Bethlehem’s LifeAire recognized for role in fighting COVID-19

Listen to this article

Another Lehigh Valley company is being recognized by the state for adapting its technology to help in the fight against COVID-19.

LifeAire Systems of Bethlehem was originally formed more than 10 years ago to create an air purification system for in vitro fertilization. Now its air purification systems are being used by hospitals and health care systems and is being transformed into a tool against COVID-19.

In addition to hospitals and senior living facilities using the system to reduce infections, illness, and length of stay, LifeAire has applied its technology to protect dental practices, commercial office spaces, transportation and educational facilities from COVID-19.

LifeAire also used its technology to develop a portable, rapid decontamination unit for N95 masks that kills COVID-19 and other healthcare pathogens within all layers of the mask. More than 1,650 masks can be decontaminated in one day, helping with PPE shortages and reducing overall costs.

Tuesday, it was recognized as part of the state DCED’s “Innovating to Recovery” series.

Kathryn Worrilow, founder and CEO of LifeAire Systems, was joined by DCED’s Deputy Secretary of Technology and Innovation, Steve D’Ettorre, and representatives from Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Northeastern Pennsylvania, where her firm was launched.

“Through the Ben Franklin Technology Partners, DCED supports early-stage technology companies and established manufacturers as they help us innovate to recovery from the coronavirus,” said D’Ettorre. “LifeAire is an outstanding example of a young company that has responded swiftly and effectively to this pandemic.”

Worrilow said she was glad that her product could be adapted to fight the pandemic.

“We developed the LifeAire System to solve a significant problem that impacted patient care – the presence of infectious airborne pathogens,” said Worrilow. “We are thrilled that our flagship technology is effective in protecting front-line workers and the general population during the pandemic.”

Earlier this year, DCED announced funding opportunities to support technology-based companies impacted by COVID-19, including the disbursement of $1 million through the Ben Franklin Technology Development Authority to each of the four regional BFTPs.

Each BFTP then matched this funding with an additional $1 million and distributed the funding to eligible projects.

LifeAire received $100,000 to continue the development of its products.

“LifeAire’s ability to pivot quickly in applying its technology to address the pandemic is emblematic of early-stage technology firms,” said Doug Engler, BFTP/NEP Lehigh Valley regional manager. “We are pleased to support LifeAire with funding, business and technical support, and key introductions to accelerate its success.”