Filtration of nanoparticles applied in general ventilation

Abstract

Nanoparticles (NPs) are particles with a diameter less than or equal to 100 nm. Because of their size, they pose a major challenge to workers’ health and safety. General ventilation is one of the solutions in order to minimize both occupational and general exposure.

In North America, ventilation filters are tested according to ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 52.2 and rated according to their efficiency results as a function of particle diameter. The most penetrating particle size (MPPS) is commonly accepted as being 300 nm, but it no longer represents the worst-case scenario in terms of particle diameter and filter penetration.

The purpose of this article is to compile an inventory of experimental knowledge on the performance of entire filters and their media. The scope of this experimental literature review is limited to studies of size-resolved penetration of media and entire filters published since 1980. Little information is available on size-resolved data for filters. The article also seeks to identify different trends by medium properties, particle properties, and operating conditions, particularly in terms of penetration and MPPS. These trends are already known for media, but more studies are still needed to determine whether the conclusions for media can be extrapolated to entire filters.