Given the understanding that the virus responsible for COVID-19 can spread through aerosols—minute airborne particles that remain suspended for extended periods—researchers and engineers worldwide are focusing on enhancing air circulation in high-risk environments and eliminating active viral particles from the air. A notable example of this work is the Nanowave Air, a device developed by Dynamics, Inc., a company based in Pittsburgh (as reported by NEXT Pittsburgh). This device utilizes UV-C light in a secure and controlled manner to deactivate the virus within enclosed areas.

The Nanowave Air functions on a similar principle to standard air purifiers commonly found in homes. It employs a fan to draw air in, then filters it before releasing the purified air back into the room. However, instead of a traditional filter, this device uses exposure to ultraviolet light—specifically UV-C light, which has demonstrated effectiveness in eliminating the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19.

UV-C light is distinct from the more prevalent UV-A light that we routinely encounter from sunlight. Direct exposure to UV-C light is detrimental to human health. While it has been previously utilized for sterilizing surfaces indoors, its use typically necessitates unoccupied spaces, and its effectiveness ceases once the area is reoccupied.

The Nanowave Air was conceived by Dynamics, a Carnegie Mellon spinout, when its Chief Executive Officer recognized the potential to adapt their existing UV-C light source technology—originally designed for large-scale industrial applications—to address the COVID-19 pandemic. This realization led to the creation of the portable Air unit, which is approximately the size of a small telescope. It operates by containing the UV-C light internally and rapidly circulating air through it with fans, thereby neutralizing any present virus while simultaneously allowing continued occupancy of the space.

The Nanowave Air is currently available for purchase, with a retail price of $3,450. It is designed for use in settings such as primary care facilities, dental practices, and other communal areas where individuals must share space despite current social distancing recommendations, particularly concerning indoor environments. The company, which has validated its technology through testing at numerous U.S. laboratories—including the University of Pittsburgh’s Center for Vaccine Research—has also announced its deployment in some households with a COVID-19-positive individual to minimize the risk of transmission to other household members who have not yet contracted the disease.

Recent announcements have brought encouraging news regarding the development of COVID-19 vaccines. However, even with successful vaccines and rapid distribution, global efforts to contain COVID-19 will still require substantial preventative measures to protect those who remain unvaccinated. Controlling the airborne spread of the virus will undoubtedly be crucial, and solutions like the Nanowave Air could play a significant role in these ongoing efforts.