In a groundbreaking study published in ‘Indoor Environments,’ researchers are shedding light on the effectiveness of triethylene glycol (TEG) as a disinfectant for airborne pathogens, specifically the MS2 bacteriophage, which serves as a proxy for the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Conducted by Zuraimi Sultan from the Berkeley Education Alliance for Research in Singapore, this research has significant implications for the construction and HVAC sectors, particularly as buildings continue to adapt to post-pandemic health standards.
The study explored various building operational parameters, including air temperature, humidity, and ventilation rates, to determine how these factors influence TEG’s ability to deactivate airborne microorganisms. The findings reveal a nuanced relationship between environmental conditions and disinfectant efficacy. For instance, TEG’s effectiveness peaked at 55% relative humidity and diminished as temperatures rose from 22.0 to 25.0 °C. “Our results indicate that there are optimal conditions under which TEG performs best, which could inform HVAC system designs in commercial buildings,” Sultan noted.
One of the standout revelations was the impact of ventilation rates on TEG’s performance. While higher recirculation rates improved inactivation rates of the MS2 bacteriophage, increased outdoor ventilation and the use of high-efficiency filters, such as MERV14, had a counterproductive effect. This insight is critical for architects and engineers as they design modern HVAC systems that balance fresh air intake with effective pathogen control.
The study also established that a TEG concentration of just 0.44 mg/m³ is sufficient for achieving a one-log reduction of MS2 within an hour. This finding opens up possibilities for integrating TEG into existing air treatment systems without necessitating extensive modifications or high operational costs. “This research not only fills a gap in our understanding of TEG’s disinfection capabilities but also provides a practical framework for its application in real-world scenarios,” Sultan added.
As the construction industry increasingly prioritizes health and safety in building design, the implications of this research are profound. By adopting TEG as a viable disinfectant, builders can enhance indoor air quality and contribute to safer environments for occupants. This aligns with the growing trend of incorporating health-focused technologies into building infrastructure, a shift that is likely to gain momentum in the coming years.
For those interested in further exploring the details of this study, it can be accessed through the Berkeley Education Alliance for Research in Singapore’s website at lead_author_affiliation. The findings underscore the importance of evidence-based approaches in the construction sector, particularly as it navigates a landscape forever altered by the COVID-19 pandemic.