UV Solutions

2021 Quarter 1
UV AOP System
for Drinking Water
UV-C and Food Contact Surfaces
UV Dosimeter Badges
FEP for UV Sterilization
Official Publication of the International Ultraviolet Association

June 13–16
June 13–16CA
San Diego,
San Diego, CA
#AWWAACE
#AWWAACE
Join us in person or online Learn more at awwa.org/ace

Join us in person or online Learn more at awwa.org/ace
contents 2021 Quarter 1
Featured articles
28 UV Technologies in the Post-SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic World

Retail and restaurant sectors were hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic, accelerating the introduction
of infection control technologies previously considered nonessential for these industries.
by Dr. Keith Warriner, CPHAZ, Department of Food Science, University of Guelph, Ontario
34 Ultraviolet Disinfection: Background and Basics

Commonly used for disinfecting water, air and surfaces, UV wavelengths also are considered
damaging to human skin and eyes.
by Kari Sholtes, Ph.D.; instructor, CMU/CU Boulder Civil Engineering, Colorado Mesa University
Richard Simons, Ph.D., head of application science, AquiSense Technologies
Sara E. Beck, Ph.D.; assistant professor, University of British Columbia
Babak Adeli, Ph.D., director of R&D, Acuva Technologies Inc.
Zhe Sun, Ph.D., post-doc, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy
of Sciences
38 SARS-CoV-2 Dose Response Research Status Update

Covering published data from numerous sources, key conclusions can be seen in research of the UV
dose response of SARS-CoV-2.
by Oliver Lawal, CEO, AquiSense Technologies
Richard Simons, Ph.D., head of application science, AquiSense Technologies
Anna Herman, applications engineer, AquiSense Technologies
Jennifer Pagan, Ph.D., CTO, AquiSense Technologies
46 Use of Fluoropolymers in UV Sterilization Equipment

While most polymers are ineffective, fluorinated polymers have proven most effective
for UV sterilization equipment.
by Samantha Deverell, managing director, Adtech Polymer Engineering
4 | UVSolutions uvsolutionsmag.com
28 46
Departments 6
6
President’s Letter
From the Editor-in-Chief
18
25
Operator’s Corner
Technology Showcase:
8 Focus on Healthcare Healthcare
and UV Disinfection 26 Association News
10 Focus on Water 32 Industry News
12 Focus on Food 44 Application Highlight:
and Beverage Safety UV Disinfection for
14 Application Highlight: Healthcare
AOP for Drinking Water 50 Calendar/Ad Index
Read the latest articles from

UV Solutions magazine or download a
digital edition at uvsolutionsmag.com.
Executive Operating Editorial Board Editor-in-Chief Published by:

Committee Jim Bolton Jim Malley
Ron Hofmann, Ph.D.
Bolton Photosciences Inc. [email protected]
President Professor Ezra Cates
Clemson University UV Solutions (print version)
Ian Mayor-Smith (ISSN 1528-2017) is published
EMEA Vice President Christine Cotton, P.E. quarterly by the International 2150 SW Westport Dr.,
ARCADIS Ultraviolet Association, Inc. Suite 101
Kumiko Oguma, Ph.D.
Asia Vice President Samuel S. Jeyanayagam, An online version is posted on Topeka, KS 66614
www.uvsolutionsmag.com. 785.271.5801
Ernest “Chip” Blatchley Ph.D., P.E., BCEE CH2M Hill
Ted Mao Professor James P. Malley, Managing Editor
Opinions expressed in this
Americas Co-Vice Presidents Jr., Ph.D. University of New publication may or may Brittany Willes
Hampshire
Gary Hunter, P.E. Treasurer not reflect the views of the
Richard Joshi Secretary Jennifer Pagan Association and do not Graphic Designer
Aquisense Technologies necessarily represent official
Jennifer Osgood, P.E., Kelly Adams
Phyllis B. Posy positions or policies of the
PMP, BCEE President-Elect PosyGlobal Association or its members.
Oliver Lawal Harold Wright Advertising/Sales
Immediate Past President Carollo Engineers Janet Dunnichay
uvsolutionsmag.com 2021 Quarter 1 |5

