E!531, SafeUVC, A safe ultraviolet source that is compact.

Purpose and goal:

The aim of the project is to develop an efficient far-UVC (210 nm) light source. Light at this wavelength is considered safe for humans, while it effectively kills bacteria and deactivates viruses. It can be generated efficiently by high energy electron induced radiation.

Therefore, we aim to develop a light source that consists of an effective field emission cathode array as a source of electrons. The electrons will be accelerated in vacuum to an anode by a high electrostatic field. The anode material is optimized to generate the far-UVC radiation with high efficiency.

Expected results and effects:

This project aims at providing sustainable, compact, and affordable light source components for Far-UVC. The project is based on LightLab´s technology for UVC Field Emission Devices, where a new light emitting anode technique is developed. With a significant level of innovation and adaptations, it should be regarded as a new product rather than an improvement of an existing one.

This new architecture significantly reduces the cost, size, weight, and potentially operating power of Far-UVC devices, also a new emerging market segment within UV disinfection is addressed. Approach and implementation:

This project is fundamentally built on the development of a Far-UVC emitting material (AlN) by CSEM (sputtering) and EFPL (epitaxial growth), which is to be implemented into LightLab´s existing UVC disinfection technology. Aarhus University will validate the germicidal function of the Safe UVC prototype. UVL A/S will be the coordinator of the project and also the end-user.

They have already invested in the development of Far-UVC products, based on currently existing KrCl light sources, and in establishing a market position, sales and distribution network for the Far-UVC market.