The Biochar Blog

Archive for the ‘Air Pollution’ Category

Air contamination control has become increasingly significant in our day-to-day lives. Polluted air is a major cause of concern for families whose members have different allergies and asthma. Hence, we should be very concerned about the quality of air that we breathe. It is difficult to eliminate all the air pollutants but air purifiers can clean the air to some extent. This can be achieved by using the best air purifiers in our offices and in our homes.

Surround Air Purifiers

Surround Air Purifiers manufactured by Indoor Purification Systems Inc, are based on ionic air purifying technology. The Indoor Purification Systems Inc has been in business since 1988 and is one of the pioneers in the field of air purification.

How Surround Air Purifiers Work

Most pollutants found in the air are positively charged. Surround air purifiers use ionic technology to produce negative ions. These negatively charged ions magnetically attract the positively charged ions that are present in air as pollutants. The positively charged ions are too heavy to remain in air, and stick in to the charged plate, leaving the air free from pollutants.

Surround Air Purifiers: Air Purification in 6 Steps

Surround Air Purifiers are available in different sizes and shapes. The Surround air purifiers use six technologies in a single unit. High Efficiency Particulate Air filters are fitted to remove dust and allergens. The ultraviolet lamp kills all the microbial organisms. An activated carbon filter prevents the spread of chemicals and smoke and a programmable sanitizer checks the spread of bad odor. This sanitizer can be kept at “on” or “off” position as desired. There is also an anti-bacterial pre-filter that takes care of larger particles. The amount of ions produced by the ionizer is equal enough to neutralize the particles that float in the air.

Surround air purifiers are highly efficient. A vehicle air purifier variety of Surround air purifier clears the air inside a car. HEPA air purifier and Multi-Tech Ionic are at the most popular models of this air purifier series. Use surround air purifiers to breathe refreshing, invigorating air at home.

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Kitchen cabinets, furniture, perfume, even candles and air fresheners – they can all contribute to the air pollution in our homes.

Dr. Bernard Hamel, former Director for the Institute for Environmental Studies at Drexil University, estimates that the levels of potentially deadly toxins in the average American home may be five times greater than the level of toxic pollutants found in the dirtiest city air.

Indoor air pollution poses a far greater risk to our health than outdoor pollution. Exposure to tobacco smoke, structural materials, mold, and even simple household dust can make us sick.

Biological contaminants such as mold and mildew allow disease-carrying pollutants to reproduce and spread their spores throughout the air. Toxic chemicals found in air fresheners, as well as average cleaning and grooming supplies can also be hazardous when build-up occurs in poorly ventilated rooms. Even the glue that holds 90% of today’s furniture together contains formaldehyde, which may cause nausea, headaches, lethargy and breathing problems in some people.

Another concern is lead paint, asbestos and radon, which were used in most homes, built before the 1980′s. Odorless, colorless and tasteless, these are all substances that are impossible to detect without proper testing.

When trying to safeguard your home against indoor pollution, follow these simple tips:

-Use pump bottles for cleaning supplies instead of spray cans. They spray less fumes and are easier to direct.

-Add more ventilation, or simply open your doors and windows more often to help air out the indoor pollution.

-Hire environmental testers to check for things like radon, lead and asbestos.

-Use “green” cleaning products. They’re cheaper and easy to make. Try these recipes for some common household cleaning jobs:

All Purpose Cleaner:

-1 qt. warm water

-1 tsp. liquid hand soap

-1/4 tsp. lemon juice

Works well on floors, countertops, rugs and upholstery

Oven Cleaner:

Cover grime with baking soda. Spray with water until wet, keeping dry for 3-4 hours. Let sit overnight. In the morning wipe clean with clear water.

Furniture Polish:

-1 pt. mineral oil

-1 tsp. lemon juice

Caustic household cleaners and chemicals ma be the #1 source of acute human exposure to toxic substances, according to research done by the American Association of Poison Control Centers. They make us sick and they damage the environment. When you have to use a caustic substance around your home, remember two important tips:

-Know how to use them properly: Always use caustic chemicals and cleaners in a well-ventilated area. Use an air mask if possible.