FROM THE IUVA PRESIDENT
T
he IUVA recently moved to holding many of its events online. Virtual events lack some of the
person-to-person interaction that is valuable when meeting more traditionally, but the upside is
that virtual events are less expensive from every perspective and can be arranged much more
quickly in response to a changing world.
One such change that has happened fast within the IUVA, and to the UV industry overall, is the many
new opportunities to use UV for air and surface disinfection. There are obvious immediate applications
Ron Hofmann for UV in this context for controlling COVID-19, but, looking ahead, it’s easy to see a long-term role for
IUVA president UV air and surface disinfection in all aspects of public health protection. The IUVA’s online activities
/ professor, in recent months have reflected this. In early December, the IUVA hosted a very successful virtual
University of conference on UV disinfection for air and surfaces, bringing together key regulators and decision-makers
Toronto in this sector. I’m not sure that such an event could’ve been put together so quickly and effectively using
a more traditional conference format.
Contact: ron.
hofmann@ IUVA is quickly reorienting some of its upcoming virtual events to include a stronger focus on air and
utoronto.ca surfaces. One of these events is the International Conference on UV LED Technologies and Applications
(ICULTA), scheduled for April 2021, in partnership with the German-based “Advanced UV For Life”
416.946.7508
consortium. While this virtual conference will focus on UV LEDs, there will be a session dedicated to
COVID-19, as well as many excellent talks related to air and surface disinfection. The IUVA also is
planning its next World Congress for June 2021. The virtual platform will make it easier to ensure that
we can invite some of the key stakeholders in the rapidly evolving air and surface disinfection sector to
participate and to present their perspectives.
While air and surface disinfection to reduce the spread of illness in hospital rooms, airplanes and gyms is
exciting, it also is going to be difficult to do right. I hope that we’ll start to see some enthusiastic scientific
dialogue on this topic at our upcoming IUVA events. I hope to see you there!
FROM THE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
O
n behalf of all of us at IUVA and UV Solutions – Innovations for Industry, Public Health, and
the Environment, we hope that 2021 brings to each of our readers all that they hope it will. This
2021 Quarter 1 edition truly captures the breadth and depth of the UV technology industry.
Timely contributions from our members who are working daily in the ongoing battle to control the
COVID-19 pandemic are emphasized throughout, including a timely piece that looks at UV applications
in a post-pandemic world and another that is an update of information being released on the UV dose
response of SARS-CoV-2 – an area where new data appears just about every week. This edition also has
Jim Malley articles ranging from UV 101: An Overview of UV Technology to UV LEDs, as well as UV application
UV Solutions highlights and discussion of using fluoropolymers in UV-C equipment. Operator’s Corner provides
editor-in-chief experiences with using two types of commercially available UV reactive dosimeter badges to provide
/ University rapid, inexpensive, relative checks on UV disinfection devices being used to treat air and surfaces.
of New
Hampshire IUVA Healthcare and the Food and Beverage Group’s columns bring us an update on activities in those
groups during the COVID-19 pandemic. For 2021 Quarter 1, we are happy to announce a new column
Contact: focusing on One Water, which will be provided each quarter by our YP members.
editorinchief@
iuva.org Please note that the information provided in UV Solutions is reviewed by one technical Editor-in-
Chief and by a professional publications staff, but it is not subjected to a rigorous peer-review process.
Authors provide information in an open and collaborative manner with opinions, conclusions and
recommendations presented from their perspectives and experiences, which may not reflect, nor is there
any implied or expressed guarantee of their validity by IUVA or Peterson Publications.
®
Olympia’s patent-pending UVC Air Disinfection solutions

facilitate a healthy indoor environment and peace of mind.
Our In-Duct devices produce UVC light at optimal disinfection
wavelength of 265nm in circulating air systems, strong enough to
deactivate microorganisms such as Bacteria, Viruses, and Mold.
UVC LED Air Purifier
UVC Light
© Copyrights reserved, Olympia Lighting, Inc. USA 2021 OLYMPIA® is a registered trademark of Olympia Lighting, inc.
www.OlympiaLighting.com [email protected]
FOCUS ON HEALTHCARE/UV DISINFECTION
IUVA Achieving Win/Win Success

