Technology
PHI Cell technology is a patented process that uses a broad-spectrum UV light targeted at a hydrated, catalytic surface. This interaction generates advanced oxidants, such as:
- Hydrogen Peroxide (H2O2): A powerful natural disinfectant.
- Super Oxide Ions (O2−): Highly reactive oxygen species that break down pollutants.
- Hydroxyl Radicals (•OH): Extremely reactive short-lived species that oxidize organic compounds.
These oxidants are then released into the air, where they actively seek out and neutralize pollutants, making the air safer to breathe and surfaces cleaner to touch.
UV Technology
Ultraviolet (UV) light, particularly in the UV-C spectrum, is a well-established method for disinfection. In active air purification systems, UV technology can be used in several ways:
- Internal Sterilization: UV lamps within the purification unit can sterilize air as it passes through, killing airborne pathogens.
- Oxidant Generation: As part of the PHI Cell or similar processes, UV light facilitates the creation of reactive oxygen species that are dispersed into the environment.
The combination of these advanced technologies allows an Active Air Purification System to effectively kill 99% of pathogens, including the virus which causes COVID-19, not only in the air but also on surfaces, leading to significantly improved air quality and a safer environment.
Benefits of Active Air Purification
Implementing an active air purification system offers numerous advantages for various indoor settings:
- Comprehensive Pathogen Reduction: These systems are highly effective at eliminating viruses, bacteria, mold, and fungi from both the air and surfaces.
- Improved Indoor Air Quality: By neutralizing pollutants, they significantly reduce airborne particulate matter, allergens, and other irritants.
- Odor Elimination: Active oxidants break down the molecular structures of odor-causing compounds, rather than just masking them.
- Reduced Cross-Contamination: Continuous sanitization of surfaces helps minimize the spread of germs, creating a safer environment for occupants.
- Proactive Approach: Unlike passive filters, which only clean air that passes through them, active systems send purifiers throughout the entire space.
- Enhanced Safety: For environments like crew cabs or public transport, delivering better air quality and a safer environment can be critical for health and well-being.
Active vs. Passive Air Purification Systems
Understanding the distinction between active and passive systems helps highlight the unique advantages of active air purification.
| Feature | Active Air Purification System | Passive Air Purification System |
|---|---|---|
| Method of Action | Releases purifying agents into the entire space. | Air is drawn through filters within the unit. |
| Target Area | Air and surfaces. | Primarily air that passes through the unit. |
| Contaminant Removal | Actively neutralizes viruses, bacteria, mold, odors, VOCs. | Filters out particles, some gases (with activated carbon). |
| Coverage | Whole-room or whole-vehicle coverage. | Localized, depends on air circulation through the unit. |
| Key Technologies | PHI Cell, UV, advanced oxidation processes (AOPs). | HEPA filters, activated carbon filters, electrostatic precipitators. |
Practical Applications
Active air purification systems are versatile and can be deployed in a wide range of environments where maintaining high air quality and surface hygiene is crucial. Examples include:
- Commercial Buildings: Offices, retail stores, restaurants.
- Healthcare Facilities: Hospitals, clinics, dental offices.
- Transportation: Buses, trains, aircraft cabins, vehicle fleets.
- Educational Institutions: Schools, universities, daycares.
- Residential Homes: For allergy sufferers or general health improvement.
- Industrial Settings: Factories, cleanrooms, where specific air quality standards are needed.
By integrating these advanced systems, facilities can significantly enhance indoor air quality and create healthier, safer spaces for everyone.
