* This article is for Japan and translated for reference.
For more information, please visit ozoniser machine manufacturer.
The number of consumers who wish to implement measures to protect themselves from novel coronavirus infection and change their living spaces into a safe environment that is easy to live in is increasing around the world. And now expectations are growing for "ionizers and ozonizers" embedded in air purifiers and air conditioners, etc. to improve the air with ion and ozone effects. To deliver consumer electronics that incorporate air modification features to consumers around the world, we need easy-to-handle devices that can generate concentrated ions and ozone according to use cases. We spoke with a manager who is involved with Murata product planning about the operating principles of ionizers and ozonizers and the strengths of Murata's modules as well as the evidence for PM2.5 removal.
Yokoyama, Manager of the Power Module Division, Module Business Unit--Please tell us about the differences between an ionizer and an ozonizer.
An ionizer ionizes air molecules to generate and emit ions (O2-, OH-, N2+, etc.). Some products also emit ozone (O3) together with the ions. On the other hand, an ozonizer efficiently generates and emits ozone from oxygen molecules (O2). It does not generate ions. They have generators with different structures and are offered as separate products.
--Under what principles do they respectively generate ions and ozone to achieve effects such as removing particles suspended in the air, sterilization, and deodorization?
In an ionizer, a high DC voltage is applied to a needle electrode to create a charge concentration and a corona discharge, which causes electrons to be exchanged between molecules by energizing the surrounding air molecules (Figure 4). Then the molecules that received the electrons become negative ions. At Murata, we are also able to generate ozone when applying a high voltage by adopting our own ion generation structure.
Figure 4 The principle of ion generation and the generator structure in an ionizerIons have an electric charge, and they attract and capture suspended particles with that Coulomb force to remove them from the air. Generally, this feature is used to clean dust, etc. in the air.
In an air purifier, etc. a method that uses a filter to remove particles is also used. However, by using it in combination with an ionizer, it can promote the capture of dust and particles to effectively remove dust, etc. with the filter.
--So under what principles does an ozonizer operate?
In an ozonizer, a high AC voltage is applied to a ceramic substrate that forms an electrode internally to create an electrical discharge on the surface of the substrate (Figure 5). When that happens, the oxygen molecules separate due to the electrical discharge energy and become oxygen atoms. These separated oxygen atoms combine with other oxygen molecules to create ozone.
Figure 5 Principle of ozone generation and the structure of the generator in an ozonizerOzone has oxidizability. We use this property to make it possible to sterilize, disinfect, and deodorize.
--How long and under what circumstances have ionizers and ozonizers been developed at Murata?
Murata started ionizer development from around based on the negative ion fad around . Negative ions attracted attention not only as what were referred to as "soothing negative ions" at the time but also as a method for removing PM2.5 and other particles that are detrimental to one's health, and negative ion generators started to be equipped in various consumer electronics.
High-voltage power source technologies and ceramic substrate technologies, etc. were required to create negative ion generators. Murata has assembled a set of technologies that are required in a negative ion generator through the development of high-voltage resistors, high-withstanding-voltage capacitors, and high-voltage transformers that were preceded by flyback transformers. In addition, we thought that we could develop higher-performance ion generators by applying Murata's core technology of ceramic firing and its many years of experience in lamination technology. This is how the company started the development of ionizers.
Then we succeeded in developing ionizers that achieve high reliability in a compact module. Later, we successfully developed an ozonizer product that generates only ozone by adding further improvements to the ion generator structure that uses a ceramic substrate.
--At roughly what scale is the company currently producing ionizers and ozonizers?
Currently, the number of inquiries aimed at novel coronavirus measures is increasing, and we are shipping 400,000 to 500,000 modules per month including both the Japanese and overseas markets. We think that the number will further increase if ionizers and ozonizers are equipped as standard features in air conditioners, etc. as lifestyles adjust to the new normal going forward.
--Many companies have undertaken the development of technologies aimed at sterilization and deodorization, etc. using ions and ozone, etc., which are equipped in consumer electronics. Please tell us about the advantages of Murata's technologies for ionizers and ozonizers.
The ability to generate both ions and ozone in one ionizer module is a unique feature of Murata's ionizers. This makes it possible to create an applied product that can be expected to have multiple effects such as sterilization and deodorization as well as air purification when incorporated into an air purifier or air conditioner.
Moreover, Murata's generator is able to generate ions and ozone at a low voltage. By achieving a low voltage, it has a low failure rate, keeps foreign substances from adhering to the generator, and suppresses corrosion of the discharge needle to provide a long service life.
--From the point of view of the user, if they operate an air purifier or other device, they would like to experience an immediate effect, so that is a welcome feature.
However, because ozone is a gas that may affect the human body, it is dangerous to unnecessarily generate a high concentration in a device, etc. that is used all the time. With Murata's products, it is possible to generate a high concentration of ozone in a scenario where people are not involved and suppress the generation of ozone in other situations. We have also prepared ionizer models that suppress the ozone generation rate as much as possible.
Because regulations are applied to the ozone generation amount depending on the country or region of use, such ozone concentration control is important to create applied equipment that conforms with the laws and ordinances of the destination.