with Key Players in UV Disinfection
A
s 2020 ended, IUVA was celebrating
acceptance into FDA’s Network of
Experts and the success of the ICUDAS
Federal Regulatory Roundtable panel involving
FDA, EPA, NIST and the Canadian Research
Council. Both events solidified IUVA’s role as
a leading integrator of UV technology into the
IUVA healthcare industry’s disinfection tool kit in
Healthcare/ the fight against COVID-19 and multiple drug
UV Working resistant organisms (MDROs). Continuing thanks
Group to all those who made those events possible.
Troy Cowan Looking ahead into 2021, IUVA will continue to
IUVA work with existing partners and reach out to other
Healthcare/UV key organizations impacting UV-C’s disinfection
Working Group spectrum. The following are a few of the major
facilitator work-products and events in the works.
New draft standards

measurements of UV sources
Working in close collaboration with partners in
IES, the first UV measurement standard is to be giving it industry-wide and federal standing, as
issued for peer review – a key first step leading well as enhancements that make its measurement
to eventual ANSI approval protocols applicable to all LP-Hg bulbs, regardless
and certification. Once ANSI of geometry or shape, while measuring outputs at
certifies, this will be classified specific UV wavelengths (a key feature as non
as a voluntary consensus 254 nm wavelengths gain credibility).
standard for use industry wide,
applicable across the federal Other standards in the preliminary development
regulatory domain. This first include one for measuring UV output of units
Miller standard issuance covers using other UV technologies (e.g., broad-
LED UV sources and may be spectrum Xenon and Far-UV-C Excimer sources)
out for comment by the time and one for calibrating radiometers used in
of this article’s publication. making these measurements, to ensure
Thanks go out to Cameron comparability between experiments. Together,
Miller, who is leading this these will form the basis for measuring and
joint IUVA/IES initiative, and reporting output of UV disinfection devices in
Alex Baker, IES sponsor and a standardized way, to enable accurate, credible
Baker
facilitator, both key to making comparisons of output between units under
this joint effort a success. controlled test conditions. This end goal is a long
way away, but the problem is being worked in a
A jointly proposed standard for low-pressure step-wise manner.
mercury (LP-Hg) bulbs will come out later this
spring. IUVA has had an LP-Hg measurement New Partnership with EPA’s
protocol on the books for years, and much of the Smart Sectors Program
existing IUVA protocol has been incorporated Enthused by success in joining FDA’s Network
into the current draft. What will make this version of Experts, IUVA started looking for similar
different is the ANSI certification (once achieved), programs inside EPA, finding the EPA’s Smart
Sectors Program (www.epa.gov/smartsectors), which development efforts, similar to what IUVA does with IES.
supports “…partnering with trade associations that represent Efforts are underway for one or more new webinars covering
the engine of the American economy and significant how UV technologies can help in the nation’s return to
opportunities for environmental improvement.” normalcy initiatives (e.g., return to work, return to school,
and restarting the transportation and hospitality sectors).
Smart Sectors provides the following services: There may be an opportunity to dovetail these with an updated
regulatory roundtable session to highlight regulatory plans
• Focuses on 13 different industry sectors, primarily in from the FDA, EPA, CDC, NIOSH, etc. Stay tuned to the
manufacturing areas. IUVA website for updates.
• Functions as liaison and ombudsman between member
associations and their EPA regulatory counterparts, There is no doubt 2021 will be a transformative year
including helping navigate the agency in resolving for the UV marketplace. Come join us and be part of that
issues referred by the association. transformation. n
• Holds executive-level roundtable discussions, makes
factory visits to stay updated on technology and Through the IUVA Healthcare/UV Working Group, endeavors
holds quarterly meetings to touch base and maintain are being made to promote the acceptance of UV disinfecting
relationships. technologies as a credible, valued part of environmental
• Has contacts in each of EPA’s 10 regional offices that management throughout the healthcare industry. In this
provide similar assistance at regional and local level. column, the UV community will be updated on these efforts
and the latest information on UV technology as it pertains to
Gary Cohen, IUVA’s executive director, is the lead contact, the healthcare industry.
backed up by Dr. Jim Malley, Dr. Rick Martinello and Troy
Cowan. EPA’s Smart Sectors is a great link and an excellent Contact: Troy Cowan, [email protected]
resource.
Other exciting developments

