Sanyo, a leading provider of energy, environment and lifestyle technologies, has launched its 'Virus Washer' in the Middle East,  which it claims is highly effective against the new H1N1 influenza virus.

Sanyo says that it is the world's first air purifier system that is powered by electrolysed water technology.

Sanyo further revealed that a joint research with Gunma Prefectural Institute of Public Health and Environmental Sciences, an advanced research institution recognised by the Japanese Government, showed that its Virus Washer technology is highly effective in suppressing the infectivity of the new H1N1 influenza virus.

Covering spaces up to 300 cubic metres, the Sanyo Virus Washer has been developed to remove more than 99 per cent of airborne viruses as well as bacteria, mould, pollen, dust mite faeces and shells, while eliminating odours caused by tobacco and pets.

Sanyo's electrolysed water technology works by electrolysing tap water containing chloride ions to generate and maintain a high concentration of hypochlorous acid and hydroxyl radicals, which are two different types of active oxygen species that destroy the spikes (viral protein) on the surface of viruses, effectively preventing infection.

'The emergence of the H1N1 viral strain across several countries has once again underscored the health risks we all face on a daily basis. With the launch of our Virus Washer, it is our vision to create a new layer of defence for ordinary people, especially children who are particularly prone to the new virus,' said Takeshi Hirao, vice president of Sanyo Electric Company, Japan and chairman of Sanyo Gulf.

'Sanyo's electrolysed water technology is actually a tried and tested system that has already been successfully implemented in Sanyo's swimming pool sterilisation systems and in our zero-detergent washing machines,' added Hirao.

In addition to its powerful ability to disinfect, suppress viruses and deodorise, the Sanyo Virus Washer also features a simple and easy-to-use control panel with an automatic drainage mechanism to easily dispose water in the drainage tank.

The Virus Washer is also equipped with sensors and variable airflow controls to control humidity, a clog-resistant honeycomb as a disinfectant element, a Treated Air Volume indicator, an auto louver to adjust airflow direction and prevent dust intake, and a pre-filter device to increase the effectiveness against pollen.-TradeArabia News Service