Air Cleaning Technologies for Bus and Rail Applications with Focus on UVGI Utilization

Transport applications represent unique environment from the air cleaning perspective. Specifically, for bus and rail applications, a different approach needs to be applied than for building solutions. The main differences for consideration are occupation density and its change (especially at city public transport), size limitation, environmental conditions and frequent door opening. Lots of different air cleaning products have been introduced to the market during the COVID-19 pandemic, including traditional technologies (UVGI, filtration) as well as many new emerging ones, such as bipolar ionization, dry hydrogen peroxide, PCO, plasma generators, etc. Evaluated data from the producers revealed incomplete or misleading information for most of the investigated air cleaners. The UVGI technology utilization for rail application was further studied, including the risk of material degradation. Selected components from a rail unit were exposed to UVGI corresponding to 8 years operation, test results are presented. Based on review and performed testing, recommended approach for bus and rail applications is described.