IUVA is excited about the soon-to-be-released first installment UV Expert Consulting: Karl Platzer • Oliver Lawal •
of the proceedings and associated technical papers resulting Fred van Lierop • Michael Santelli • Henry Kozlowski •
Dr. Jim Bolton • Walter Blumenthal
from the January 2020 NIST/IUVA workshop.
Validated
CFD Simulation
These proceedings will be published in to identify
the Journal of Research of the National opportunities for
Institute of Standards and Technology, an improvement
internationally recognized, peer-reviewed
research journal, indexed into many
scientific, medical and healthcare related
Poster search engines. Thanks to the efforts and
assistance of Dr. Dianne Poster, NIST will
continue to consider more papers that, if
accepted, will be published electronically
in subsequent releases.
Thanks to the efforts and perseverance

of Dr. Ashish Mathur (UVDI) and Sam
Mathur Guzman (American UV), IUVA is about
to enter into discussions with ASHRAE
on how to jointly collaborate on UV
We are a multidisciplinary team of UV experts each
efficacy measurement standards for with an average of 20 years of experience. Our main fields
HVAC system and upper room UV air of expertise: traditional UV Lights & future LED solutions.
disinfection and other areas germane to
pathogen disinfection in large facilities. 3rd party UV-Lamp-System Evaluation =
Trust for the OEM, the lamp producer and the end-user
Guzman Hopefully this will lead to an MOU

Karl Platzer - Consulting M&A Business Development LLC.
with ASHRAE for ongoing standards www.uvlampconsulting.com
uvsolutionsmag.com 2021 Quarter 1 |9

FOCUS ON WATER
Opportunities on the Horizon

for Drinking Water Applications
C
urrent drinking water applications of world of possibilities for full-scale applications
UV remain steady with some highlights of UV LED units in drinking water.
relating to improved understanding of
validation techniques. These techniques can Water reuse applications
apply low and high wavelength sensors to most In the spirit of moving away from the term
cost effectively design, validate and operate wastewater (which, arguably, might imply
medium-pressure UV systems by measuring wasting water is acceptable) this column will
IUVA and taking advantage of low wavelengths (e.g., bring those more traditionally named applications
One Water 220 nm). When used in appropriate applications, under the umbrella of One Water. The use of UV
UV technologies can more cost-effectively technologies for conventional disinfection of
achieve 3-log and 4-log viral inactivation credit, effluents from treatment facilities and stormwater
therefore, providing more utilities with another has remained steady.
Cassidy Yates tool and flexibility in meeting simultaneous
MS Student, compliance. An example in the US includes the Hot topics internationally, such as the COVID-19
Department need to meet the Ground Water Rule (GWR) and pandemic and contaminants of emerging concern
of Civil and the Stage 2 Disinfection/ Disinfection Byproduct (CEC) particularly per- and polyfluoroalkyl
Environmental Rule (D/DBPR). substances (PFAS), lead to upticks in research,
Engineering, development and applications of different UV
University There have been important steps made in the technologies to address these issues. COVID-19
of New 20-year progression of UV LED developments, control through water reuse has not been a
Hampshire including rapid improvements in the UV-C major focus for UV technology applications.
output/electrical efficiency. In addition to Activity has focused on transport and fate of the
Nicola Elardo these improvements, the UV industry has seen SARS-CoV-2 virus in treatment facility air and
MS Student, presentations and the publication in UV Solutions on surfaces to assess risk to operating staff.
Department (Autin and Bolton, 2020) showing one of the first
of Civil and UV LED reactors being validated for drinking Water reuse and integrated water supply
Environmental water at a maximum flow of 1,100 gpm with a management applications ranging from indirect
Engineering, 95% UVT for 3-log cryptosporidium credit. This to direct potable reuse continue to develop and
University momentum will continue and eventually open a implement UV-related advanced oxidation
of New
Hampshire
Castine
Bernardy
Ph.D. student,
Department
of Civil and
Environmental
Engineering,
University
of New
Hampshire
processes as both a disinfection barrier and a treatment for
CECs. Continued focus on improved operation, maintenance,
control and overall cost reduction for these processes is being
reported around the globe.
Research and development

