Sahabat Nanotech

Question No 1

Will an air purifier remove cigarette smoke?

I'm thinking about buying an air purifier. Do any of them work on cigarette smoke?

 

Answer

from Richard D. Hurt, M.D. ( Mayo Clinic )

If you're considering buying an air purifier, you have a multitude of choices. But if you want an air purifier that will eliminate cigarette smoke, you're out of luck. Tobacco smoke particles are so energized that even the most efficient ventilation systems will not reduce the exposure. Further, most air purifiers, also called air cleaners, are not designed to remove gaseous pollutants, which are a major component of cigarette smoke. 

Mechanical air filters, such as HEPA filters, and electronic air cleaners, such as ionizers, target particles, but tobacco smoke particles are designed to be small enough to be inhaled into the outer reaches of the lungs and, thus, are not trapped by such devices. Other air cleaners generate ozone, which is actually a lung irritant. At levels that don't exceed public health standards, ozone has little ability to remove air contaminants such as cigarette smoke.
The best way to protect nonsmokers from secondhand smoke is to not allow smoking in your home. If you smoke, this is another good reason to stop. 


 

Question No 2

Air fresheners: Are continuous scents harmful?

Is it safe to breathe the chemicals emitted by continuous air fresheners over long periods?

 

Answer

from James T. Li, M.D. ( Mayo Clinic )

Occasional exposure to air fresheners isn't likely to cause problems, as long as the products are used as directed. However, the chemicals in air fresheners may irritate your eyes, skin and throat. In addition, long-term use of air fresheners may contribute to indoor pollution — which can sometimes trigger asthma and other lung problems.
If you have asthma or other lung problems or you're concerned about the chemicals emitted by air fresheners, consider other options to freshen the air in your home. For example:

• Keep your home clean.
• Make sure your home is properly ventilated.
• Sprinkle baking soda in the bottom of your wastebaskets.
• Grind fresh lemon slices in the garbage disposal.
• Take out the trash promptly.
• Repair any leaks in the roof or basement.

If you choose to use continuous air fresheners, carefully follow the package directions.

Reference :   Mayoclinic