A question we receive from time to time here at Sylvane is about HEPA filtration and radiation. Whether it's after a natural disaster like the 2011 Japanese earthquake, tsunami, and subsequent Fukushima nuclear accident, or just general inquiries about whether air purifiers can filter radioactive particles, it's something that's on the mind of a lot of people. The relationship between HEPA air filtration and radiation is a unique one that's even comprised of a lot of wartime secrecy. Keep reading to learn more about why HEPA filtration was developed and the top three HEPA air purifiers that are available right now.
The Relationship Between Air Filtration and Radiation
Air filtration and radiation mitigation have a long history. In fact, High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters, which are some of the most effective and popular air filters on the market today, were developed out of the need for effective filtration of radioactive particulates.
During World War II, scientists from the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom were commissioned to work on the Manhattan Project, which would ultimately lead to the development of the first atomic bomb. While this work was taking place, the need to protect scientists from exposure to radioactive fallout became apparent. Since radioactive fallout is particulate in nature, the U.S. Atomic Energy Commission recognized that it could be filtered using mechanical filtration and developed HEPA filtration to protect scientists from exposure to radioactive particles.
Following World War II, HEPA filter technology was declassified and began being used in commercial and residential products. HEPA filters are rated to remove 99.97% to 99.99% of airborne particles that measure 0.3 microns and larger, such as pollen, pet dander, dust mites, and mold spores.
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Top HEPA Air Purifiers
Today, HEPA filters are commonly found in high-performance air purifiers. Whether you're looking for a HEPA air purifier for your home or a medical-grade air purifier for a lab, office, or other commercial facilities, the filtration that was once a national secret is now widely available. Take a look at three of our top HEPA air purifiers.
Enviroklenz UV-C Air Purifier
Made in the USA, this air purifier features a medical-grade HEPA filter, Earth mineral pre-filter, and UV-C light. With its powerful performance, it's the perfect choice for rooms as large as 1,000 square feet.
Where to Use It
Ideal for sensitive areas, it's great for places where people congregated like libraries, schools, hospitals, and office buildings.
What Customers Are Saying
"We use or Enviroklenz UV-C Air purifier in our 900 square foot basement space along with ventilation to allow our band, made up of senior citizens, to practice safely during the COVID pandemic. This has made us all very happy even though we still are masked, face shielded, and properly distanced. It was the air purifier has given us the confidence to practice inside in Maine." - Charles from Maine
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Austin Air HealthMate Plus HEPA Air Purifiers
The Austin Air Healthmate Plus and Healthmate Plus Jr. HEPA Air Purifiers give you reliable protection against a variety of airborne contaminants, from common household allergens to smoke and chemical odors. Its absorbent activated carbon filter bed combats heavier chemical odors, including formaldehyde.
Where to Use It
Designed for spaces as large as 750 square feet, this air purifier has been used in dentist offices, medical facilities, and even by people who have been exposed to smoke from disasters such as wildfires.
What Customers Are Saying
"I live in Oregon and suffer from severe asthma. Recently our beautiful state was ravished with tragic forest fires. My town was engulfed with hazardous smoke for many weeks...I couldn't breathe. When my Austin air purifier arrived, I was so grateful to finally have clean air...Awesome Air to help me breathe..thank you for such an amazing product. You are truly a lifesaver".
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Still Have Questions?
Whether you're in the market for an air purifier for your home or your office, we're here to help. If you have any questions regarding your air purifier options, give us a call at 1-800-934-9194. We're here to help you find the perfect indoor air quality product for you. Don't forget to leave us a message in the comment section below and to connect with us on Facebook and Twitter.
