Ultraviolet-C Powered Air Purifying Respirator (UVC PAPR)

Abstract

The global challenge posed by pandemics, notably COVID-19, has underscored the critical need for advanced personal protective equipment (PPE). This thesis details the development and evaluation of a multi-stage powered air-purifying respirator (PAPR) incorporating direct ultraviolet-C (UVC) germicidal irradiation. The proposed PAPR aims to provide enhanced protection by actively sterilizing air through this UVC chamber immediately prior to inhalation. This approach offers an advantage over traditional filter-based PAPRs by removing both the need to replace filters and pull air with high-power motors, while still neutralizing a broad spectrum of airborne pathogens, including viruses and bacteria. The primary objective of this research is to design, construct, and test a PAPR prototype capable of achieving a high inactivation rate (target 99.9%), thereby offering a robust solution for individuals in high-exposure environments. In addition to the UVC chamber, we also built an alternate ultraviolet-A (UVA) activated titanium dioxide (TiO2) photocatalytic oxidation (PCO) chamber. This work encompasses the overall design of the system, safety considerations, and testing to quantify its pathogen inactivation efficacy and to characterize system performance.