Not all air cleaners are the same.

Scientists at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) have introduced a new testing standard to evaluate the by-products that some air cleaners may release. While these devices are meant to improve indoor air quality by removing pollutants such as particles, smoke, and microorganisms, certain technologies that rely on ultraviolet light, ionization, or chemical reactions can unintentionally produce other harmful compounds. These include ozone, formaldehyde, and ultrafine particles—pollutants that, in high concentrations, pose health risks. Until now, there was no standardized approach to measure these emissions.

Developed in collaboration with ASTM International, the new test offers a consistent and scientifically validated way to examine the by-products of air cleaners. The method involves running the devices in controlled conditions and measuring pollutants with advanced techniques that assess ozone and formaldehyde levels through UV light absorption and identify ultrafine particles using particle-sizing technology. With this standard in place, manufacturers will be better equipped to refine their products, regulators can establish safety benchmarks, and consumers will have clearer information for informed decision-making.

As demand for air cleaners grows in response to lingering public health concerns and environmental challenges, this new standard arrives at a pivotal time. It will help ensure that devices designed to protect indoor air do not inadvertently compromise it, giving both consumers and industry greater confidence moving forward.

For the full article, visit the NIST website.