Particulates:- dust, dander, pollen, organic clumps.
Usually handled by air pollution.
Filters must be maintained to be effective.
Dust:- Minute solid particles less than 500 micrometers. Composition changes by season.
Dander:- material shade from the body of animals. Can be very aggressive allergen.
Pollen:- Released by certain plant species. Lightweight and small, Stayed air born for extended periods of time.
Microbial:- Bacteria , viruses, and mold spores. Usually handled by UV tube. But UV are effective only on surfaces.
Bacteria:- Single Cell organism. Self-contained and can reproduce without a host. Examples;- MRSA, E-coli, Staph, Strep, etc.
Viruses:- Minimal structure of genetic material and protein. Can only be seen with an electron microscope. Example:- Norwalk, SARS, Avian Flu, etc.
Mold spores:- Air born single cell organism. Grows into mold as soon as conditions permit. Causes allergic reactions, asthma episodes, irritations, infections, sinus, congestion problems,
Gases:- VOC(Volatile Organic Compounds), Chemical compounds and odors, can be observed by dense carbon filter for odor. Can be handled with various technologies. VOCs found in paints, polish, nail polish remover, furniture polish, glue, burning candles, burning stoves, cigarettes, etc. Can causes nose, eyes and throat irritation, nausea, headaches, coordination loos, etc. caused by odorant molecules dissolved in air. Examples:- pet odors, perfumes and food odors.