Wearable Air Shield Blocks 99.8% of Airborne Pathogens

A new wearable air shield has been developed that blocks 99.8% of airborne pathogens. This innovative device is designed to offer superior protection, particularly for workers in industrial and agricultural settings, where exposure to harmful airborne particles is a significant concern. The shield represents a breakthrough in personal protective equipment, combining advanced technology with practical application to enhance worker safety and health.

Boston Brand Media brings you the latest news - A novel wearable device that forms an invisible air barrier around the face could provide unmatched protection against airborne diseases. Created by Taza Aya, a startup from the University of Michigan, this technology effectively blocks almost all aerosols from contacting the wearer’s face, potentially transforming safety standards in high-risk work environments.

Independent evaluations have verified the efficacy of Taza Aya’s air curtain system. The device, which attaches to a hard hat, emits treated air downward from the brim, forming a protective shield around the face. This innovative design not only intercepts incoming particles but also neutralizes airborne pathogens.

Beyond Filtration: Deactivating Pathogens

The core innovation of Taza Aya’s system is its ability to deactivate airborne pathogens, not just filter them. Co-founder Herek Clack, an associate professor at U-M, explains that the air curtain uses treated air as a barrier, inactivating pathogens to prevent infection upon inhalation, offering unprecedented protection against airborne germs while enhancing user comfort.

The device employs non-thermal plasma technology, generating electrically charged molecules that neutralize pathogens without producing heat. This treated air then stabilizes, ensuring it is safe to breathe before reaching the user.

Tackling Real-World Agricultural Challenges

Taza Aya’s invention addresses significant challenges in agriculture, particularly highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic. Traditional masks, although useful, often impede communication and comfort in such settings.

Tina Conklin, VP of technical services at Michigan Turkey Producers, notes that during COVID-19, masks hindered communication with associates in many plants.

The air curtain system eliminates issues like fogged goggles, muffled speech, and the need to remove protection during meals. It features a 10-pound backpack containing the plasma module, air handler, electronics, and battery.

Taza Aya aims to introduce the “Worker Wearable” in 2025. CEO Alberto Elli expresses satisfaction with the study results, anticipating a successful launch.

As airborne health threats evolve, Taza Aya’s technology offers a promising solution for respiratory disease prevention. By merging advanced science with practical design, this invisible shield could significantly enhance workplace safety across various industries.

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Source: scienceblog‍