LG Electronics is set to launch a new product capable of eliminating 99% of avian influenza viruses in the air, thanks to a special filter coated with an extract from traditional Korean Kimchi.
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| Actress Lee Young-ae introduces LG’s new air conditioner. (Photo: The Korea Times, VNN) |
The H5N1 air conditioner belongs to the Neo Plasma Plus generation and is named “Anti-A.I. Aircon“. It features a special filter coated with Leuconostoc citreum extract derived from kimchi. “Tests have shown that this filter can neutralize strains of the avian influenza virus,” confirmed Seo Seok-jang, head of LG Electronics’ air conditioning research department.
Seo stated that research on designing a virus-eliminating air conditioner began two years ago, and they are finalizing the technology ownership procedures. Recently, the product was certified by the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences for its ability to eliminate up to 99% of H5N1 virus within just 30 minutes.
In addition to the special filter, the Neo Plasma Plus air conditioner is equipped with effective layers of filtration using natural antibacterial agents extracted from the fish mint plant. Notably, the filter utilizes nano-sized silver ions that can eliminate hazardous chemical compounds such as formaldehyde and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Furthermore, there is a Plasma filter that uses high voltage to thoroughly remove ultra-fine particulate matter from the air.
At ambient temperatures, the H5N1 virus can survive for up to 14 days in the air or in small dust particles. Last year, a study by Seoul National University in South Korea showed that kimchi and fermented foods could effectively combat avian influenza in poultry. However, there is currently no evidence of its effects on humans.
The H5N1 air conditioner is expected to hit the market in early 2006, with a special focus on Southeast Asia, which is heavily affected by the avian flu outbreak. The product is anticipated to be available in Vietnam by early March.
D.S. (according to The Korea Times)