-Know how to dispose of them properly: Improper disposal of household cleaners, paints and other chemicals is the main source of toxic pollution in the United States today.

Follow these tips when getting rid of your household chemicals:

-Never pour any hazard household substance down the drain.

-Keep original containers for ingredient lists and storage.

-Take lids off paint and let dry prior to disposing.

-Take all chemical containers to your local hazardous waste site for disposal.

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Air is a mixture of several gases, mostly nitrogen and oxygen. The air has no color, no smell, and no taste. Pure air has vital role in all living beings; we cannot live without it. Unfortunately, the air we breathe is not always pure. The air is polluted by solid particles: dust, sand, soot, etc. Air pollution is not a game; it causes respiratory diseases and death. The indoor air pollution is a real public health issue. It is responsible for large numbers of diseases in United States. To optimize indoor air we breathe in our house or office, it is important to add an air purification system.

Below are some of the pollutants that can cause diseases and death:

Heavy metals – Heavy metals include a family of compounds quite extensive; the most common is the lead, most located in the particle, with the exception of mercury (gas). The main metals suspected are Arsenic (As), Cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), Nickel (Ni), Lead (Pb) and zinc (Zn). They come from burning coal, oil, garbage and some industrial processes (Non Ferrous Metals in particular). The metals accumulate in the body and cause toxic effects. They can affect the nervous system, kidney function, liver, respiratory, etc.. The potential toxic and carcinogenic, however, varies considerably from one compound to another.

Sulphur dioxide (SO2) – Sulphur dioxide (SO2) comes mainly from combustion of fossil fuels, volcanic eruptions, biomass burning. Coal burning is the single largest man-made source of sulphur dioxide, accounting for about 50% of annual global emissions, with oil burning accounting for a further 25 to 30%. It is an irritant gas, colorless and soluble in water. Health effects caused by exposure to high levels of SO2 include breathing problems, respiratory illness, changes in the lung’s defences, and worsening respiratory and cardiovascular disease.

Nitrogen oxides (NOX) – These compounds are formed by oxidation of nitrogen (N 2) during combustion (mainly at high temperature) of fuel at high temperatures. Nitrogen oxides, with volatile organic compounds, are involved in the formation of the photo-oxidising pollution and ozone in the lower atmosphere. It penetrates the respiratory system and may, from 200 ? g.m – 3, lead to impaired lung function and bronchial hyper-reactivity in asthmatics. In children, it increases the sensitivity of the bronchial microbial infections.

Carbon monoxide (CO) – Traffic represents the main source of carbon monoxide. It comes from Unvented kerosene, gas water heaters, wood stoves, and fireplaces; gas stoves; generators and other gasoline powered equipment; automobile exhaust from attached garages; and tobacco smoke. Incomplete oxidation during combustion in gas ranges and unvented gas or kerosene heaters may cause high concentrations of CO in indoor air. Because it is impossible to see, taste or smell the toxic fumes, CO can kill you before you are aware it is in your home. At lower levels of exposure, CO causes mild effects that are often mistaken for the flu. These symptoms include headaches, dizziness, disorientation, nausea and fatigue

Dust - airborne dust from certain industrial processes (cremations, quarries, cement), domestic heating in winter but mostly in car traffic near roads. The finer (<5 ? m) penetrates the alveoli and may, especially in children, irritate the respiratory tract or impair lung function.
Ozone (O3) – Ozone is a colorless gas and a powerful oxidant penetrating easily to alveoli. It causes, from prolonged exposure of 150 to 200 ? g.m – 3, eye irritations, headaches, coughing and impaired lung especially among children and asthmatics. Physical exercise may worsen the effects.

What can you do?

