It’s clear that more and more facilities, schools, and businesses are choosing electrostatic spray disinfecting to keep germs at bay – especially the virus that causes Covid-19. Even military bases and airlines have started to use it. But, how exactly does it work? Is it more effective than other methods? Let’s take a deep dive into the the technology behind this method and see how it can help keep you safe.
What Is Electrostatic Spray?
Invented in the 1930s, electrostatic spraying is a method of applying a cleaner, disinfectant, or other liquid. You may be familiar with its other applications, like paint sprayers for cars or furniture. It is essentially the process of turning a liquid into aerosols (very small particles suspended in air). An electrode inside the sprayer gives a positive charge to each particle so that they are attracted to surfaces. The charging of the particles is the critical difference between electrostatic spray and a spray from a spray bottle, for example. It also produces a finer mist than most other methods, meaning the particles travel further and coat more evenly.
The positively charged mist created by the sprayer clings onto surfaces, objects, and hard to reach areas which are grounded, or negatively charged. The attraction on an atomic level creates a powerful coating, unlike traditional a spray mist. Plus, the charge plays another, less obvious role in dispersal. The mist not only adheres to negatively charged surfaces, but it is actually repelled by surfaces already coated (think about how the poles of magnets interact). The repelled mist is then pushed outward towards more, un-coated surfaces instead.
How Does It Disinfect?
Disinfection occurs when the liquid used in the sprayers is effective against bacteria and viruses. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) keeps a list of disinfectants that work against the virus that causes Covid-19. Electrostatic spray is just the dispersal method – the choice of disinfectant is what determines how effective it will be. Service providers should be well trained in dilution and application of the disinfectants they are using. For protection against, Covid-19 specifically, you must use one of the EPA approved disinfectants against SARS-CoV-2.
How Effective Is It?
The charged mist dispersal from an electrostatic spray system is extremely effective. The particles coat surfaces completely, even in hard to reach areas. It’s an ideal alternative to traditional wiping, which leaves room for error and missed spots. The consistent coverage, when used with an EPA approved disinfectant, makes this method up to 8 times more effective than wiping and takes roughly half the time.
Why Should I Choose It?
Electrostatic disinfecting spray service is one of the most convenient, efficient, and effective choices you can make for your facility. Regular service can provide you and your staff the peace of mind that your place of work is as clean as possible. Because we work so quickly, it may be more affordable than you think. It takes less time than traditional janitorial services, which makes it a cost effective solution for high quality disinfecting. Virus Assassins offers spray service for businesses, restaurants, medical facilities, schools, and more. If you have any questions about our service or would like to get a quote, contact us today!