Along with UV LEDs, research developments related to
so-called “Far-UV-C” are exciting industry professionals.
Optically filtered krypton-chlorine lamps produce a 222 nm
UV-C. This work has been driven by the call for disinfecting
air and surfaces during the COVID-19 pandemic. Certainly,
it could find applications and use in One Water, but there are
some technical obstacles related to the strong UV absorbance
of 222 nm wavelengths by many water quality issues.
UV technologies to address CECs remain prevalent in

R&D. As the One Water concept takes hold in treatment
systems across the globe, recalcitrant contaminants, such as
PFAS, become increasingly concerning as water containing
these and other CECs is continuously cycled through the
environment and the built infrastructure.
PFAS have strong, characteristic carbon-fluorine bonds,

enabling them to resist conventional treatment processes
that have been applied to water. UV light can be used as the
activation method in advanced reduction processes (ARPs),
along with a reduction agent like sulfite or ferrous iron. The
reactions that take place generate highly reactive radicals
and hydrated electrons (diagram) that have demonstrated the
potential for reductive defluorination of PFAS in a stepwise
manner.
While many knowledge gaps currently exist in the realm of

UV catalyzed ARPs, this topic will be gaining momentum
in the coming years as possible physical-chemical treatment
techniques for recalcitrant CECs. n
The “One Water” column seeks to highlight the application

of UV technologies to the traditional areas of drinking
water, wastewater, water reuse, agricultural and industrial
process water, and stormwater. The column strives to further
the evolving understanding and focus, driven by our YP
members, on sustainable water – reminding stakeholders
that there is one water cycle on earth.
Contact: Cassidy Yates, [email protected];

Nicola Elardo, [email protected]; Castine Bernardy,
[email protected]
FOCUS ON FOOD AND BEVERAGE SAFETY
Are Food Contact Surfaces

Seeing the Light?
F
ood contact surfaces
comprise all materials
that food products
may interact with during the
production, processing and
packaging of end products.
These surfaces are typically
IUVA Food made of stainless steel or
and Beverage various types of approved
Safety plastic. However, in more
Working complex sanitation situations,
Group contact surfaces may
additionally consist of a range
of other materials as well as a
Dr. Danny mix of wood, rubber, ceramics
Bayliss or glass, further complicating
new illumination and efficacy. As
technology a result, engineers tasked with
lead, fine tuning and optimizing
Campden BRI exposure to germicidal light
face fundamental challenges
Dr. Tatiana to achieving uniformity and
Koutchma effectiveness. For food contact
Agriculture surfaces to properly see the
and Agrifood light, the following factors
Canada, must be considered in any
Guelph, design:
Ontario
1. The surface topography
Peter E. and macro features
Gordon 2. The type and size of the
manager, microbe and its light
LiTeProducts sensitivity
LLC 3. How a specific organism
or group of organisms
physically colonize the microorganisms, the intensity is greatly reduced
surface and can possibly allow microbial survival. The
4. Wavelength dependent reflection, surface topography itself also will allow some
absorption or scattering shielding of the organisms from the light. This
5. The intensity of light delivered onto and level of shielding can be influenced by how the
then transmitting within the surface light is exposed to the surface, and recognizing
this complication drives the deployment of the
Food and contact surfaces have different macro germicidal engineering tool kit.
physical profiles, and these profiles can allow
organisms to stack and cluster themselves in In a manufacturing setting, if the surfaces are
ways that can limit the intensity and penetration larger than most food packaging dimensions, the
of photons to which they are exposed. While germicidal set-up is typically static, and the light
some of the light will penetrate through the source emits at an angle to the target surface. As
a result, the intensity of light that reaches microbes can be
greatly reduced. The angle of light also will cast shadowed
areas on the surface, which could protect organisms. To While a great deal of the protection
overcome this limitation, engineers design small interlock
systems, constructed with multiple sources, to ensure the
from exposure phenomena is due to
surface is exposed from every angle possible, minimizing the surface topography dynamics,
some foodborne pathogens are
shadowing. In addition, to enhance avoidance of shadowing,
vibration or rotation of the objects may be used during the
better biologically and chemically

