Air ionization methods

A method of removing contaminants from an airstream via an ionization system comprising:

• (i) an ion generator, (ii) an ozone removal assembly containing a catalyst for removal of ozone from the air, wherein the ion generator is disposed at least partially within the ozone removal assembly and there is an airspace between the ion generator and the ozone removal assembly, (iii) a control system that measures an amount of particulate in the air and energizes the ion generator based at least in part on the measured amount of particulate in the air;
• and the ion generator comprises:
• (iv) a stainless steel ion dispenser configured to receive electrical current responsive to operation of the control system, (v) an inner electrode electrically coupled to the ion dispenser, the inner electrode comprising a perforated aluminum sheet, (vi) a glass tube disposed at least partially around the inner electrode, and (vii) an outer electrode disposed at least partially around the glass tube, the outer electrode comprising a tubular stainless steel mesh screen, the method comprising the steps of:
• (a) activating the ion generator of the ionization system to generate negative ions, wherein the ion generator generates more negative ions than positive ions, the ion generator disposed at least partially within an HVAC duct;
• (b) operating a fan to force air to pass by the ion generator and acquire negative ions;
• and
• (c) passing the air through the ozone removal catalyst at least partially surrounding the ion generator to remove ozone from the air.