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A Simple Electrostatic Precipitator for Trapping Virus Particles Spread via Droplet Transmission

Author

Listed:
  • Koji Kakutani

    (Pharmaceutical Research and Technology Institute, Kindai University, Osaka 577-8502, Japan)

  • Yoshinori Matsuda

    (Laboratory of Phytoprotection Science and Technology, Faculty of Agriculture, Kindai University, Nara 631-8505, Japan)

  • Teruo Nonomura

    (Laboratory of Phytoprotection Science and Technology, Faculty of Agriculture, Kindai University, Nara 631-8505, Japan)

  • Yoshihiro Takikawa

    (Plant Center, Institute of Advanced Technology, Kindai University, Wakayama 642-0017, Japan)

  • Takeshi Takami

    (Department of Internal Medicine, Clinic Jingumae, Nara 634-0804, Japan)

  • Hideyoshi Toyoda

    (Research Association of Electric Field Screen Supporters, Nara 631-8505, Japan)

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to develop a simple electrostatic apparatus to precipitate virus particles spread via droplet transmission, which is especially significant in the context of the recent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. The bacteriophage φ6 of Pseudomonas syringae was used as a model of the COVID-19 virus because of its similar structure and safety in experiments. The apparatus consisted of a spiked, perforated stainless plate (S-PSP) linked to a direct-current voltage generator to supply negative charge to the spike tips and a vessel with water (G-water) linked to a ground line. The S-PSP and G-water surface were paralleled at a definite interval. Negative charge supplied to the spike tips positively polarised the G-water by electrostatic induction to form an electric field between them in which ionic wind and negative ions were generated. Bacteriophage-containing water was atomised with a nebuliser and introduced into the electric field. The mist particles were ionised by the negative ions and attracted to the opposite pole (G-water). This apparatus demonstrated a prominent ability to capture phage-containing mist particles of the same sizes as respiratory droplets and aerosols regardless of the phage concentration of the mist particles. The trapped phages were successfully sterilised using ozone bubbling. Thus, the present study provides an effective system for eliminating droplet transmission of viral pathogens from public spaces.

Suggested Citation

  • Koji Kakutani & Yoshinori Matsuda & Teruo Nonomura & Yoshihiro Takikawa & Takeshi Takami & Hideyoshi Toyoda, 2021. "A Simple Electrostatic Precipitator for Trapping Virus Particles Spread via Droplet Transmission," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(9), pages 1-14, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:18:y:2021:i:9:p:4934-:d:549344
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Yoshihiro Takikawa & Yoshinori Matsuda & Teruo Nonomura & Koji Kakutani & Shin-Ichi Kusakari & Hideyoshi Toyoda, 2017. "An Electrostatic-Barrier-Forming Window that Captures Airborne Pollen Grains to Prevent Pollinosis," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 14(1), pages 1-5, January.
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