Title : Innovative application for the mitigation of airborne pathogens using electrically activated water in air cooling modified device
Abstract:
Introduction: The spread of respiratory illnesses, such as COVID-19 pandemic, has posed a significant threat to millions of lives, leading to thousands of fatalities globally. This has sparked a concerning worldwide health crisis, underscoring the pivotal role of airborne transmission in the spread of infections. HEPA filters are the current industry standard. Nevertheless, they must be used with other air cleaning methods as they present high-pressure drop to the airflow, expensive and consume fan power. Here, a new device for air cleaning from microbes was developed and evaluated for its efficiency. The device uses Electrically Activated Water (EAW), which could be integrated into current Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning systems in healthcare facilities.
Material and Methods: A modified integrated air-cooling portable unit was developed to accommodate the EAW-wicking system used to mitigate airborne diseases. E. coli, Aspergillus spp., and Newcastle virus were nebulized in a contained space. The efficacy of the prototype was assessed. After each cleaning period, the bacteria were quantified by sampling into nutrient agar plates consuming Cascade Impactor. Newcastle virus was collected using an SKC aerosol sampler, and viral load reduction for SARS-COV-2 virus was determined using TCID50/ml and RT-qPCR, while antifungal activity was determined by inhibiting fungus growth.
Results: A lab air cleaning analysis demonstrated significant efficiency of the novel prototype. The technology also showed efficacy in the simulated tertiary hospital and stadium environment.
Conclusions: The novel patented application will globally influence infection control strategies in hospitals and indoor public locations by providing a safe, pathogens-free environment.