exposure, aiming to shake the target surface further into the
line of sight of the sources.
However, if the surfaces being treated are small enough adapted to their hosts than to the
– such as yogurt cups – solution engineers instead opt to
pass them through a relatively slowly moving UV-C tunnel
microbiological validation surfaces
conveyor system as a technique to overcome the amount utilized in a lab setting.
of shadowing present on the target surface due to static
methods. In such tunnels, there is more design freedom to
enable 3D exposure of the parts of the product that can be Finally, the culmination of design activities to circumvent
potentially shadowed on the conveyor belt surface and to all the detrimental attributes of food contact surfaces
provide more controlled coverage than in a static system. that undermine efficient pathogen reduction is applying
Applications of this germicidal light delivery option include germicidal technology that delivers a high enough intensity
food surface treatment of fresh, short shelf-life fruits, some of light (mW/cm2) to within the pathogen species or groups
vegetable products, and bakery products such as buns and of pathogen species dwelling surface, for the required
bread, as well as containers of foodstuffs moving through on residence time(s), to inactivate the target organisms to the
to a high-care or high-risk part of a factory. degree regulations or food safety experts specify. Given
Fresnel equations describe the intensity dependence on the
Progressing through the enumerated considerations, different previously described reflection, as well as the absorption and
organisms can respond to UV-C exposure depending attenuation of transmission power, clearly physics governs
on the surface composition. While a great deal of the illumination processes.
protection from exposure phenomena is due to the surface
topography dynamics, some foodborne pathogens are better Hence, there is no doubt more experimental work is required
biologically and chemically adapted to their hosts than to to better understand these photonic phenomena within
the microbiological validation surfaces utilized in a lab pathogen-rich contaminated food contact surfaces for widely
setting. The reality manifests itself when technicians are deployed low-pressure mercury lamps and even more so
using surrogates for worst case organism inactivation testing. with the advent of UV-C LED and Excimer Lamp sources
For example, food safety technologists have seen different with even less studied wavelength-to-surface interactions.
norovirus surrogates behave differently when inoculated on Generating the right testing data to demonstrate validation
a stainless steel surface than when intermingled naturally for more surface types and microorganisms would be highly
within the skin and top surface of a blueberry. beneficial for the UV-C community. This activity would
help materials better see the light and boost confidence of
Engineering around surface topography and evolutionary customers that the systems can deliver the clear benefits
blocking mechanisms is only the start. The more complex when correctly specified and applied. n
the optical profile of the surface, and its departure from
perfectly smooth homogenous micro material, the more The IUVA Food and Beverage Safety Working Group
the application of wavelength dependent Snell’s Law and explores the latest updates on the science-based validation
the resultant reflection of germicidal light off that surface and commercialization of UV-C technology for plant
come into play, along with transmission scattering within the growth stimulation or suppression, nutrition enhancement,
material. It is well documented that impinging on simpler-to- fungicide and pesticide reduction, wash water sanitation and
profile smoother surfaces, like stainless steel or packaging, postharvest disinfection, as well as use for nonthermal, low
germicidal light at a specific wavelength can achieve 3- to UVT beverage treatment.
5-log reductions depending on the target organisms and
dosages applied. But under same conditions for complex Contact: Dr. Danny Bayliss, Danny.Bayliss@campdenbri.
mixed material food surfaces, only a range of 0.5- to 2.5-log co.uk; Dr. Tatiana Koutchma, [email protected];
microbial reductions tend to be achieved. Peter E. Gordon, [email protected]
uvsolutionsmag.com 2021 Quarter 1 | 13

