Efficacy of Do-It-Yourself Air Filtration Units in Reducing Exposure to Simulated Respiratory Aerosols

Our investigation examined the efficacy of Do-It-Yourself (DIY) air filtration units in reducing recipient exposure to simulated respiratory aerosols within a mock classroom. Seven commercially available box style fans were evaluated using five performance parameters. Two fans with the highest and lowest airflow rates were subsequently evaluated in two DIY unit configurations using either 2.5 or 5 cm deep minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV) 13 filters. DIY air filtration units were tested with the central HVAC system set at 2 air changes/hour (ACH) to represent a classroom with low ventilation. Results of the investigation provide a better understanding of DIY units and their potential to reduce exposure to infectious aerosols that can transmit SARS-CoV-2 and other diseases. Non-Endorsement Disclaimer: Mention of any company or product does not constitute endorsement by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).