1. What is the long-term efficacy of ACA’s ionization purification system?
Speaking to the underlying ionization units themselves, the calculated MTBF of the airborne units is 87,530 hours. There is no required maintenance of the units once installed in the aircraft. That said, it is common for operators to perform an elective annual simple test with the handheld ion counter to ensure the ion levels are being maintained in the aircraft. In the 8 years of system installations and operations there has yet be any failure of any system components of any kind. As of the end of 2020, 650 ACA components have been installed in 285 total aircraft (and 1,000 customers using the ground unit worldwide). The installed base is increasing daily and currently includes 23 large cabin VIP including the B-737, B-767, the A320 series and the Airbus A330 with installations committed in 2021 to include the B-747 and B-787 and additional A330. We are including several testimonials from active operating customers. It is important to note that the feedback includes more than the positive effect on pathogens. The pro-active effect on odors and breathing improvement are also obvious and may be more tangible for the flying passengers as a distinct and highly noticeable attribute of the system.
2. Do you know when the system is not working?
Each STC installation includes an indication panel which also houses an on/off switch and an optional ‘push-to-test’ button in the event the panel is installed in the aft cockpit area for convenience and consistency (the location is very flexible). Our research indicated that varying aircraft layouts/configurations identified the P61 panel as a good opportunity to have a uniform location across fleets like SW where the aircraft have varying original heritage). The panel simply indicates that power is applied to the system. Any time power is applied, the system will be active. The system can remain in the ‘on’ position indefinitely without further crew interaction at the discretion of the operator. The design allows for the flexibility to increase or decrease the number of installed units (depending on aircraft make or model), and the indicator panel would be configured to match the installed condition. A very simple test with a handheld ion testing meter can determine that the system is operating. Upon initial installation, we recommend a very quick check with the handheld Alpha Air Ion Meter to confirm operation. As mentioned above, this process can be performed for confidence at any interval desired but is not necessary based on data to date. Because of the passive nature of the system operation, and non-critical status for aircraft operation and performance (essentially a comfort enhancement not too different than a tray table or coffee maker), the system is not considered to be included in the MEL. It is also important to note that the ACA ionizer components are DO-160 certified.
The underlying GPS bi-polar ionization components have been installed in thousands of applications including high profile residences like the White House and the Presidential Palace of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Zayas Grand Mosque, Shams gate tower in Abu Dhabi, Google in San Jose and Chicago and many other high-traffic/volume commercial locations such as schools, universities and hospitals including Operating Rooms.
The aircraft application has been installed on the A330-200, Boeing 737 series, Airbus 320 series, Leonardo AW189, AW139, AW169 Helicopters, Falcon aircraft, Bombardier Aircraft and STCs on the G450/GV/G550 and G650/G650ER aircraft. Installations are currently ongoing on the B767, B787 and planned for the B747. The ALOFT AML STC will be capable of including all Part 25 aircraft as configurations for installation under the same STC with necessary deviations approved by the in-house ALOFT ODA or locally by the installing entity under its own minor change authority.
The underlying GPS bi-polar ionization components have been installed in thousands of applications including high profile residences like the White House and the Presidential Palace of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Zayas Grand Mosque, Shams gate tower in Abu Dhabi, Google in San Jose and Chicago and many other high-traffic/volume commercial locations such as schools, universities and hospitals including Operating Rooms.
The aircraft application has been installed on the A330-200, Boeing 737 series, Airbus 320 series, Leonardo AW189, AW139, AW169 Helicopters, Falcon aircraft, Bombardier Aircraft and STCs on the G450/GV/G550 and G650/G650ER aircraft. Installations are currently ongoing on the B767, B787 and planned for the B747. The ALOFT AML STC will be capable of including all Part 25 aircraft as configurations for installation under the same STC with necessary deviations approved by the in-house ALOFT ODA or locally by the installing entity under its own minor change authority.
3. Is there any BIT feedback/ monitoring?
Yes. The device has alarm “dry/binary” contact.
