Smart windows can significantly reduce indoor pathogens

Sunlight through smart windows can nearly completely disinfect surfaces in 24 hours, while still blocking harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, according to a new study from UBC's Okanagan campus

Dr.

In their darkest state, smart windows block more than 99.

In contrast, traditional blinds block nearly all sunlight and prevent surfaces from sanitizing

"We know that sunlight kills bacteria and fungi," she said

The pandemic has heightened concerns about how construction may affect the health of people indoors

"Our buildings need to go beyond sustainable and smart to become healthy and safe environments first," said Dr.

This research was jointly funded by View Inc.

The findings are particularly important for laboratories and health care facilities

Extensive research has shown that pathogenic bacteria and fungi can persist on inanimate surfaces, leading to the spread of disease

"Increased antimicrobial resistance, antibiotic treatment and health-care-associated infections are no longer the silver bullet, causing thousands of deaths in the United States each year," said Dr.

Earlier today, Dr Pakpour presented her findings at the International Conference on Healthy Buildings organised by the International Society for Indoor Air Quality and Climate

"Passive environmental strategies, such as letting sunlight into windows without blinds, can help reduce the risk of infection," said Dr.

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The effect of indoor daylight spectrum and intensity on viability of indoor pathogens on different surface materials