Understand the facts about UV-C LEDs and germicidal ...

The first question we are generally asked is whether UV-C radiation can kill SARS-CoV-2. The fact is that a virus is not technically alive, so killing it is not the goal. Rather, we seek a technology that canor suppress the virus. And yes, UV-C radiation applied correctly can deactivate the coronavirus.

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“Applied correctly” is the key phrase. The application depends on whether you seek to disinfect a surface, water, or air. Moreover, the germicidal efficacy depends on UV-C dosage. Dosage is determined by the radiometric power or watts delivered by a UV-C source, the distance from the target, and the duration of UV-C exposure. Distance is easily understood if, for instance, you want to disinfect a surface. In an air disinfection application, such as within an HVAC air duct, the distance would not be easy to estimate, as air disinfection can happen along the length of the duct through which UV-C radiation, along with the air, passes. Distance becomes an even more complex issue were you to try and use a UV-C source to disinfect all of the air in a room. Digging into the details, UV-C irradiance is measured in watts per unit area (typically W/cm² in the US) and dose is calculated by multiplying the irradiance by the exposure time in seconds to get energy per unit area [typically joules (J)/cm²].

Exploring UV-C sources, LEDs are emerging as credible alternatives to traditional mercury-discharge lamps across various UV-C applications. Just like their visible-light counterparts, UV-C LEDs initially face hurdles in replacing established sources. Generally, UV-C LEDs are characterized by higher costs, lower output power, and shorter lifespans. Nevertheless, it is anticipated that LED manufacturers will address these issues over time.

However, LEDs are viable in some UV-C applications. The technology is already used embedded inside various water-disinfection systems ranging from a home kitchen faucet to pumps for water processing to water supply for soda dispensers. Indeed, mercury lamps would be tough to deploy in such applications due to size and potential contaminant concerns.

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Most of the UV-C systems that have been in the news of late, however, are more focused on surface or air disinfection. And most of those systems use legacy lamps. For example, LEDs Magazine covered a United Airlines application for disinfecting surfaces in the jet cockpit and a JetBlue application that uses robots to disinfect the passenger cabin of a jet.

The efficacy of UV-C radiation in the disinfection of surfaces, air, and water hinges on the appropriate application. The germicidal effectiveness depends on several factors: the UV-C dose defined by the power output, the distance between the source and the target, and the exposure duration. For surface disinfection, distance is straightforward to manage. However, in air purification systems, such as those in HVAC ducts, measuring distance becomes more complex as disinfection occurs along the duct's length. Attempts to disinfect an entire room present further challenges in maintaining an effective distance for UV-C exposure. UV-C irradiance, typically measured in watts per square centimeter, and the dosage, calculated as irradiance multiplied by exposure duration in seconds, determine the energy applied per unit area.

LED technology is advancing in UV-C applications, presenting an alternative to mercury lamps. Early visible-light LEDs encountered challenges in replacing existing sources, and UV-C LEDs are currently undergoing a similar evolution. Generally, UV-C LEDs have higher costs, lower output power, and shorter lifespans compared to traditional lamps. It is expected that LED manufacturers will gradually overcome these challenges.

Despite these challenges, UV-C LEDs are proving useful in certain areas. They are incorporated into various water-purification systems, including home kitchen faucets, water processing pumps, and soda dispensers' water supplies. The compact size and minimal contamination risk of LEDs make them preferable for these applications over mercury lamps.

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Recent developments in UV-C disinfection predominantly focus on surfaces and air. Traditional UV-C lamps are predominant in these systems. For instance, LEDs Magazine reported on United Airlines using UV-C for cockpit surface disinfection, and JetBlue utilizing robotic systems to sanitize passenger cabins.

Additional Insights and FAQs

Alongside understanding the basic principles of UV-C disinfection, several other factors warrant consideration. For instance, when using UV-C systems, safety measures are crucial to prevent harmful exposure to humans. UV-C radiation can be hazardous, necessitating protective equipment and stringent operational protocols.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Can UV-C disinfection be used on food?

A: Yes, UV-C technology can disinfect food surfaces, destroying bacteria and viruses without chemical residues. However, it should be applied correctly to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Q: How long does UV-C exposure take to neutralize pathogens?

A: The required exposure time varies based on the UV-C dosage and the type of microorganism. Higher doses and longer exposure generally result in more effective disinfection.

Q: Are UV-C LEDs better than mercury lamps?

A: While UV-C LEDs have advantages such as being environmentally friendly and having no mercury content, they currently face challenges like higher costs and shorter lifespans. Ongoing advancements are expected to improve their performance and reduce limitations.

For the latest updates and expert advice on UV-C technology, visit UVDF.