--So it is not the case that a high concentration should be created unnecessarily.
In addition, because we adopt a structure that separates the generator and high-voltage power supply, the high degree of mechanical design freedom when embedded in applied equipment can be said to be an advantage. The mounting position may be restricted, because it generates a high voltage. However, the use of an isolation structure increases the degree of freedom when equipped. Moreover, the generated ions and ozone must be radiated or dispersed onto the object using a fan, etc. However, when the generator and high-voltage power supply are placed in the same location, they may interfere with the airflow. With Murata's modules, it is easy to place them in separate locations to create an ideal environment.
--The fact that they are highly reliable and easy to embed in applied equipment would seem to be a significant advantage in extending applied equipment going forward.
Murata's ionizer and ozonizer modules are offered in a form that reconciles the generator and high-voltage power supply specifications to achieve the best performance. There are many user companies that procure each component from different companies to configure the applied equipment. However, if the power supply voltage is too high, the ozone generation may become too high and damage the generator, and if it is too low, the ions and ozone may not be emitted. By designing both together, we tailor and offer effective and high-reliability products.
--Please introduce the lineup of ionizers and ozonizers that the company currently offers.
We have prepared four types of ionizers for cases in which an air purification feature based on the constant use of negative ions is required such as in air purifiers and air conditioners. Within those products, we have assembled a type of ionizer that generates ozone and a type that conversely suppresses it is much as possible to allow for the user to make a selection according to the required feature. The ionizers include types that input a DC power supply and types that input an AC power supply. Thus far, we released AC input products that support AC220 to 240V, but in the spring of we also plan to release a product with an AC100 to 120V input. In addition, we also have products with different output line lengths to connect the generator and high-voltage power supply in consideration of customer ease of use.
In addition to these four types, we have also prepared models that generate positive ions and models that can effectively remove electricity by embedding them in dryers, etc.
Meanwhile, we have prepared an ozonizer for cases that require sterilizing and deodorizing features only. Currently, we have prepared four types of ozonizers that generate different amounts of ozone. With an on/off feature through an external signal, user companies can set an ozone concentration suitable for the device. In addition, we also have products that are equipped with a heater that can be used even in high-humidity environments. These products are expected to be used in high-humidity environments such as dishwashers and washing machines, etc. Going forward, we plan to release products that can generate a higher amount of ozone.
--So you have considered the use cases and assembled products with the necessary specifications.
We plan to think about the use cases in greater detail while expanding the lineup in the future. When considering global expansion, some have expressed the opinion that AC input modules are easy to handle for Europe and Asia. In the case of previously adopted digital equipment, there was a DC input inside the equipment, so we used that voltage and had customers adopt DC input-type products. However, it is thought that an AC input is needed in order to have "new normal" sterilization features become standard equipped features in every device.
--Please introduce evidence for the effects that can be obtained in the expected applications.
This is an introduction to the results of an in-house evaluation by Murata of the airborne PM2.5 cleaning effect using negative ions generated with an ionizer (Figure 6). A particle size of 2.5 mm or less is called "PM2.5." However, of the particles that were floating in the test space, approximately 85% had a particle size between 0.3 mm and 0.5 mm, approximately 10% were between 0.5 mm and 0.7 mm, and approximately 5% had a size of 0.7 mm or more.
Of these particles, the particles with a size between 0.3 mm and 0.5 mm will continue to float in the air if they are left as is. We verified that running an ionizer promotes the capture of such particles and that particles with the same size had been reduced by more than 40% after 60 minutes.
Figure 6 PM2.5 removal effect with Murata's ionizer--PM2.5 is a type of air pollution that has become a problem in China, South Korea, and all of eastern Asia. Looking at these results, an ionizer is essential to maintain one's health.
In addition, ionizers and ozonizers have sterilizing and disinfecting effects.
It was thought that the spread of the novel coronavirus would settle down worldwide, but it has continued on a larger scale through second and third waves. It is believed that continuing to carry out some sort of measures will become essential. I hope that Murata's ionizers and ozonizers can make even a small social contribution in the new normal lifestyle.
Due to the coronavirus pandemic, people around the world have been forced to live with an awareness that unseen threats are definitely present in their surroundings. However, we are living not only with the coronavirus but also with many unseen threats such as PM2.5, bacteria, and allergens, etc. If we can be clearly aware of those threats similar to the coronavirus and implement measures without fail, we can lead safer, healthier, and higher-quality lives.
Murata says that it will continue to develop and offer ionizers and ozonizers with more effective characteristics going forward to meet the needs of global consumers who have become conscious of living space hygiene and purification. However, because these are tools for supporting measures to combat unseen threats, those effects tend to be difficult to experience. Accordingly, Murata is carrying out tests anticipating various use cases together with universities and evaluation organizations in order to clearly demonstrate the efficacy of ionizers and ozonizers and will continue its efforts to obtain evidence. This article introduced evidence for the efficacy with respect to PM2.5. In addition, we also have test results for various types of efficacy such as deodorizing and mold prevention, etc.