4. What are the effects of Ozone, and how is this level going to affect us?
The ACA RN-0001 Components does not produce Ozone (O3) because the system is specifically designed to generate ions below 12.0 eV (electron Voltage Potential). Ozone is produced when systems operate over 12.07 eV. The component technology is patented specifically because of this advancement in the generation of ions. Each unit generates approximately 3,500,000 positive and negative ions every second without any production of O3 or any harmful gases or chemicals. The technology has been UL867 tested and meets the FAR Requirement for ozone. Below is a link to the ozone test report from ACA.
https://www.aviationcleanair.com/uploads/6/1/1/6/6116687/gtr-aca-oz-0001_rev_nc-_aca_ionizer_ozone_emission_test_results_june_2019.pdf
Since there is no ozone generated, below we have included various excerpts and links to international assessments of ionization and humans.
https://www.continuitycentral.com/HealthyBuildings.pdf
We are also attaching two related articles below published by the National Institute of Health which provide varying information on ions.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6213340/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3848581/
https://www.aviationcleanair.com/uploads/6/1/1/6/6116687/gtr-aca-oz-0001_rev_nc-_aca_ionizer_ozone_emission_test_results_june_2019.pdf
Since there is no ozone generated, below we have included various excerpts and links to international assessments of ionization and humans.
https://www.continuitycentral.com/HealthyBuildings.pdf
We are also attaching two related articles below published by the National Institute of Health which provide varying information on ions.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6213340/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3848581/
5. How is the efficacy of this ionization technology measured? How many pathogens, microorganisms are neutralized by electrostatically charging in a certain volume?
We believe you are asking the efficacy in varying viral loads. Of course, we will share all existing lab analysis which shows specific efficacy on individual pathogen specimens tested by EMSL and collaborative research with other global organization. The viral load within the test parameters will be noted in each pathogen efficacy study. We are also working now with Innovative Bionalysis to test the Covid19 strain if the Corona Virus. This new test we are doing is also testing against several different levels of viral loads specifically to show the neutralization/die off rate at varying virus concentration levels.
The STC installation offers the flexibility to increase the ions generated by adding additional ionization units into the aircraft ECS system. The current installation of 4 units in a 737-700/800 is based on testing we have performed in the lab to ensure the best efficacy of the system in an environment with constantly changing (additional) viral loads. The typical number of ionization units recommended per aircraft type is intended to yield higher positive and negative ions than the levels that were used during lab tests to neutralize the pathogens being tested.
Phase 1 test results styled as: “SARS-CoV-2 Neutralization by Ionization” as performed by Innovative Bioanalysis - Conclusions/Observations which states as follows: CLICK HERE
Based on the results listed in the report, it can be determined that hydrolysis via positively charged hydrogen ions binding to peplomers of the SARS-CoV-2 virus can render 99.4% of viral particles inactive on a stagnant surface at 30 minutes.
Phase 2 test results
Phase 3 test results
In addition, our testing was performed with our units and the current Corona Virus Covid19 strain (in several forms to include US, Italy, Hong Kong, and other mutations which will be tested later).
The STC installation offers the flexibility to increase the ions generated by adding additional ionization units into the aircraft ECS system. The current installation of 4 units in a 737-700/800 is based on testing we have performed in the lab to ensure the best efficacy of the system in an environment with constantly changing (additional) viral loads. The typical number of ionization units recommended per aircraft type is intended to yield higher positive and negative ions than the levels that were used during lab tests to neutralize the pathogens being tested.
Phase 1 test results styled as: “SARS-CoV-2 Neutralization by Ionization” as performed by Innovative Bioanalysis - Conclusions/Observations which states as follows: CLICK HERE
Based on the results listed in the report, it can be determined that hydrolysis via positively charged hydrogen ions binding to peplomers of the SARS-CoV-2 virus can render 99.4% of viral particles inactive on a stagnant surface at 30 minutes.
Phase 2 test results
Phase 3 test results
In addition, our testing was performed with our units and the current Corona Virus Covid19 strain (in several forms to include US, Italy, Hong Kong, and other mutations which will be tested later).
