What Is Bipolar Ionization?
Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) has been gaining traction for sometime, but especially since the COVID-19 pandemic began. To improve IAQ and help prevent the spread of COVID-19, many air cleaning technologies have been promoted. Bipolar ionization is one of those air purification technologies. Despite the recent attention, bipolar ionization is not a new technology- being popular in Europe since the 1970s.
How Does Bipolar Ionization Work?
Bipolar ionization involves a device that splits molecules in the air into positive and negative charged ions. These ions then cluster around airborne particles like mold, viruses, bacteria, and even allergens like pollen. The ions not only help to make these particles bigger, causing them to be easier caught by the air filter, but they also physically affect viruses and other pathogens. In the case of viruses, it affects the molecular structure of the protein coat that is a key part of the infection process. With the proteins altered, they cannot infect our cells, and thus cannot make us ill. Other pathogens like bacteria, are destroyed because the ions work by pulling essential hydrogen away, causing the rupturing of the bacterium (see image below).
Positive and negative ions produced from the device are shown clustering around a pathogen and causing it to rupture.
Example of a bipolar ionization device.
What are Some Important Considerations When Choosing Bipolar Ionization?
Despite their popularity, not all bipolar ionization devices are equal in terms of effectiveness or safety, and there are several considerations to keep in mind when deciding whether or not to implement them in your IAQ plan. The first consideration is location, location, location. Ions produced from the device only last about 60 seconds. This can create a challenge in getting appropriate ion counts into the occupied spaces where they matter the most. When devices are mounted in the ductwork, this makes it extra difficult. Portable air purifiers is a way to work around the short lifespan of the ions, making sure they are distributed immediately into the space desired for protection.
Another consideration is the importance of being ozone-free. Some bipolar ionization devices do emit ozone at a level that can be dangerous. To fully avoid ozone, the EPA recommends using a bipolar ionization device that meets UL 2998 standard certification (Environmental Claim Validation Procedure (ECVP) for Zero Ozone Emissions from Air Cleaners).
A third consideration is making sure to choose the right device, location, and distribution method appropriate for your space. Whether it be a gym, cafeteria, office, or bedroom, you will want to make sure that you achieve the proper ion count to provide the best protection. Contact our team of experts to help you identify what you would need for your space.
A final consideration is cleaning and maintenance. Some bipolar ionization devices are in the form of tubes, which require annual replacement and quickly drive up costs. Needlepoint bipolar ionization, on the other hand, is virtually maintenance-free due to its self-cleaning feature that occurs every 3-5 days.
Why You Should Choose an Air Purifier that Includes Ozone-free Bipolar Ionization
Our diverse line of air purifiers come equipped with a 99.99% effective HEPA filter and optional ozone-free bipolar ionization and/or UVC sterilization.
Finding the right air technology solution can be a challenge, but at ISO-Aire, we can provide what you need. We offer a line of elite commercial-grade HEPA air purifiers that can come with ozone-free bipolar ionization and/or UVC sterilization. Our air purifiers are portable and low-maintenance. With their portability, the challenges that come with in-duct bipolar ionization devices is eliminated, since ions are pumped out into the room where improved IAQ is desired. This allows you to get the ion count necessary for maximum protection. Furthermore, all of our units are UL 2998 certified, giving you peace of mind that no ozone will be produced. Lastly, our machines use a proper air-throw design, utilizing a powerful fan that is able to distribute the ions throughout the room. Lastly, our models use needlepoint bipolar ionization devices, eliminating the maintenance and costs that come with ionization tubes. Combined with our long-life HEPA filter that has an expected lifespan of 5-6 years, our air purifiers that come equipped with bipolar ionization as an additional level of clean air technology is hard to beat in terms of protection.