Ionizers (also called static ionizers or static eliminators) are used to eliminate the air and neutralize the static charge on the surfaces of devices. Ionizers work by sending positive and negative ions into the air. These ions can attach to oppositely charged particles in the air and on surfaces. Once the ions reach the surfaces of workstations and equipment, the static charge buildup is neutralized. Some of these particles can also attach to the nearest wall or ceiling.

An ionizer neutralizes static electricity by itself, which is a handy tool if you work with electronics and components. Many electronic components are sensitive to even the smallest amount of static electricity. This tool, along with other electronics workspace essentials, ensures the safety of your components. Ionizers work in small spaces or at a single workstation for greater efficiency. Since ionizers remove particles from the air, they are also considered an air purifier and do not require static neutralization when used in the home.

While they are both considered air purifiers, it is difficult to compare them. Only some minor comparisons can be made, but the conclusion is that they can work together. Ionizers do not use filters, so there are no filters to buy and replace, as with regular air purifiers. The downside is that ionizer particles will stick to surfaces and need to be cleaned. You can either wipe the surface, use a charged plate to collect, or use it with a regular air purifier so that the particles are collected in a filter. Ionizers are usually higher powered than regular air purifiers. Some companies combine an ionizer and air purifier in one unit.

One of the big issues with ionizers is that they produce ozone, which is obviously undesirable. That's why the California Air Resources Board (CARB) has set an ozone emission standard of 0.05 parts per million (ppm). Anything that doesn't meet this standard will do more harm. That's why it's best to use an ionizer in conjunction with an air purifier, which will remove particles from the air faster.

To determine ozone emissions, we use the 9110-NO benchtop ionizer from SCS as an example:

As you can see, the ozone level of 9110-NO is less than 0.05 ppm.

There are several different types of ionizers available, and they are suitable for different situations.

• Benchtop Ionizers - The 9110-NO from SCS above is a standard benchtop ionizer for workstations. They will neutralize static on the desk and any tools or equipment. They are not suitable for full-sized rooms. Benchtop ionizers also come in portable or wall-mounted models.

• Hanging Ionizers Hanging ionizers are designed to be placed on top of a workstation or used as an ion shower into a room. These ionizers are common in many electronics labs; when a worker comes in, the ionizer is used to spray ions over them, neutralizing the static on their clothing and sending the particles to the ground.

• Ionizer Air Gun - As the name suggests, it shoots ionized air where it is needed.

• Base-mounted ionizers - used in automated production lines to neutralize areas where sensitive components pass through. Panasonic's ER- X032 ionizer provides clear pictures of how it works.