6. What will be the efficacy of ACA with the UK strain B117?
The Covid 19 virus has actually mutated many times already, and the ACA system has been tested on the US strain, the Wuhan strain and the Italian strain. Additionally, ACA has requested the lab to get the new B117 strain as well so we can do testing on that as well just so we have it documented. They have ordered the new strain and will do the resting for us as soon as they receive it.
The B117 strain mutated in a way that affect the protein spikes on the virus surface. This mutation makes the virus more easily attach to human cells which in turn makes it more contagious. It’s able to bind to the receptors on our cells which makes it more transmittable to others, hence more contagious.
The B117 strain mutated in a way that affect the protein spikes on the virus surface. This mutation makes the virus more easily attach to human cells which in turn makes it more contagious. It’s able to bind to the receptors on our cells which makes it more transmittable to others, hence more contagious.
7. On the electrical discharge side of this technology, here are questions on the safety side effects of this technology and as relates to engineering: Knowing that with the Ionization technology, the human and atmosphere airborne will be electrostatically charged by the Anion (Negative ions) and Cation (Positive Ions), both produced by the ionizer installed in our airplanes, the molecules in turn are then attracted to any nearby grounded conductors and how will those charged particles be grounded if the airplane is flying and ionizers are running? Does this ionizer have some sort of grounding plates built in, or will the charged particles be attracted to walls and ceilings creating a strong static electricity inside the airplane? Trying to have some understanding on the electrical discharge side of this.
This system does not use charged or grounded plates. We create equal (steady state) quantities of positive and negative ions which neutralize static electricity in the cabin. It has been shown through the very old 1960’s vintage ASHRAE Journal article attached that ions will reach the space in high velocity designs. The plane is a high velocity duct and as shown through testing, high levels of ions get to the space. Previous testing in buildings show high levels of ions entering the space. Our unit does not require grounding to work. In fact, the airplane unit is a DC device and we do not require a ground to operate. The way we designed the circuit, we come off the high voltage transformer with a voltage multiplier circuit, one for + high voltage and the other phased for - high voltage, without the need for a ground. The ions will make particles agglomerate, thereby increasing in mass/surface area and allow them to be pushed to the HEPA filter for removal.
8. What are the typical levels of ions generated, and to what extent do the number and placement of the devices affect the total effective output into the cabin? What is the time basis, duration, or dwell-time of the ion supply? And to what extent might the ions never reach the surfaces in the passenger cabin?
Each of the individual ACA ionization units produces approximately 3,500,000 positive and negative ions/cm3 every second. The recommend installation for a typical 737-700/800 is 5 components, which can be installed in various areas of the ECS duct system. The goal of the installation (locations and # of units) is to achieve a constant flow of positive and negative ions that exceed the recommended an average of 6,000 ion/cm3 throughout the conditioned space. Because the average flight duration of the B-737 in a commercial operation is 120 minutes, gate to gate, the optimal goal is to reach a threshold faster to assure effective ion saturation on shorter duration flight segments as well. The longer routes will provide more than adequate time to build ion saturation. In general, you can expect ions generated and cabin readings will decrease on passenger loading but increase over time as the positive and negative ions fill the cabin space. Typically, you will see an increase in ions within the first 1-2 minutes in the cabin from when the ECS system is activated. The dwell time of the ion supply from our ion generators is constant, and ions will typically stay in the air for up to 60 seconds, but again, as more ions are generated and distributed, more areas will receive the higher ion counts as the ions fill the airspace. The variation within each cabin environment (passengers and particulates for example) will affect the rate of ion saturation which is part of the benefit of the ions by agglomerating the particulates on a curve until they are mitigated from the breathing zones by falling to the floor or filters etc. This is also true for odors and allergens which are mitigated over time during the constant saturation process.
