University researchers in Hong Kong develop air purifier that promises to kill, not just trap, deadly bacteria
It was found to effectively eliminate 98.8 per cent of the Middle East respiratory syndrome virus
An air purification system that claims to remove up to 99.99 per cent of airborne bacteria and viruses has been developed by researchers at Hong Kong’s University of Science and Technology.
Different from other filters, which only trap bacteria, the technology not only kills but also prevents growth of microorganisms, according to the research team.
“Our technology doesn’t kill bacteria only, but also pathogens and mould,” said Professor Yeung King-lun, leader of the research team and associate dean of research and graduate studies at the university’s engineering school.
“They are killed when they contact the filter, which could also reduce formation of biofilms.”
The Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Disease found the system eliminated 98.8 per cent of the Middle East respiratory syndrome virus, and more than 99 per cent of H1N1 and H3N2 influenza, and Enterovirus 71– a cause of hand, foot and mouth disease.
