Introduction to Air Purification and Disinfection
Air purification and disinfection systems in medical institutions can be divided into two main methods: active disinfection and passive disinfection. Active disinfection involves proactively sanitizing the environment outside the device. On the other hand, passive disinfection works by drawing in contaminated air, filtering, and disinfecting it inside the device before releasing purified air.
Active Disinfection vs. Passive Disinfection
Active Disinfection
Active air disinfection uses equipment that generates stable and easily diffused disinfecting agents. These agents are spread throughout the room by a fan, reaching every corner to eliminate viruses, bacteria, and other microorganisms on surfaces and in the air. Common active disinfection methods include ozone disinfection and hydrogen peroxide disinfection.
Passive Disinfection
Passive disinfection involves drawing air into the device, where it undergoes filtration and disinfection before clean air is released back into the environment. Common components in these devices include HEPA filters, UVC lights, and photocatalysts. Each element targets different contaminants: HEPA filters trap PM2.5, activated carbon eliminates odors, and photocatalysts break down formaldehyde and other VOCs.
Advantages of Active and Passive Disinfection
Advantages of Active Disinfection
Proactively disinfects the entire space, ensuring high sterilization efficiency and completing the process quickly.
Excellent diffusion capabilities eliminate disinfectant dead zones, treating both air and surfaces.
Does not require large fans, avoiding accelerated indoor air circulation and potential virus spread.
Disinfection time and agent concentration are easily controlled, significantly reducing corrosion risks.
Advantages of Passive Disinfection
Safe and environmentally friendly for long-term use in specific environments with no secondary pollution.
Suitable for coexistence with people, as it purifies air drawn into the device.
Long-lasting disinfectant agents can be used continuously, offering high utilization and low energy consumption.
Conclusion
Active disinfection technology works by killing viruses as they begin to spread, rather than waiting for them to enter the disinfection device. This approach envelops aerosols, cutting off virus transmission pathways. Conversely, passive disinfection is useful in environments with high bacteria and virus levels, where it filters, absorbs, and disinfects the air. In practical applications, combining both methods offers the best results, with active disinfection proactively targeting contaminants and passive disinfection continuously purifying the air, ensuring a safer and cleaner environment.
By understanding and choosing the right disinfection method, medical institutions can significantly improve air quality, reduce infection risks, and ensure the health and safety of both patients and staff
