Objective

To evaluate the efficacy of the Defend 1050 at reducing SARS-CoV-2, the virus causing COVID-19.

Methodology

The challenge pathogen, SARS-CoV-2 USA-CA1/2020, was used for testing the efficacy of the Defend 1050. The bioaerosol efficacy challenge was completed in three distinct trials with the active pathogen to create a baseline of data. The Defend 1050 was placed in the same position for each viral challenge and operated in the same manner.

Two control tests were conducted without the Defend 1050 in the testing chamber. The control tests were used for the comparative baseline to assess the viral reduction when the Defend 1050 was operated in the challenge trials, to enable net reduction calculations to be made. The device was run at maximum speed (5).

Results

The Defend 1050 achieved a 4.53 log10 reduction, which equates to a 99.997% percentage reduction, in 30 minutes. The live SARS-CoV-2 virus was not detectable after 30 minutes.

Conclusion

The Defend 1050 performed to manufacturer specifications and demonstrated a dramatic reduction of active virus after 30 minutes of exposure in aerosol form.

Every effort was made to simulate a real-life environment in the chamber while taking into consideration the special precautions needed when working with a Biosafety Level 3 Pathogen. Overall, the Defend 1050 device showed substantial efficacy in the removal of SARS-CoV-2 USA-CA1/2020 out of the breathable air.