A REVOLUTIONARY, new plasterboard that actively removes airborne pollution, or volatile organic compounds (VOCs), from indoor air has now been launched by Abu Dhabi-based dry lining market leader Gyproc Middle East.

New Gyproc Activ’Air boards look like standard plasterboards but incorporate a special active pollution-absorbing technology in their high-performance gypsum core that removes pollutants and leaves indoor air healthier for building occupants.

“The secret lies in a patented mineral-based additive that ‘captures’ volatile organic compounds in polluted air and converts them into harmless inert aldehyde compounds,” says a spokesman for the UAE-based company. “In tests, the technology has been proved to remove up to 70 per cent of aldehydes and other pollutants typically present in indoor air.”

He continues: “Research has shown that pollutants in indoor air are a common cause of nose and eye ailments, and can lead to breathing problems, headaches and fatigue in school children, office workers and others who spend significant time indoors.

“Installing Activ’Air linings in new buildings will help to prevent a build-up of polluted air and improve health, attention span and productivity of occupants.”

Once installed, the inherently environment-friendly Activ’Air linings require no maintenance and will continue to work throughout the life of the building. They, therefore, provide a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to traditional powered air filters, which are not only expensive to run, but need to be regularly maintained to retain their efficiency, he says.

The new Activ’Air technology is also available in a range of Gyptone and Rigitone perforated acoustic ceiling tiles and boards, for applications where modern, stylish appearance and excellent acoustics are required, in addition to airborne pollution control. And, where added performance is required, Activ’Air technology can be applied to Gyproc’s full range of performance boards, providing high levels of moisture, moisture- and mould-, fire- and impact-resistance, as well as the standard Activ’Air board format.

Gyproc’s technical development manager Jason Hird says: “Activ’Air technology is one of the most important developments in building linings for many years, and could make a significant impact on the design of Middle East buildings. Initial discussions with building owners and developers have shown there is significant interest for these products in the education and healthcare sectors, as well as from designers looking to achieve high standards of sustainability and environmental performance.”