Effects of antimicrobial treatment on fiberglass-acrylic filters

Aims: The aims of the present study were to: (i) analyse a group of antimicrobial agents and to select the most active against test microbial strains; (ii) test the effect of the antimicrobial treatment on air filters in order to reduce microbial colonization. Methods and Results: Different kinds of antimicrobial agents were analysed to assess their compatibility with the production process of air filter media. The minimal inhibitory concentration for each antimicrobial agent was determined against a defined list of microbial strains, and an antimicrobial activity assay of filter prototypes was developed to determine the most active agent among the compatible antimicrobials. Then, the most active was chosen and added directly to the filter during the production process. The microbial colonization of treated and untreated filter media was assessed at different working times for different incubation times by stereomicroscope and scanning electron microscope analysis. Some of the antimicrobial agents analysed were more active against microbial test strains and compatible with the production process of the filter media. Filter sections analysis of treated filter media showed a significantly lower microbial colonization than those untreated, a reduction of species both in density and varieties and of the presence of bacteria and fungal hyphae with reproductive structures. Conclusions: This study demonstrated the ability of antimicrobial treatments to inhibit the growth of micro-organisms in filter media and subsequently to increase indoor air quality (IAQ), highlighting the value of adding antimicrobials to filter media. Significance and Impact of the Study: To make a contribution to solving the problem of microbial contamination of air filters, by demonstrating the efficacy of incorporating antimicrobial agents in the filter media to improve IAQ and health.