Evaluating low-cost, energy saving technologies that improve indoor air quality in support of occupant health and safety
Removing pathogens from the air isn’t just a health and biosecurity issue, it’s also an energy and affordability challenge.
(Image by Shannon Colson | PNNL)
Air that is clean of airborne pathogens is essential for the health and productivity of building occupants. Airborne viruses, bacteria, and fungi can trigger allergies, respiratory illnesses, and long-term health issues. These health impacts are a significant driver of absenteeism in workplaces and schools. Employers lose over $2,000 per employee each year, while students experience reduced learning outcomes.
Beyond immediate health impacts, having the ability to clean pathogens from the air is critical for biosecurity and biological threat preparedness. Developing technologies and infrastructure to remove harmful pathogens from the air strengthens resilience and protects public health.
Providing pathogen-free air isn’t just a health and biosecurity issue, it’s an energy and affordability challenge. Traditional approaches relying solely on building ventilation solutions can be costly and energy intensive. Emerging air cleaning technologies, such as germicidal ultraviolet (GUV) systems and room/portable air cleaners (R/PACs), offer the potential to deliver clean, healthy air at a fraction of the energy use and cost.
Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) researchers are advancing innovative air cleaning technologies to address these challenges. Through the application of AI with cutting-edge simulations, field studies, and laboratory testing, PNNL researchers assess and validate solutions that are effective, energy efficient, and affordable. These efforts help create healthier indoor spaces, decrease sick days, lower energy costs, and build long-term protection against health and biosecurity risks.