9. Why are bipolar ion generators used rather than negative ion generators? Why is one better than the other?
ACA needlepoint bipolar ionization (NPBI™) is a proactive system which neutralizes pathogens, controls odors, removes allergens and controls static electricity in the living space. Producing only negative ions is a passive system – just like filters and UV lights. Passive systems do little or nothing to improve air quality, neutralize pathogens, control allergens and static electricity in the space leaving the people vulnerable. Production of both positive and negative ions is a duplication of nature’s natural cleansing process with nothing else added or created. The unit is effectively an acceleration of nature’s cleansing process. The ACA components reduce exposure time to existing, as well as new pathogens exponentially, and therefore reduces the chance of cross-contamination from several days (that viruses can survive on surfaces) to minutes.
Producing only negative ions does not duplicate nature’s process. To be effective by any measure producing only negative ions would require a corresponding positively charged plate and an additional artificially produced air flow back to those positively charged plates to remove only the air borne particles/pathogens/allergens [which may carry viruses/pathogens]. This “pitch and catch” [negative only] system would not be effective on surface pathogens/allergens. The plates would also require constant cleaning/maintenance and the costs that would be associated with that maintenance. The ACA system overcomes these obstacles by being Bi-Polar and produces both positive and negative ions.
There are different benefits for both negative and positive ions. In short, negative ions disrupt and sever the hydrogen bonds in a pathogen/spore, while positive ions dismantle the structure of certain gases. Positive Ions also work to agglomerate airborne particulate to remove them out of the breathing zone. We know that certain pathogens use particulates as a carrier for the spread of the pathogen and by removing the particulate you increase the health benefits not just for ease of breathing with limited particulate in the air, but also to mitigate the migration of pathogens on the airborne particulates. Positive Ions have also been studied to help moods and have been shown to promote a feeling of well-being and positive moods. Some of these aspects are also covered in the linked articles above.
Producing only negative ions does not duplicate nature’s process. To be effective by any measure producing only negative ions would require a corresponding positively charged plate and an additional artificially produced air flow back to those positively charged plates to remove only the air borne particles/pathogens/allergens [which may carry viruses/pathogens]. This “pitch and catch” [negative only] system would not be effective on surface pathogens/allergens. The plates would also require constant cleaning/maintenance and the costs that would be associated with that maintenance. The ACA system overcomes these obstacles by being Bi-Polar and produces both positive and negative ions.
There are different benefits for both negative and positive ions. In short, negative ions disrupt and sever the hydrogen bonds in a pathogen/spore, while positive ions dismantle the structure of certain gases. Positive Ions also work to agglomerate airborne particulate to remove them out of the breathing zone. We know that certain pathogens use particulates as a carrier for the spread of the pathogen and by removing the particulate you increase the health benefits not just for ease of breathing with limited particulate in the air, but also to mitigate the migration of pathogens on the airborne particulates. Positive Ions have also been studied to help moods and have been shown to promote a feeling of well-being and positive moods. Some of these aspects are also covered in the linked articles above.
10. Would it be practical to measure the ion concentration in-service or during a routine maintenance check?
Yes. It is practical to perform a ‘confidence’ test at any interval desired with the Ion Counter test unit by Alpha Labs. This can be used to measure the levels of ions in the cabin to ensure you have the recommended average levels throughout the cabin and to verify the units are operating properly. If the LED lights are working there should be no need to test, but a routine MX check would be advisable and an extremely simple and non-invasive addition to any schedule MX visits.
11. Is any additional data available other than the UL and Intertek UL 867 testing?
ALOFT AeroArchitects has tested for ozone during each stage of the STC cert testing process with no measurable ozone detected at any time. This correlates with the ozone free technology certification of the GPS technology and the testing ACA has done as well to confirm this conclusion.
A Flight Test was conducted in a Bombardier 7500 for over 6 flight hours and the following Flight Test Report is available HERE.
A Flight Test was conducted in a Bombardier 7500 for over 6 flight hours and the following Flight Test Report is available HERE.
12. What is the relationship (if any) between ACA and Global Plasma Solutions (the latter is referenced in each of several bipolar ionization system efficacy test reports by EMSL Analytical)? When were these tests conducted?
