Photocatalytic oxidation (PCO) air purification methodology is revised based on the decades of the earliest research reports conducted by the United Technologies Research Center (UTRC) and their external classmates. Basically, UTRC people conducted an elementary level of research on the reaction rates of multiple volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The knowledge gained during this whole research method allowed validation of 3D and 1D prototype reactor models that further led to the development of purifier. Almost all the colleagues worldwide authenticated these purifier prototypes in a virtual realistic indoor atmosphere.
The photocatalytic oxidation safety is highly based on PCO (photocatalytic oxidation), which can be termed as an emerging air purifier technology that converts fine elements (up to .1 micron not larger particulate) and toxic gasses into safer amalgams. This photocatalytic oxidation method is FDA approved for eliminating bacteria in poultry and lamb processing, and you can also use it for the cleaning pesticides from vegetables and fruits. The photocatalytic air cleaner often uses wide spectrum ultraviolet light, which reacts with a thin-film titanium dioxide-based chemical catalyst, in the presence of water in order to produce super-oxide ions and hydroxyl radicals which in turn oxidize volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and as a result, the microorganisms get eliminated that are adsorbed on the surface of the catalyst.
During the process of photocatalytic oxidation safety, UVC irradiation gets combined with a catalyst substance titanium dioxide (TiO2) that results in a spontaneous reaction that changes malicious contaminants into carbon dioxide, water, and debris. The air purification method of using photocatalytic oxidation often works by using a pre-existing air system that pulls air through an air conditioning unit (HVAC). This air conditioning unit HVAC passes through the professionally installed ultraviolet light/ titanium dioxide compartments.
When the malicious contaminant-filled ambient air starts circulating through these chambers the microorganisms are attacked by freely moving super-oxide ions and hydroxy radicals (created by UV light and titanium dioxide) while breaking their cellular structure apart and destroying both the intracellular mass and DNA/HNA chromosomes. As a result, harmless water molecules are produced with detritus and carbon dioxide. Though this PCO method has been around for decades, its usage is not widespread because a lot of PCO filters have poor performance and longevity, as they can last only a few months before deactivating. Innovative Labs has explored many varieties of TiO2 and various preparations in order to get a long-lasting and high-performing air purifier.
The intermediate by-products are of high concern amongst people who are much familiar with this technology. The oxidation also eliminates a large number of VOCs however, a small amount of it remains incompletely oxidized and it re-enters the airstream just like other compounds.
Environmental Benefit of Photocatalytic Oxidation Method
The titanium dioxide (TiO2) is suitable for various applications due to its potential application for decaying a great variety of materials and substances present in the air, Photocatalytic active coating systems are capable of reducing environmental contaminations and clearing the surface of various material.
Both the economic and technological importance of the photocatalytic oxidation method has increased considerably over the past few years. The Improvement in air purifier’s performance has been strongly correlated to the advancements in nanotechnology. A diversity of applications ranging from anti-microbial, anti‐fogging, and self‐cleaning surfaces, through air purification and solar-induced hydrogen production, have been developed and many of these techniques have made their unique way into commercial products.
The photocatalytic method does not only kill bacteria cells, but it also decomposes the cell itself. The titanium dioxide photocatalyst has been found to be more effective than any other antibacterial agent because the photocatalytic reaction works even when cells are covering the surface and while the bacteria are actively spreading.
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