When we discuss the activity generated by tio2 as a photocatalyst we mention the generation of hydroxyl free radicals… But what are they, how do they work against pathogens and are they safe for humans?
The "detergent" of the troposphere"
These naturally occurring molecules are a vital line of defence in our atmosphere, reacting with many pollutants, and decomposing them, and often acting as the first step to their removal. It also has an important role in eliminating some greenhouse gases like methane and ozone as well as inactivating pathogenic viruses and bacteria and neutralising allergenic pollens and mould spores.
Creating indoor sunshine
Through the innovation of LED lighting with the ability to safely generate the full spectrum of light indoors, we are now able to generate this “detergent” into the built environment. This means that these naturally occurring molecules can now be generated in a room’s troposphere, the ceiling!
Like the air outside, as war air rises in a room this circular connection current brings carried potential airborne risks up into the range of the hydroxyl free radicals where, like the earth’s atmosphere, they are deactivated.
Are they safe?
Hydroxyl free radicals are 100% safe for humans, animals and plants.
This safety is ensured both in terms of the location of their activity and the way they interact with pathogens. These highly reactive molecules only last for 1 billionth of a second meaning they are unable to travel any distance from the panel. Therefore when suspended in from the ceiling the possible contact by humans is almost nil.
That said should a human come into contact with a generated hydroxyl free radical the will simply be absorbed by the sweat and oils on the human body. Rember for millions of years humans have been exposed to hydroxyl free radicals which occur naturally in the atmosphere.
They are nature’s detergent and being more reactive than many of the chemicals commonly used makes them significantly safer to use than something as common as bleach.
