Hydroxyl Generator

Most UK restoration technicians are not aware of the usage of a Hydroxyl generator and this article is designed to go a little more in-depth to show how to use the machines in a safe and sensible way

They are promoted as an effective method to clean indoor air pollution and odours, whilst having the ability to be used whilst working in the same area.

A hydroxyl generator uses UV-C radiation technology, which replicates what happens in nature when the sun’s ultraviolet rays break apart water vapor. The process creates hydroxyl radicals (OH) that decompose chemicals in the air. The hydroxyls break down and inactivate odours, VOCs, viruses and bacteria, and other microorganisms.

Hydroxyl radicals (OH) are oxidants that hold a neutral charge.

As they effectively and rapidly decompose chemicals in the air, hydroxyl radicals are sometimes called “nature’s broom.” They are vital to keeping the Earth’s atmosphere free of harmful compounds.

That power can also be harnessed for indoor spaces through hydroxyl generators. The generators can target and eliminate a wide range of odours—reacting with up to 5,000 different compounds and chemicals—including fungi, mould, VOCs, viruses, and bacteria.

What is a Hydroxyl generator used for?

A hydroxyl generator is a machine that uses UV-C to remove odours, virus particles, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) , and bacteria particles from the air. You simply need to plug in and turn on the hydroxyl machine and it will go to work immediately, cleaning the air.

While hydroxyl radicals have an extremely short half-life, the machines have been designed to create a chain reaction, where other radicals are formed so they can enter hard-to-reach spots for more extensive cleaning.

These radicals are among the most powerful oxidants in the world (behind fluorine), making them ideal for spaces that require deep cleaning.

How does a Hydroxyl generator work?

The generator process is simple:

The Hydroxyl machine draws air into the filter via a fan
The air is then charged with the UV-C light. The air must remain in the chamber for a short time. Once released, it is attracted to certain particulates in the air.
The particulates, such as water vapor, latch onto odours, VOCs, viruses, and bacteria.
The molecule is then neutralise and the neutralised molecule falls to the ground.

Benefits of a Hydroxyl Generator

Improving Indoor Air Quality and Eliminating Odours

Hydroxyl generators have gained popularity as effective tools for improving indoor air quality and eliminating odors in various settings. Using advanced technology, these generators produce hydroxyl radicals, which are highly reactive molecules capable of neutralizing airborne contaminants and unpleasant odors. In this article, we will explore the benefits of hydroxyl generators and their significance in creating a healthier and more pleasant indoor environment.

Odour Elimination: One of the primary benefits of hydroxyl generators is their ability to eliminate a wide range of odours. Unlike traditional methods that simply mask odours with fragrances, hydroxyl generators neutralize odorous molecules at the molecular level. Hydroxyl radicals react with volatile organic compounds (VOCs), bacteria, mould, and other odour-causing substances, breaking them down and eliminating the source of the odour. This makes hydroxyl generators highly effective in addressing persistent odours caused by smoke, pet urine, cooking, mildew, and more.
Improved Indoor Air Quality: Hydroxyl generators significantly improve indoor air quality by removing harmful pollutants and allergens from the air. Hydroxyl radicals react with and break down VOCs, mould spores, bacteria, viruses, and other airborne contaminants, rendering them harmless. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with respiratory conditions, allergies, or sensitivities to airborne particles. By reducing the presence of these pollutants, hydroxyl generators create a healthier and safer environment for occupants.
Non-Toxic and Safe: Hydroxyl generators offer a non-toxic and safe solution for indoor air purification. Unlike some traditional air purifying methods that use chemicals or ozone, hydroxyl generators produce hydroxyl radicals naturally, without the use of harmful substances. Hydroxyl radicals are considered safe for humans, animals, and plants, making hydroxyl generators suitable for use in homes, offices, healthcare facilities, and other sensitive environments.
Versatility and Ease of Use: Hydroxyl generators are versatile and can be used in various spaces and situations. They are commonly employed in residential properties, commercial buildings, hotels, gyms, schools, hospitals, and more. Hydroxyl generators come in different sizes and configurations, allowing users to select the appropriate model based on the specific needs of the environment. They are typically portable and easy to use, requiring minimal setup and maintenance.
Restoration and Remediation: Hydroxyl generators are particularly valuable in restoration and remediation projects. After water damage incidents or mould infestations, hydroxyl generators can aid in the restoration process by eliminating odours, preventing the growth of mould and bacteria, and purifying the air. This accelerates the overall remediation process, reduces the risk of further damage, and helps restore a healthy living or working environment.
Energy Efficient: Hydroxyl generators are energy-efficient devices. They consume minimal energy while providing continuous air purification and odour elimination. This makes them a cost-effective solution for long-term use, allowing users to maintain a clean and fresh indoor environment without significant energy expenses.

Hydroxyl generators offer numerous benefits for improving indoor air quality and eliminating odours. Their ability to neutralize odorous molecules and remove harmful pollutants makes them highly effective in creating healthier, safer, and more pleasant indoor environments. With their non-toxic nature, versatility, and energy efficiency, hydroxyl generators have become valuable tools in residential, commercial, and remediation settings. By harnessing the power of hydroxyl radicals, these generators contribute to a cleaner and fresher indoor air experience for everyone.

Hydroxyl Generator pros and cons

The power of hydroxyl radicals is real and hydroxyl generators have undergone vigorous scientific testing to prove their effectiveness.

Pro’s

Hydroxyl Generator side effects really are negligible and are safe to use whilst working in the area.

Third parties and the FDA have assessed the effectiveness of hydroxyl generators. They concluded that the number of hydroxyl radicals produced, could safely and effectively remove VOCs and odours.

Hydroyxl generators using the patented technology will be effective with humidity as low as 5% ,blowing away the myth that they need 60% humidity to work effectively. Restoration technicians should never have to add humidity for their hydroxyl generators to work

A large fan is NOT required to help move the radicals around the area being treated, due to the patented technology that uses a chain reaction called the cascade effect. This creates new hydroxyl radicals throughout the space to eliminate odours and VOCs—even in hard-to-reach places.

Con’s

The treatment of a room using hydroxyl cleaning takes a longer period of time and has a limited effect on surface contamination.

Machines tend to be more expensive than an ozone generator

How to use an Ozone Generator

Products Available

Sylvan HX-3000 Hydroxyl Generator

When hydroxyl radicals come in contact with air contaminates, they get neutralized, producing a byproduct of fresh O2 and a bit of H20 (oxygen and water)
Sylvan’s light commercial duty Hydroxly machine is unique to other machines on the market because of the selectable Ozone (3500mg/hr) function.
Ozonater with Timer – 1 hour with Hold Function.
The size of this air purifier machine: 8 1/4″ x 7″ x 6″. Net Weight 5lbs.

OdorStop OS3000H Hydroxyl Generator

Perfect for deodorizing and eliminating odors in extra-large occupied spaces such as locker rooms, banquet halls, hotel suites, apartments, offices, restaurants, and commercial properties
It will eliminate even the most severe odors caused by tobacco, smoke, pets, water and flood damage and more
Features an amazing 500CFM blower, a 12-hour timer with a hold option, 2 high output UV bulbs, TiO2, and a charcoal filter
It comes ready to use with no assembly required and the unique design also allows the UV bulbs and filters to be cleaned without taking the unit apart