Air ionization: An effective complement to cabin air filtration
The air quality in vehicles significantly impacts our health and well-being. Pollutants such as fine dust, exhaust gases, and volatile organic compounds can accumulate in the cabin, increasing the risk of respiratory diseases, allergies, and other health issues. Considering these challenges, the demand for efficient solutions for vehicle interiors is growing.
One promising new technology to combat air pollution is air ionization. Air ionization is achieved through a specialized ionization unit placed in the air intake system before the cabin filter. Ionization enhances air purification efficiency by electrically charging particles in the air. This leads to improved filtration by cabin air filters, enabling more powerful air filtration with optimized energy consumption.
How air ionization improves cabin air filtration
Ionization unit
Conventional cabin air filters often reach their limits when it comes to effectively removing fine particles. This is where our ionization technology comes into play: By applying an electric field before the filter, particles in the air become electrically charged. Ionization facilitates particle separation in the filter medium and enhances filter performance throughout the filter's lifespan. Laboratory tests have shown a significant increase in the separation efficiency, particularly for fine dust. Air ionizers in vehicles thus contribute to effectively cleaning the cabin air.
Understanding the benefits of air ionization in vehicles
Cabin air filtration system with integrated ionization unit
Cabin air filtration systems with integrated ionization functions offer numerous advantages:
- In addition to increased filtration performance, this technology allows for a more compact filter design with optimized energy consumption.
- With reduced airflow resistance, the ventilation system operates more efficiently.
- Combined with high-quality filter media, such as activated carbon, bio-functional coatings, or nanofibers, it reliably retains not only particles but also gases, allergens, and even removes odors.
Successful tests confirm the effectiveness of ionization in vehicles
The effectiveness of our ionization technology has been demonstrated through extensive testing. A significant increase in filtration efficiency was observed both in cabin air filter test stands according to DIN 71460-1 and in field trials with the Cleaner Mobility Platform from MANN+HUMMEL. Even under challenging conditions, such as in a tunnel with high pollution levels, air ionizers in vehicles proved their consistent performance.
Air ionization: A key component of future automotive filtration systems
Holistic systems will play a crucial role in the future of cabin air filtration. Ionization will be a key component for vehicles, which can be combined with additional functions such as moisture and CO2 regulation through Cyclo-Multi-Sorber units. The integration of digital solutions for monitoring and controlling air quality is also gaining importance. This way, drivers and passengers can stay informed about the air quality in the vehicle and optimize it independently.
Ionization is a valuable addition to cabin air filtration in cars
By ionizing the incoming air, we elevate cabin air filtration to a new level – better protecting the health of vehicle occupants throughout the filter's lifespan. To fully benefit from the potential of ionization technology, using high-quality filter materials and filters remains essential. MANN+HUMMEL continuously works on developing innovative filter media to ensure our customers always have the best solutions for efficient filtration.
FAQ
Ionization is the process by which atoms or molecules lose or gain electrons, becoming electrically charged particles (ions). This occurs through the input of energy, such as heat, radiation, a strong electric field, or chemical reactions.
Ionization particularly improves the neutralization or binding of fine particles in the vehicle cabin. This leads to more effective and efficient air purification in an environment often exposed to high pollution levels.
In vehicle cabin filtration, an ionization unit is placed before the filter. This unit generates negatively charged ions that are released into the airflow. These ions attach to pollutants and particles in the air, electrically charging them. The charged particles are then captured more effectively by the filter medium and removed from the air.