- ventilate all parts of the house and do so regularly,
- Use decorative products to be low emission of pollutants
- Do not smoke inside your home especially when there are children
- Pay attention to maintenance products that you use and respect the doses
– And the most important, Use air cleaners. Our Air cleaners deliver a complete filtration solution, removing a wide variety of particles, sub-micron particles, chemicals, gases, micro-organisms and odors. This includes such things as dust, mold, pollen, tobacco smoke, chemical vapors, gases, viruses and bacteria. To learn more about our air cleaners, Visit home air cleaner website.

Most people have become concerned about the increase in air pollution. We often associate air pollution with the outdoors, but indoor air pollution has become a growing health concern. The air quality in our homes and offices can have an affect on our health. Polluted indoor air can cause a host of problems such as breathing difficulties, allergies, and sinus problems. One method of reducing air pollution is to clean the air ducts.

Health Risks and Dirty Air Ducts

Air ducts can be found in such places as homes, schools, office buildings, hotels, retail establishments, apartment buildings,etc. Contaminated air ducts are often a major a major source of indoor air pollution. Air ducts can provide the perfect environment for the accumulation of allergens, bacteria, fungi, dust, dust mites, mold, and other organisms. Every time a heating and cooling unit runs, pollutants can be pulled in and over time, they will accumulate and flourish. Eventually, these contaminants are blown into rooms where they are inhaled by the occupants. The result will be the development of illnesses and severe allergic reactions.

Poor indoor air quality can cause or contribute to the development of chronic respiratory illnesses such as asthma, bronchitis, lung disease, headaches and migraines, dry eyes, nasal congestion, nausea, insomnia, and tiredness. Biological pollutants such as moulds, bacteria, viruses, pollen, and animal dander reduce air quality which can cause serious illness.

Duct Cleaning Benefits

Cleaning your air ducts is a great method of improving the quality of indoor air. It improves air circulation, eliminates the built-up of contaminates, and improves the quality and function of heating and cooling systems. Duct cleaning involves the cleaning and disinfection of the components of a heating and cooling system. This normally includes supply and return air ducts and registers, grills and diffusers, heat exchangers, heating and cooling coils, drip pans, fan motor, fan housing and air handling unit housing. If not properly maintained, the components will become contaminated with dirt and other microorganisms.

Moisture in ducts is a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi which can cause respiratory illnesses when inhaled. If there are mice or rats running through the ducts, they will often leave their droppings in the ducts. Air blowing the droppings can result air contamination and may lead to serious health problems.

Duct Cleaning technicians have the experience and tools to thoroughly clean and disinfect ducts. There are professional cleaners that can clean a variety of ducts such as commercial, residential, and industrial ducts. The outcome will be a cleaner and less dusty home or building because there will no longer be any dust blowing into rooms. The chance of an indoor allergic reaction will be greatly reduced. Dust mites feed on debris found in air ducts. When you eliminate the debris, you will eliminate the dust mites. Newly constructed homes may also need a duct cleaning.

Materials such as plaster and drywall particles, wood, dust, insects and insulation can accumulate in ducts during construction. Removing these contaminants will make breathing in your new home much easier. New homes are now being built to be more energy efficient. This means that they are more air tight. Dirty air ducts in an energy efficient home can seriously affect the health of the occupants.

If left unclean for a long period of time, your air duct system could be a major source of dust and contaminants. For businesses, hiring a professional duct cleaning service once or twice a year will greatly improve the health of employees, clients, and customers. Cleaning home ducts will benefit homeowners, their children, and their pets

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In a world that is becoming increasingly industrialized, and in a world where more people can afford to drive cars, air pollution is becoming a larger problem. While there are those who would debate whether or not our air pollution is causing global warming, versus the earth’s natural warming process since the last Ice Age, that is not the issue. Definitive proof may or may not be found anytime soon. What is certain, however, is that there are confirmed problems caused by air pollution. These problems include respiratory problems and they also include problems regarding what we eat.

