Enhancement of filter capture efficiency through the application of electrostatic fields is well established. Microbe destruction occurs through attack by atomic oxygen and oxygen radicals created by the plasma. Thin electrodes, attached to both sides of a filter, yield enhanced capture efficiency when a DC voltage is applied across these electrodes. Furthermore, periodic radio frequency alternating current energization of the electrodes generates a plasma on the filter surface that kills captured organisms. This project demonstrates these effects by constructing and operating such a filter.
Infectious disease takes a tremendous toll on people and on the U.S. economy.
The causes of many of these diseases are airborne pathogens. For example, in 1994 there were more than 90 million cases of influenza nationwide resulting in 170 million bed days. It is anticipated that the filter will represent a solution for the problem of indoor air pathogens for both public and private buildings.