ROME – An air filter made by Honda capable of capturing a wide range of germs, allergens and even viruses linked to important health complications, including the risk of coronavirus infection. Developed in collaboration with Freudenberg and compatible with all new models of the Japanese brand as an alternative to the pollen filter, it owes its effectiveness to its multilayer design that effectively filters and eliminates harmful environmental gases, as well as biological and inorganic particles and aerosols . Effectiveness also demonstrated by a series of tests conducted in collaboration with the Austrian Research Institute (OFI). To reduce the risk of infection inside the passenger compartment, the recommendations include increasing the amount of fresh air introduced in order to lower the aerosol concentration. In recirculation mode, the elimination of viruses depends not only on the percentage of air exchange but also on the efficiency of the filter system.
“The first two microfiber layers of the filter capture most of the aerosols, dust and ultra-fine pollen; the third layer, on the other hand, made with activated carbon, absorbs the particles and acid gases that contribute to pollution ”, explain the Honda technicians. “At this point, an innovative fourth layer made with a bio-functional membrane, coated with an organic substance obtained from fruit extract, effectively inactivates the trapped viral aerosols, preventing them from being released into the passenger compartment”.
Coronavirus spreads through droplets produced by a sneeze, a cough or simple breath; these aerosol particles can stick to surfaces for hours or even days. The movement of air, changes in temperature and humidity can spread these particles in the air: and this is where the filter developed by Honda comes into action. The different particulate layers offer far more effective virus protection than conventional filters. It has been shown that they are capable of separating not only droplets (> 5 μm) but also dangerous viral aerosols (considerably below 5 μm) with a percentage that exceeds 90%. Furthermore, an innovative second layer makes inactive almost 100% of the viral load imprisoned, thanks to a bio-functional membrane coated with an organic substance obtained from fruit extract.
“Now that we are all aware of the impact on humanity of germs and viruses, we expect a rapid increase in demand for safety and security solutions also in cars,” explains Eiichi Hino, President of Honda Access Europe. “This air filter is an extraordinary example of Honda’s ability to collaborate quickly and productively with its suppliers and offer a high quality product capable of improving the health and safety of the driver and passengers.” (fp)
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