Building Materials Librarian
Resources
Air Filtration for HVAC Systems
- Aerosols and Micro-droplets: HVAC Approaches During COVID-19Guidelines for using existing and next generation HVAC systems to reduce transmission of COVID-19 from BuildingGreen.
- FAQ about Germicidal Ultraviolet Lighting and its Use on the spread of Infectious DiseaseArticle from the Illuminating Engineering Society containing answers to frequently asked questions on the abilities and limitations of Germicidal Ultraviolet light on the spread of disease
General Information
General articles discussing use of antimicrobials and product categories that may see increased use as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic
- Bill Walsh: Covid-19 Highlights Importance of Equity in Safe Building MaterialsInterview discussing concerns with antimicrobial building materials and emphasizing that cleaning with simple soaps can be more effective at disinfecting surfaces than other more elaborate strategies.
- Understanding Antimicrobial Ingredients in Building MaterialsArchitecture Firm Perkins & Will and Healthy Building Network providing a paper expressing caution about manufacturer claims of antimicrobial additives in furnishings and interior finishes.
- Antiviral Surfaces and Coatings and their Mechanisms of ActionOverview of the different options available in anti-viral material coatings and how they work. Offers critiques of current research and suggests future areas of exploration.
Touchless Controls
While the transmission of COVID-19 is predominately through airborne droplets, designers will be increasingly aware of reducing "high-touch" surfaces to reduce spread of viruses and bacteria going forward.
- Faucets That Combat Infection Without Wasting WaterReview of a touchless water faucet systems and considerations to consider when reducing water-borne diseases such as legionella.
Furniture
See below for furniture collections aimed at healthcare and designed for easy cleaning from major manufacturers including HON, Herman Miller, and National Business Furniture.