APPLICATION HIGHLIGHT: AOP SYSTEM FOR DRINKING WATER
First UV/H2O2 AOP Systems

for Municipal Drinking Water
Treatment in China
S
Wenjun Sun, handong Province is located on the eastern coast of China, on the lower basin of the Yellow
Xiuwei Ao River. With a population of 98.47 million, the second highest in China, it covers an area of about
157,900 square kilometers (from the 2015 census). It has a typical temperate and monsoonal
and
climate with four distinct seasons. It is predominantly an agricultural province in China. The shortage
Zhongyun of water sources is a very serious problem in Shandong (Liu et al., 2019). It is a typical multisource
Chen water supply area, with limited access to major rivers. After the Eastern-Line South-to-North Water
School of Transfer Project was connected, the water transferred from outside the region accounts for one-third
Environment, of the total supply. Long distance water diversion, basin nonpoint source pollution and the release of
Tsinghua endogenous pollution in the sediment of storage lakes and reservoirs lead to the problem of organic
University pollutants in drinking water (Li et al., 2020). The mixing of different types of water sources also causes
the fluctuation and seasonal variation of water quality (Zhang et al., 2019).
Kumiko
Oguma Algae, taste and odor compounds, low molecular weight organic matters, bromide ion, sulfate, chloride,
associate etc. have become priority controlled characteristic pollutants in Shandong’s drinking water treatment
professor, plants (DWTPs) (Li et al., 2016). However, in Shandong, few DWTPs apply advanced drinking
Department water treatment process and enhanced conventional drinking water treatment process to address these
of Urban water quality issues. Existing water treatment processes cannot effectively remove organic pollutants
Engineering, from the source water. The current national Standards for Drinking Water Quality (GB 5749-2006)
University of in China, issued in 2007, has much more stringent requirements on drinking water quality than the
Tokyo
Ruibao Jia,
Wuchang
Song and
Guifang Li
Shandong
Urban Water
Supply and
Drainage
Water Quality
Monitoring
Center
Wonglei
Wang
professor,
School of
Municipal &
Environmental
Egineering,
Shandong
Jianzhu
University
Figure 1. Qingyun Shuanglonghu Drinking Water Treatment Plant (DWTP)
previous guideline. To mitigate water quality risks and meet to the Yellow River Diversion reservoir with a shallow
more stringent drinking water health standards, UV-based bottom, it typically has micro pollutant issues and significant
advanced oxidation process (UV-AOP) has attracted seasonal taste and odor issues caused by algal bloom. The
increasing attention for consideration in drinking water reservoir water is of mesotrophic or eutrophic level, and the
systems in China, especially in Shandong. eutrophication index (TSI) is between 35 and 51. The total
number of algae varies greatly from year to year, with an
Among UV-AOPs, UV/H2O2 is a well-established technology average of 5 to 50 million/L.
used in full-scale for several decades (Li et al., 2020). The
effectiveness of the UV/H2O2 has been demonstrated for Diatoms are dominant in spring, and blue-green algae are
several classes of organic pollutants, such as pharmaceuticals, dominant in summer. High content of organic matter, oxygen
pesticides, industrial compounds, etc. However, there was consumption is generally between 2 and 4 mg/L, mainly small
no precedence of applying UV/H2O2 at full-scale, in a real molecules (molecular weight<3k Dalton accounts for about
municipal DWTP in China. The first such application was 60% to 70%). The bromide ion concentration is between 60
installed in Shuanglonghu drinking water plant in Qingyun and 422 μg/L, and the concentration of ammonia nitrogen
County, Dezhou City, Shandong Province, China (Figure 1). is low (generally < 0.5 mg/L). There is a high potential of
It has been successfully operated since June 2020. bromate formation when ozonation is used.
Water quality and treatment train Qingyun county is at the end of the Yellow River water
Shuanglonghu-Yellow River Diversion reservoir is the intake point in Shandong Province, which is located in
source of the drinking water treatment plant. The designed the coastal saline alkali land. Its water quality challenge is
storage capacity of the reservoir is 9.9 million m3, and the more significant than those in other cities and counties. The
designed water level and depth are 13.03 m and 8.50 m conventional water treatment process cannot consistently
respectively. It is a typical plain shallow reservoir in northern
China. Because the water source of the waterworks belongs continued on page 16
PLACEMENT Tru-D’s patented Sensor360 ®
technology destroys pathogens throughout an entire

