Are HEPA filters effective in removing airborne TB bacteria?
The average TB bacteria is a rod shaped particle that is 0.3 – 0.6 microns wide by a length of 1-4 microns. This is well within the capture range of the filter. Most airborne TB bacteria are enveloped in a particle of moisture called a droplet nuclei. The droplet nuclei is larger than the bacteria itself which increases the efficiency of its removal by the filter. Q: Will an air purifier using a HEPA filter eliminate any chance of contracting TB in the space that it is cleaning? An air purifier using a HEPA filter greatly reduces the quantity of all airborne particulate matter including TB bacteria by the removal and dilution process therefore reducing the risk of contracting TB. However, no single process can totally eliminate all risk. Q: If the rod shaped bacteria enters the filter “width wise”, isn’t it possible for the bacteria to pass right through the filter? A: It would be highly unlikely for this to happen. HEPA filters depend on a capture mechanism known as diffusion in order
