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03 Sep 20

Airzone blog

Pros and cons of air purification systems

Avoiding polluted environments is important to prevent diseases such as pneumonia or lung cancer, according to the World Health Organization

If there is anything that conditions the healthiness of an enclosed space, it is undoubtedly the quality of the air that circulates inside.

In the architecture sector, air circulation is a factor of vital importance.  Lack of air renewal can lead to serious diseases such as lung cancer, pneumonia or strokes, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Moreover, the current situation caused by the expansion of the Covid-19 has further alerted us to the importance of keeping the air purified.

1 problem, 5 solutions

Air purification is the operation of a device to limit the spread of harmful waste and prevent possible diseases. Based on this definition, it is possible to highlight the differences between the various existing air purification systems.

Air Purification by ozone (O3)

Despite its unquestionable effectiveness in eliminating viruses and bacteria, the ozone purification system has drawbacks, since its use can be toxic when large concentrations of the product are handled. For this reason, when using ozone to clean the air, there is a limit of 100 microorganisms per cubic meter, as a higher quantity could be harmful to humans.

When there is no risk of contact with people, this purification method is used in protocols such as surgery sterilization.

Ozone, known as O3, is a substance formed by oxygen which in the right concentration serves as a disinfectant.

Although there is not yet sufficient in-depth investigation of its effectiveness against Covid-19, the recommended amount of ozone can be used to combat the disease which is estimated to be around 2 milligrams per cubic meter.

Non-compliance with the concentration limits could cause personal injury, which is why its use is only recommended for uninhabited spaces where it would remain active for about eight hours.

Air purification using ultraviolet radiation (UV-C)

Ultraviolet radiation (UV-C) is effective in killing viruses and bacteria, but its effectiveness decreases when killing some allergens.

This type of radiation attacks nucleic acids, which gives it germicidal properties. In other words, it is powerful enough to kill bacteria.

Regardless of that, this solution is not suitable for environments where people are exposed without protection, as it can cause severe health issues. However, ultraviolet light can be safely handled with appropriate clothing and protective equipment.

Although this type of radiation does not require chemicals to perform its disinfectant function, its use without protective equipment such as glasses or special suits is not recommended, as it can damage the eyes and skin and also cause some types of diseases such as cancer.

Air purification using photocatalytic oxidation

The air purification system through the process of photocatalytic oxidation is known for its ability to inactivate viruses and bacteria when used on surfaces, as well as in wastewater environments. However, its effectiveness in removing harmful elements that can be found in the air is not so evident. Its use is also restricted, as it can negatively affect the human being.

It has been scientifically proven that this process is capable of inactivating both viruses and bacteria in a short amount of time. Titanium dioxide, exposed to ultraviolet light, causes a series of reactions which, in turn, generate ions and substances capable of inhibiting a wide variety of chemical pollutants.

The effectiveness of this process against viruses and bacteria is again overshadowed by its disadvantages. This purification process is slow and therefore often discarded, for example when the aim is to sanitize the air. On the other hand, it is quite effective on surfaces and stagnant water, places where the exposure time is longer.

Air purification through ionization

The ionization process is another option in eliminating bacteria and viruses, although it does not act as effectively as other technologies such as those described above.

Air purification by ionization reduces the concentration of micro-organisms. If the procedure is not carried out correctly, there is a risk for the particles to reappear.

Air purification using electrostatic filtration

The process of air purification through electrostatic filtration can be one of the most effective. This procedure makes it possible to capture particles present in an air stream, thus eliminating the negative effects some of the other methods can cause. The filters can create an electric field with which it is possible to ionize the air and capture pollutants.

On the other hand, just like the other air purification methods which have a wide range of disadvantages, electrostatic filtration also has some downsides. For example, the implementation of this process in places close to humidification and dehumidification systems, as well as in environments where the air is very saturated is not recommended. However, this is something that can be controlled by using powerful fans, which makes the filters act more effectively. 

In conclusion, different methods of air purification can be considered taking into account their advantages and disadvantages at a time imminent action is required due to the current complications the world is facing globally with Covid-19.