Jodhpur: Researchers at IIT Jodhpur have created the "CODE" device, which stands for Cold-plasma Detergent in Environment, to improve indoor air quality significantly. This innovative device has undergone extensive testing and can deactivate over 99.99% of harmful pathogens, ensuring healthier indoor air.Indoor air pollution is a significant concern, with indoor air often containing 2-5 times more pollution than outdoor air. Additionally, the risk of airborne pathogen infections is a pressing issue, given the appearance of new bacteria and viruses each year, often leading to epidemics or pandemics. Traditional indoor air purifiers struggle to effectively handle long-lasting pathogens and small aerosols.To address these challenges, Dr. Ram Prakash, Dr. Ambesh Dixit, Mr. Ramavtar Jangra, and Ms. Kiran Ahlawat from the Department of Physics at IIT Jodhpur developed the Novel Cold-plasma Detergent in Environment (CODE) device. Their research findings were recently published in the Nature Scientific Reports Journal on June 25, 2023.This groundbreaking technology is the basis for the development of Indoor Air Sterilizers by Divya Plasma Solutions Pvt. Ltd., a startup incubated at IIT Jodhpur Technology Innovation and Start-up Centre (TISC). These sterilizers aim to tackle aerosol transport and infectivity in indoor environments effectively and proactively treat the air where contamination occurs. The technology combines non-equilibrium cold plasma with nano-technology, producing optimal concentrations of negative and positive ions, similar to nature's balance.Key advantages of IITJ's Novel CODE technology for Quality Indoor Air include:

• Production of Cold-plasma Detergent in Environment
• Extended residency time of active ions to deactivate long-lasting pathogens
• Creation of a quasi-neutral electric atmosphere for pathogen disruption
• Low power consumption (average discharge power < 5 W)
• Deactivation of bacteria, molds, and viruses
• Capture of dust and pollen
• Reduction of volatile organic compounds (VoCs)
• Removal of odors

This technology holds immense significance for various indoor spaces, including offices, homes, healthcare facilities, educational institutions, shopping malls, and more. It promises to provide a superior indoor environment and can be integrated into existing systems, such as ducts, air conditioning, and coolers.Speaking about the research, Prof. Ram Prakash expressed pride in the project's success and its potential to reduce cross-contamination, especially in healthcare settings. Prof. Ambesh Dixit echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the technology's broader applications in public spaces.In conclusion, the IIT Jodhpur research team's CODE device represents a significant advancement in improving indoor air quality, with the potential to benefit a wide range of indoor environments and enhance public health.