If you want to learn more, please visit our website Ozone Treatment for Cars: Frequently Asked Questions.
Features that remove unseen threats are becoming essential features that should naturally be equipped in air conditioners and other consumer electronics due to increased consumer awareness of health management and hygiene control. It appears that Murata's ionizers and ozonizers are becoming essential for secretly supporting our health.
FREE SHIPPING!! Order Online with Code FreeShipping
Newaire HO3- Hydroxyl and Ozone Generator Air and SurfaceTreatment System
The best of two deodorizing technologies, now in one unit. Amazingly compact and lightweight, the Newaire HO3- Hydroxyl and Ozone Air and Surface Treatment System features state-of-the-art Photo Catalytic Hydroxyl Technology designed to treat the air inside the unit to help eliminate odors and destroy a wide range of bacteria in areas up to sq/ft while the area is occupied. The separate Ozone option allows for deeper cleaning of the air and surfaces in unoccupied areas.
The Newaire HO3- Hydroxyl and Ozone Generator Air and SurfaceTreatment System is designed to help kill bacteria and viruses while permanently eliminating odors. The main benefit of using a true hydroxyl generator is that they are safe to use in occupied areas for deodorization purposes. Hydroxyl technology is perfect for removing odors while killing viruses and bacteria in occupied spaces such as:
Hotels | Funeral Homes | Apartments | Offices | Schools | Hospitals | Nursing Homes | Buses & Shuttles | Vehicles | Boats | Fitness Centers | Day Care Centers | Warehouses
This unique product offers the enhanced option of a built in Ozone Generator to allow for deeper cleaning when the space is unoccupied.
Size
8.2" W x 10" D x 17" L
Weight
8.5 LBS
Room Capacity
Sq Ft
Volts/Amps
110 v/1.1 amps
Fan Output
212 CFM
Hydroxyl Timer Control
Solid State 24 Hours, Continuous Output
Ozone TimerFiltration
Pre & Post Filter Carbon
Treatment Process
Carbon Filter & Twin Hydroxyl
UVC 254 NM Germicidle Chambers
UV Lamp Type
UVC 254 NM Germicidle
Chamber Life Expectancy25,000 + Hours
Hydroxyl
Warranty
2 Years
What Is A Hydroxyl Radical? The hydroxyl radical, 'OH, is the neutral form of the hydroxide ion (OH'). Hydroxyl radicals are diatomic molecules that are highly reactive and very short-lived with an average half-life of less than two seconds. The hydroxyl radical which was first discovered by scientists in is often referred to as the 'detergent' of the troposphere, or the lowest part of the atmosphere, because it reacts with many pollutants and helps destroy them. It also has an important role in eliminating some greenhouse gases like methane and ozone.
Atmospheric hydroxyl radicals should not be confused with free radicals that are produced in
side living organisms. Atmospheric hydroxyl radicals are so reactive that they are instantly neutralized when they make contact with any substance and would be impossible to ingest as a complete ion. This is the fact that makes hydroxyl radicals, which are in the outside air at all times during the day, one of the safest processes for deodorizing in an occupied area. Hydroxyls are formed in nature by the reaction of UV light from the sun disassembling water vapor (H20) to get a hydrogen atom and oxygen (O2) which are combined together to form the hydroxyl radical (*OH).
Technology Behind Radicals. All hydroxyl generators currently used in the restoration industry incorporate some form of UV light in their process. UV light has three major spectrums: A, B and C. UVA is in the 315nm to 400nm wavelength and is what is commonly referred to as a 'black light,' which makes white things glow and is considered safe for vision and skin contact. UVA lamps do not produce ozone. UVB is in the 280nm to 315nm wavelength. These are the lights in tanning salons. UVC is the 100nm to 280nm wavelength. These lamps are 'germicidal' and can damage your eyes and skin. UVC lamps in the 185nm spectrum produce large amounts of ozone.
Some manufacturers use UVC lamps in the 185nm to 254nm wavelength with no catalyst whatsoever and claim to make hydroxyls. These units are nothing more that ultraviolet ozone generators and should be avoided. Other manufacturers use the same UVC 185nm to 254nm wavelength UV lamps but also incorporate reactive metals like titanium as a catalyst to create hydroxyls. These machines would probably make more hydroxyls then the first process described above but they also produce ozone and should be considered for use in unoccupied areas only. The third technology which was developed with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) utilizes UVC light in the 254nm wavelength to excite nano-sized particles of Titanium Dioxide to generate hydroxyl radicals.
This process has been deemed safe by NASA (it has been used in the space station) and also certified by the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) as a Type 2 Medical Device that is approved for use in hospitals, including neonatal and baby wards.
Recommended Maintenance Kits:
HG25FILKIT (Replacement Filters) and HG25LIGKIT (Replacement UV Light Kit)
Any device that pulls air through it requires cleaning and or preventative maintenance. Consider heating and air conditioning systems,automobile air filters, room air cleaners, etc. Newaire Hydroxyl Generators also require occasional maintenance to keep them operating at peak performance.
Contact us to discuss your requirements of ozone equipment exporter. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.