ALOFT AeroArchitects has tested for ozone during each stage of the STC cert testing process with no measurable ozone detected at any time. This correlates with the ozone free technology certification of the GPS technology and the testing ACA has done as well to confirm this conclusion.
Another Agency has tested for Ozone, with equivalent test results without mentioning the source.
Another Agency has tested for Ozone, with equivalent test results without mentioning the source.
13. How effective is the needlepoint bipolar ionixation (NPBI™) compared to other alternatives. like UV, chemicals and fogging?
14. Are Ions created evenly (meaning are the same number of positive and negative Ions produced at all times) from the Component?
ACA produces a steady state level of both positive and negative ions at the tips (carbon fiber brushes) and ACA would like to reiterate the fact that the positive and negative ion levels in the cabin may or may not be equal in quantity for a period of time either localized to a specific location (such as the galley or restroom) until the ionization neutralizes preexisting pathogens, allergens, odors, etc in the space at which time the quantities of both positive and negative ions will steadily level out in the space and on average. If you get higher readings of one or the other it is due to the fact that the ionization is in all probability dealing with a localized condition in that area such as cooking in the galley or cleaning odors in the restrooms for example.
Additionally, our system does produce equal amounts of positive and negative ions however, the ion level measured may differ (as they did in nature naturally). It is common for the ion levels to be different, especially when the system is first turned on because the positive ions (primarily) agglomerate around airborne particulate, and the negative ions will agglomerate on pathogens (primarily). As the system is operating, and the particulate and pathogens are neutralized and particulate removed, the levels of both positive and negative ions will balance. The Air Force Research Lab measured our system for imbalance out of concern if issues with their systems and it was determined our system was balanced and no noticeable difference occurred and our system was deemed safe for their defense systems. Additionally remember if the aircraft has a built up charge from other sources (such as static electricity) our system will neutralize these charges and while that occurs there will be an imbalance until we reach a steady state in the aircraft, again this is normal and not harmful in any way (just like static electricity is not unhealthy inside an aircraft). Also, there are systems (commercial) that only produce one ion (normally negative) and there is no harmful effect on people. In nature it is very common for one to be higher than the other (such as an electrical storm -positive, or a waterfall that produces higher negative ions. An imbalance is not a danger to people, materials, electronics, food or animals.
Additionally, our system does produce equal amounts of positive and negative ions however, the ion level measured may differ (as they did in nature naturally). It is common for the ion levels to be different, especially when the system is first turned on because the positive ions (primarily) agglomerate around airborne particulate, and the negative ions will agglomerate on pathogens (primarily). As the system is operating, and the particulate and pathogens are neutralized and particulate removed, the levels of both positive and negative ions will balance. The Air Force Research Lab measured our system for imbalance out of concern if issues with their systems and it was determined our system was balanced and no noticeable difference occurred and our system was deemed safe for their defense systems. Additionally remember if the aircraft has a built up charge from other sources (such as static electricity) our system will neutralize these charges and while that occurs there will be an imbalance until we reach a steady state in the aircraft, again this is normal and not harmful in any way (just like static electricity is not unhealthy inside an aircraft). Also, there are systems (commercial) that only produce one ion (normally negative) and there is no harmful effect on people. In nature it is very common for one to be higher than the other (such as an electrical storm -positive, or a waterfall that produces higher negative ions. An imbalance is not a danger to people, materials, electronics, food or animals.
15, Are there situations where ionization can cause a metallic taste in the mouth? On food?
Again, as in the response above, there is nothing that would cause this from ionization to people. Ion levels in our environment are often very high (such as Niagara Falls, the beach, or forests) and ions will not cause any differences other than the air being fresh from the reduction of VOCs and contaminants.
16. Is Formaldehyde formation / generation a potential side effect of long flights w/ ionization?
Actually, our system will dismantle Formaldehyde (CH2O) from the air. CH2O has a eV (electron voltage) of 10.88, as such our system will dismantle Formaldehyde gas into the base components - Carbon (C) and Water (H2O). Our system does not produce any adverse gases or chemicals.