I learned that the Sharp air purifiers' HEPA filters have an Apatite component to it that apparently provides antibacterial properties to protect the filters from microbial accumulation. Is Apatite a relatively "safe" material to use for an air filter, i.e. is it safe for the resident who is breathing air that comes through the filter? Apatite (a very general term) is usually made up of phosphorus and calcium, but some variants (ie. arsenates like mimemite) may contain arsenic. Could this be a health issue for users? Would the filters use arsenic-based variants in the first place, or are other forms more prevalent and likely to be used in medical/industrial applications?
2007-05-28 03:07:33 · 1 answers · asked by Roger L 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Chemistry
Arsenic is present in some forms of Apatite as an impurity and is thoroughly removed before it is used.
2007-05-28 05:16:06 · answer #1 · answered by ag_iitkgp 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