Wearable air purifiers find takers, but experts sound caution: ‘Not effective outdoors’

The article discusses the increasing popularity of wearable air purifiers in Delhi, where the air quality is often severely poor.

• What they are: These purifiers are compact, portable devices (mask-type or worn around the neck) that create a personal clean air zone for the wearer by releasing charged ions to settle fine particulate matter ($\text{PM2.5}$ and smaller) out of the air.

• The Caution: However, experts sound a note of caution. A study by IIT Kanpur found that while these devices worked effectively in controlled, indoor environments (reducing airborne particles by up to 90% in 30 minutes in a small space), their performance in outdoor environments is complex and less effective due to constant wind, air currents, and motion.

• Comparison to N95: Furthermore, experts state that wearable purifiers are often just "cosmetic accessories" and not a complete solution. They do not match the level of protection offered by certified N95 masks, which provide a much better protective barrier.

In short, while they are finding takers, wearable air purifiers are not a substitute for proper respiratory protection against severe outdoor pollution.

Read the full coverage here: Wearable air purifiers find takers, but experts sound caution: ‘Not effective outdoors’