As the world moves more into the modern age, more pollutants are spewed into the air. Rising middle classes in large, formerly poor countries like China and India want the same privileges that we have of driving cars. Additionally, countries that entered the latter half of the 20th Century largely free of industry are now establishing it in order to jump into the 21st Century and bring their economies up to date. Many of these countries are understandably resentful of regulations that others try to foist on them because the already industrialized countries had their opportunity for unregulated and explosive industrial growth. And the increasing demands for cars, coupled with lowered restrictions on pollution output, in the U.S. continues to drive the air pollution machine. No matter where it comes from, however, air pollution causes health problems almost everywhere.

Respiratory problems are a very natural and scientifically established result of air pollution. While mild pollution is not awful for a healthy person in the prime of his or her life, polluting particles in the air can cause problems in children and in the elderly or the infirm. Additionally pollutants in the air can aggravate asthma symptoms and increase allergy symptoms. This can be annoying and dangerous to the health of some people.

But these respiratory problems are not all. Heavy air pollution can be damaging even to the most healthy of people. Mexico City, the largest city in the world, has major air pollution problems. It is said that just breathing the air each day is like smoking more than a pack of cigarettes. If the pollution is heavy enough, serious health problems, including cancer, can result from the toxins constantly breathed in through the air.

Another air pollution problem has to do with mercury. Mercury is a by product of many factories, and is present in the particles spewed from the tops of smokestacks. As the mercury gets into the earths atmospheric system, it mingles with rain, which then falls into water and is absorbed by fish. As larger fish (like tuna) prey on the smaller, they receive even higher amounts. Even though fish is generally healthy, there are some varieties that should be avoided. And it is recommended that no one eat more than two servings of fish per week. Pregnant women and children should eat no more than one serving of some fish and should avoid eating any of certain types of fish, as the mercury can cause defects and has been linked to developmental problems.

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According to the American Medical Association 94% of all respiratory ailments are caused by polluted air. Below are outlined the most important facts to consider about indoor air pollution:

1. Over 40 million Americans suffer from allergies and 17 million struggle with asthma

2. More than 1,500 hazardous substances may be found in the typical American home. What happens when you take this polluted air into your lungs? – Allergies, asthma, dizziness, sinus issues, ear infections, headaches, nausea, and respiratory infections. Indeed, about 50 million Americans suffer from allergies and asthma, and this equates to 9 million doctor visits per year!

3. Bacteria and molds promote poor indoor air quality.

4. Pets and tobacco smoke significantly contribute into indoor air pollution

5. According to the EPA, “indoor pollution can be as much as 100 times greater than outdoors.”

Those particularly vulnerable to indoor pollutants include infants, people with heart, lung diseases and asthma. Additionally, anyone with extreme sensitivity to chemicals might want to seriously consider using an air purifier.

There are various types of air purifiers, so you can buy a purifier that fits your needs and wallet. The most common are:

HEPA Filters (High Efficiency Particulate Air): The air goes through a specially designed filter, cleaning 99.7% of the pollutants from the air. To understand how the HEPA process works, imagine a filter that only allows very tiny particles to pass through. If you placed a single sheet of this HEPA paper in front of a fan, very little air would be able to pass because of the small size of the holes.

Ionic Indoor Pollution Air Purifiers works by causing particles in the air to have a slight charge, particles are attracted to either a metal plate or to surfaces in the area. Most people are unaware that there are at least 4 different types of ionic air purifier in use today.

Ionizers have been around for many years. Have you ever felt like getting outside to get a breath of fresh air? Interestingly enough, some scientists point to +/- ions as part of the reason for outside air “feeling right”. Combined with other methods, it can be extremely effective.

Carbon air purifiers: Activated carbon air filters consist of a system of pores that are tiny in size. These pores are highly absorbent, chemically reacting to particles that pass through them and the particles and odors actually bond with the carbon. Note that most carbon activated devices also incorporate HEPA technology, thereby combining the advantages of both types of technology

Ultra-violet Indoor Pollution Air Purifiers work by passing a ultra-violet beam through the air, which damages the DNA of biological pollutants affecting their reproduction system.

Ozone is a highly reactive oxidant that destroys certain bacteria, chemicals, bacteria and chemicals. Ozone Air Purifiers also reduce gases, odors, VOCs, and microorganisms.

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