our patented dry fog mold remediation process
step one: The InstaPURE Process™
Understanding the Chemistry of the InstaPURE Process™.The first step of Pure Maintenance’s three-step process is called the “InstaPURE Process™”. The InstaPURE Process™ is a treatment that addresses mold on the hard, non-porous surfaces it reaches. Pure Maintenance does not make claims about bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens.
- Peracetic acid is also known as peroxyacetic acid or PAA.
- The EPA first registered peracetic acid as an antimicrobial in 1985.
- Use sites of PAA include agricultural premises, food establishments, medical facilities, and homes. It is also registered for use in dairy and cheese processing plants, food processing equipment, and pasteurizers in breweries, wineries, and beverage plants.
- Peracetic acid is a well-studied compound that breaks down into water, oxygen, and acetic acid (vinegar) after use.
- The InstaPURE Process™ vapor acts on mold by breaking down its cell structure (lysis).
- Acting on mold by lysis prevents cells or spores from developing resistant defense mechanisms.
- This process, when applied correctly, dramatically increases vapor pressure in the space. To compare, hydrogen peroxide vapor (HPV) creates very little vapor pressure. As such, HPV is limited in how effectively it reaches mold on surfaces in cracks and crevices of a home or facility, or on high surfaces.
- Pure Maintenance’s treatment uses hydrogen peroxide and peracetic acid. The active component, peracetic acid, is included on the EPA Safer Chemical Ingredients List, and after the treatment cycle it breaks down into water, oxygen, and vinegar.
- The InstaPURE Process™ breaks down to oxygen, water, and acetic acid. Re-entry to the treated spaces is usually allowed within 2 hours post-treatment. We directly measure the PAA vapor and hydrogen peroxide vapor with a gas-sensing direct measurement device to ensure PPM levels are at or below 0.5 and 0.4 respectively, confirming the safety of re-entry into the space.
Understanding the Science
The Synergistic Behavior Between Acetic Acid and Hydrogen Peroxide.Peracetic acid solutions also contain hydrogen peroxide. The prevailing view is that the predominant action comes from peracetic acid, which is more reactive than hydrogen peroxide, especially at low concentrations. Several research studies have argued that there are virtually no synergistic effects between the PAA and hydrogen peroxide. However, several investigations suggest there may be enhanced efficiency due to a potential synergy between PAA and hydrogen peroxide. They compared solutions containing “pure” PAA, hydrogen peroxide only, and commercially available combinations of both. The results suggest the kinetic model of combined PAA and hydrogen peroxide action occurs in a staged process that includes sensitization, catalase attack, and irreversible attack leading to lysis. PAA must first initiate the attack on the cell, damaging the protective systems before the hydrogen peroxide can contribute. Once the catalase within the cell is inhibited by PAA, the hydroxyl radical can rapidly damage the cell.
*Pre-cleaning of all surfaces is required before any treatments. Post treatment cleaning protocols should remain a best practice.
*Pre-cleaning of all surfaces is required before any treatments. Post treatment cleaning protocols should remain a best practice.
Step Two: the everPURE Process™
The second step in the Pure Maintenance system is called The EverPURE Process™. In this process, we spray Goldshield 5® onto select surfaces. Goldshield 5® is a microbiostatic agent registered with the California Department of Pesticide Regulation and the EPA. A microbiostatic agent inhibits the growth of odor-causing bacteria, bacteria that cause staining and discoloration, fungi (mold and mildew), and algae. This product does not protect users or others against food-borne or disease-causing bacteria. The EverPURE Process™ creates an invisible barrier that inhibits the growth of odor-causing bacteria, bacteria that cause staining and discoloration, fungi (mold and mildew), and algae for up to three months on treated surfaces. If necessary or as a precaution, you can reapply Goldshield 5® every three months.
Pre-cleaning is required before any application of Goldshield 5 ©. Surface cleaning to remove particulates (such as dust, grime, etc.) is necessary to be effective. As such, once the EverPURE Process™ is complete in your space, we recommend that post treatment you continue with your routine best practice high level cleaning protocol to ensure the barrier’s effectiveness is maintained.
