Advanced PCO Technology: Removing VOCs and Pathogens

Indoor air quality has become a pressing concern in homes, offices, and public spaces alike. With increased awareness of the health risks associated with poor air quality, the need for innovative solutions to eliminate harmful contaminants has never been greater. One technology making a significant impact in this space is Photo catalytic Oxidation (PCO).

Products like triad aer having PCO technology not only fights volatile organic compounds (VOCs), but also neutralizes harmful pathogens. This cutting-edge solution is paving the way for cleaner, healthier indoor environments.

What is Photo catalytic Oxidation (PCO)?

Photo catalytic Oxidation (PCO) is an advanced air purification technology originally developed by NASA to purify air in spacecraft. It’s now widely used in a variety of indoor spaces, from hospitals and offices to residential homes, thanks to its ability to eliminate a broad range of contaminants effectively.

PCO works by using ultraviolet (UV) light and a photo catalyst, such as titanium dioxide, to initiate a chemical reaction. This reaction oxidizes harmful substances like VOCs, pathogens, and other airborne pollutants breaking them down into harmless byproducts like water vapor and carbon dioxide.

Specific areas where PCO stands out include its capability to neutralize even microscopic contaminants and its ability to provide on-demand, chemical-free air cleaning.

VOCs and Pathogens

To grasp how PCO addresses air quality challenges, it’s important to first understand the pollutants it targets.

VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds)

VOCs are chemicals released as gases from a variety of household items, including paints, cleaning supplies, air fresheners, adhesives, and even furniture. These compounds can compromise indoor air quality significantly.

Common VOCs include:

Formaldehyde (from household materials like furniture and flooring)

Benzene (from tobacco smoke and vehicle exhaust)

Toluene (in paints and adhesives)

Exposure to VOCs has been linked to health issues ranging from headaches and dizziness to long-term risks like liver, kidney, or central nervous system damage.

Pathogens

The term “pathogens” encompasses harmful microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and mold. Pathogens spread quickly in shared spaces and can cause a host of illnesses, from common colds to potentially life-threatening diseases.

Finding a solution that tackles both VOCs and pathogens is essential, and this is where PCO technology excels.

How Does PCO Technology Work?

To visualize the inner workings of PCO, imagine a microscopic process that eliminates harmful pollutants at their root.

UV Light Activation

PCO systems typically use a UV light source to activate the photocatalyst surface. The UV light excites the titanium dioxide molecules, setting the stage for the oxidation process.

Oxidation Reaction

When air pollutants like VOCs or pathogens come into contact with the activated photocatalyst surface, a powerful oxidation reaction occurs. This process breaks down the pollutants at a molecular level, neutralizing their harmful effects.

Byproduct Formation

The final stage of the reaction turns harmful substances into water vapor and carbon dioxide neutral byproducts that are harmless and readily absorbed into the environment.

The ability to operate in real-time and continuously clean contaminated air makes PCO a remarkably efficient and versatile air purification technology.

Why is PCO Technology Effective Against VOCs and Pathogens?

PCO is celebrated for its efficiency and effectiveness for multiple reasons, including its ability to combat a broad range of contaminants without releasing additional harmful chemicals into the air. Below, we explore how this innovation targets VOCs and pathogens specifically.

VOC Elimination

Traditional air purifiers may trap VOCs with filters, but PCO technology goes a step further by completely breaking them down. This ensures VOCs are permanently removed from the environment, rather than just temporarily captured.

Empirical studies have shown that PCO technologies can eliminate up to 99% of VOCs from the air, including stubborn compounds like formaldehyde and benzene. This is particularly beneficial for environments with heavy chemical use, such as laboratories or painting facilities.

Pathogen Neutralization

PCO isn’t just effective against chemical pollutants; it tackles biological threats like bacteria and viruses. By disrupting their molecular structure, PCO effectively sterilizes harmful pathogens, preventing them from reproducing or proliferating.

Applications of PCO in healthcare facilities highlight its strength in fighting airborne illnesses, such as the flu or more contagious diseases like COVID-19. The ability to neutralize pathogens without leaving residues behind sets PCO apart from more traditional sterilization methods.

Chemical-Free and Sustainable

Another advantage of PCO is its lack of harmful byproducts. Unlike chemical-based disinfectants, PCO doesn’t release harmful residues, making it a more sustainable and environmentally friendly option for air purification.

Where Can PCO Technology Be Used?

PCO technology is incredibly versatile and can be used in a wide variety of settings, including:

Homes

PCO effectively cleans indoor air without requiring excessive maintenance, making it perfect for residential spaces.

Healthcare Facilities

Hospitals use PCO technology to maintain sterile air quality in operating rooms and patient wards, reducing the spread of infections.

Offices

This technology ensures cleaner air in shared workspaces, promoting better health and productivity.

Hospitality Industry

Hotels and restaurants benefit from PCO by providing cleaner, fresher environments for guests.

Transportation

PCO systems are increasingly found in airplanes and buses, reducing the risk of airborne diseases for commuters.

Is PCO the Future of Clean Air?

The versatility and effectiveness of PCO technology make it a powerful contender in the ongoing pursuit of improved indoor air quality. From eliminating harmful chemicals to tackling the smallest pathogens, this technology has proven its worth across industries.

While PCO is not the only air purification technology available, its ability to provide comprehensive air cleaning with sustainable, chemical-free methods is undoubtedly paving the way for cleaner, healthier environments.

Take the First Step Towards Cleaner Air

If you’re serious about improving your indoor air quality, considering a PCO system is a smart move. Whether you’re interested in purer household air or want to safeguard an office or shared workspace, a PCO-enabled air purifier can deliver exceptional results.

Explore our lineup of advanced air purifiers with built-in PCO technology to take control of your indoor air today.