Sterilization potential of Gas-Water Mixed Ion (GWMI) technology and its device for microorganisms in the built environment

Abstract

As human societies progress, novel infectious diseases and extensive health challenges continuously emerge. There is a growing demand for low-cost, safe, and broad-spectrum microbial sterilization technologies within architectural environments. This study introduces a Gas-Water Mixed Ion (GWMI) technology combining negative ions and electrostatic atomization. Due to the strong oxidizing properties of the hydroxyl radicals (·OHs) produced, it demonstrates excellent bactericidal effects and has been widely applied in water treatment. However, its potential for air sterilization has not been fully explored. Using Escherichia coli (E. coli) as a target strain, this study investigates the sterilization potential of this technology in various spatial settings and evaluates its energy consumption from an economic perspective. The results indicate that the device, designed based on the GWMI technology, achieves more than 70 % bactericidal efficiency at the maximum distance in spaces of 100 L and 200 L. In a 30 m³ experimental chamber, the natural diffusion of the microbial ions extends approximately 36 cm, with localized air supply enhancing the spread of these ions up to 90 cm, where the sterilization rate still reaches 33.33 % and over 50 % within the 70 cm range. Compared to other microbial purification methods, this technology consumes less energy. The GWMI technology efficiently eliminates environmental microbes, provides valuable data for future implementation in building environments, and offers a novel approach to fostering low-carbon, healthy architectural settings.