Retroscreen tests Sharp’s new air purifiers against airborne viruses
Retroscreen Virology Ltd has completed tests on the anti-viral properties of new air purifiers developed by The Sharp Corporation.
In principal, Sharp’s PCI technology works by splitting water molecules into charged atoms (ions) of hydrogen and oxygen. These ions are drawn to airborne particles such as viruses and upon contact, form hydroxyl. Hydroxyl is very unstable and can permanently destroy the virus by robbing it of its hydrogen atoms.
Retroscreen Virology, a specialist in anti-viral research, was asked to test how effective Sharp’s PCI technology actually was at removing airborne virus particles such as influenza. Viruses were suspended in a 1m3 box and the rate of virus removal from the air was measured. In this controlled environment, Retroscreen found that in just 10 minutes, 99% of airborne viruses were inactivated when compared to controls.
Dr Robert Lambkin-Williams, md of Retroscreen Virology, said: “We were delighted to test Sharp’s technology and are very pleased with the results. This type of technology could be very effective in reducing the risk of infection, particularly as we approach the flu season. Retroscreen has also been involved with testing nanomaterials for their anti-viral properties, and together, this highlights how new technologies developed by physicists as well as biologists, can be extremely effective at preventing the spread of infectious diseases.”