Plasma technologies produce unwanted byproducts
Cold plasmas have been shown to be effective in treating and destroying volatile organic vapors, molds, spores, bacteria, viruses, and other airborne particles. However, plasma discharges produce reactive nitrogen oxides and ozone that must be removed. Current plasma technologies use filters such as activated charcoal to trap hazardous byproducts, but these filters must be exchanged, limiting their practical use as an indoor air purifier.
Innovation deactivates pathogens and mitigates hazardous gas-phase products
This plasma-activated catalytic air purifier can be used to clean enclosed spaces such as aircraft, hospitals, and classrooms—without the need for filters to capture unwanted plasma-produced byproducts. The air purifier has a direct current or variable frequency low-temperature, non-thermal plasma discharge region that can be combined with thermal and plasma-activated catalysts. The plasma components can be dielectric barrier discharge (DBD), micro hollow cathode discharge (MHCD), or a plasma-jet array. The plasmas and catalytic regions individually or collectively deactivate and collect viruses and particles in enclosed or recirculating air spaces and systems while mitigating any hazardous gas-phase product (e.g., ozone, nitrogen oxides) formation and release.
- Effective air purification: Provides treatment strategies for any enclosed space—either used directly in the space or within a circulation and/or air conditioning system
- Synergistic approach: Can be used with UV diode lasers and UV lamps, providing additional contaminant destruction pathways while lowering the potential for dielectric breakdown and plasma formation
- Comprehensive use: Effective for germicide and sterilization activities as well as for hydroxyl-radical production and ozone removal
This innovation could be useful in cleaning enclosed spaces in the following environments:
- Buildings
- Aircraft
- Hospitals
- Classrooms
- Residential homes and apartments
- Hotels and offices
Air Purification System Diagram