As we cope with the ongoing challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, a new study led by Professor Siddappa Byrareddy, a Nebraska University Medical Center in collaboration with Molekule, reveals a major breakthrough in air purification technology. The study, published in Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety, demonstrates the effectiveness of the Molekule air purifier equipped with photoelectrochemical oxidation (PECO) technology, to capture and destroy SARS-COV-2 viruses.
The research team conducted comprehensive laboratory testing and real-world assessments in a multifaceted way. They used a dedicated testing room to evaluate the performance of the Molekule Air Mini+ purifier when capturing and neutralizing viruses. “The PECO technology in Molekule air purifiers accounts for 99.98% of SARS-COV-2 in less than two minutes,” Professor Byrareddy stressed.
The team used quantitative real-time PCR (RT-QPCR) and immunofluorescence assay (IFA) to quantify the presence of the virus and evaluate the effectiveness of the purifier. These methods allow precise measurement of viruses in the air before and after the use of a purifier. In addition, this study ventured into the real world environment (COVID-19 testing facility), and the Molekule Air Pro purifier greatly reduced the in-air SARS-COV-2, such as the RT-RT-QPCR result after confirmation.
“Our real-life findings are consistent with our laboratory results, emphasizing the effectiveness of Molekule air purifiers in reducing potential virus exposure,” said Professor Byrareddy. The study also explores the viral activity mechanics of PECO filter media. By analyzing coated and uncoated filtration media, researchers can understand how PECO technology actively neutralizes the virus.
PECO technology is a game changer that changes air purification, leveraging a unique process to capture and destroy microorganisms on the surface of the filter. This method produces reactive oxygen species, effectively oxidizing and inactivates pathogens (such as SARS-COV-2).
All in all, this study provides compelling evidence of the effectiveness of peco-assisted molekule air purifiers in combating airborne viruses such as SARS-COV-2. “This study opens the door to the wider adoption of advanced air purification technologies in public spaces and provides a strong defense for air diseases,” concluded Professor Byraddi.
Journal Reference
Acharya A, Surbaugh K, Thurman M, Wickramaratne C, Myers P, Mittal R, Pandey K, Klug E, Stein SJ, Ravnholdt AR, Herrera VL, Rivera DN, Rivera DN, Williams P, Williams P, Santarpia JL, Santarpia JL ,Kaushik A,Kaushik A,dhau JS,dhau js,dhau js,dhau js,dhau js,dhau js,dhau js,dhau js,dhau js,dhau js,dhau js,dhau js,dhau js,dhau js,dhau js,dhau js,dhau js,dhau js,dhau js,dhau js,dhau js, byrareddy sn. Effective capture and destruction of SARS-COV-2 using PECO-assisted Molekule air purifiers in the laboratory and in the real world. Ecotoxin Environ Saf. October 1, 2023; 264:115487. doi:10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115487. EPUB September 18, 2023. PMID: 37729804.
