Analysis of the physical and microbiocidal characteristics of an emerging and innovative UV disinfection technology. Issue 1 (3rd December 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Messina, Gabriele; Amodeo, Davide; Corazza, Alessio; Nante, Nicola; Cevenini, Gabriele
• Is Part Of: BMJ innovations. Volume 8:Issue 1(2022)
• Page Start: 21
• Page End: 28
• Publication Date: 2021-12-03
• Subjects: environment and public health -- health services research -- infections; Medicine -- Research -- Periodicals; 610.72
• DOI: 10.1136/bmjinnov-2021-000790
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2055-8074

Abstract

Abstract : Introduction: Surface disinfection is one of the key points to reduce the risk of transmission both in healthcare and other public spaces. A novel UV-chip disinfection technology is presented. Technological, photonic and microbiocidal characteristics are evaluated taking as reference an ultraviolet-C (UV-C) LED source of equivalent radiant power. Methods: The UV chip has a circular radiating surface with a diameter of 1.3 cm, emitting UV cold light at about 5 mW and driven current of about 80 µA. Four bacterial strains were used to conduct the microbiological tests at 4°C and 60°C to evaluate the bactericidal performance of the two technologies under the same operating conditions. Results: Spectral differences were found between the UV-C LED and the chip, with an emission curve strictly around 280 nm and a broader band centred around 264 nm, respectively. Between-technology microbiological inactivation levels were comparable, achieving total abatement (99.999%) in 8 min at 7.5 cm. Discussion: The UV chip exhibits unique properties that make it applicable in some specific contexts, where UV-C LEDs present the most critical issues. Besides, it is portable and exhibits a broad spectrum of UV wavelengths with a peak where the maximum microbiocidal efficacy occurs. Important issues to be addressed to improve this technology are the high voltage management and the too low energy efficiency. Conclusion: This cold emission technology is virtually unaffected by changes in ambient temperature and is particularly useful in short-distance applications. Recent developments in technology are moving towards a progressive increase in the chip's radiant power.