room from one position.
CYCLE Tru-D’s reﬂected UVC dose is validated by

multiple studies to disinfect all surfaces, even in
shadowed areas—in one cycle.
GOAL Adding Tru-D’s enhanced UVC disinfection

technology to your cleaning protocols has been
shown to provide a safer hospital environment for
patients. That’s the power of ONE.
Backed by Science.
TRU-D.COM • 800.774.5799

AOP SYSTEM FOR DRINKING WATER
continued from page 15

meet water quality requirements in the treated
water.
Driven by these challenges, with the support of

the Chinese National Water Pollution Control
and Governance Science and Technology Major
Project, National Natural Science Foundation
of China, Tsinghua University and Shandong
Urban Water Supply and Drainage Water
Quality Monitoring Center (SUWSDWQMC)
carried out UV-AOP studies of the actual water
quality. The treatment train of “preoxidation/
powdered activated carbon/carbon dioxide
(when pH is high) +coagulation sedimentation
+ V-shaped filter + UV/H2O2 + BAC + sodium
hypochlorite disinfection” was finally designed,
in which the UV advanced oxidation process
was to address complex water quality issues,
including algal toxins, taste- and odor-causing Figure 2. The TrojanUVFlex™ ultraviolet system (side view)
substances, microbial contaminants and organic
micropollutants. In the meantime, it effectively avoided the the knowledge transfer for the UV industry and academic
risk of bromate formation. community in China. These efforts greatly supported the
application of UV AOP in this project. This is an excellent
Design, installation, operation example of how applied academic research has played
and performance an important role in determining technology selection,
Shuanglonghu water plant in Qingyun County has a design engineering design and operation.
capacity of 40,000 m3/d. It was a greenfield plant with
construction begun in June 2017, with a total investment of Conclusion
64 million yuan (RMB). Water supply to urban and rural areas The UV/H2O2 system in Shuanglonghu DWTP in Shandong
officially started in July 2019. The system at Qingyun WTP Province represents the first successful application of UV-
was originally designed to consist of one Trojan UVFlex™ AOP at full-scale in a real DWTP in China. Its major
reactor and H2O2 dosing system (Figure 2). significance lies in providing a new advanced drinking
treatment technology – besides ozone/BAC and membrane
The UV AOP system has been operating smoothly for – in China. The performance achieved and operation
more than seven months, and the performance of removing experience gained in this project demonstrated that UV/
MIB and GSM has exceeded the original design goal. H2O2 AOP treatment is an effective barrier against organic
The actual removal rate of 2-MIB could achieve 1.02-log, micropollutants, such as taste- and odor-causing compounds.
which is much higher than the expected 0.75-log removal. This project provides an important reference for UV/H2O2
The concentration of MIB after treatment was lower than AOP as a feasible solution for other areas in China to consider
10 ng/L. GSM achieved log removal of 1.41, exceeding the in addressing taste and odor issues in drinking water. n
set target of 1-log removal. The concentration of bromate in
the effluent also was lower than 10 ng/L (regulatory limit in For full list of references, visit www.uvsolutionsmag.com.
Chinese drinking water standard GB5749).
Contact: Wenjun Sun, [email protected]; Kumiko
The Solo Lamp™ utilized in the TrojanUVFlex™ system Oguma, [email protected]; Ruibao Jia,
is a high-efficiency, low-pressure high-output lamp. This [email protected]; Xuiwei Ao, [email protected];
results in the lowest lamp count, which requires a smaller Wuchang Song, [email protected]; Yonglei Wang,
equipment footprint as well as fewer lamps to maintain [email protected]; Zhongyun Chen, chenzhongyun@
and replace. Shuanglonghu WTP is the first Solo Lamp tsinghua.edu.cn; Guifang Li, [email protected]
application for drinking water treatment in China and one
of the earliest applications in the world. Tsinghua University
and SUWSDWQMC organized UV international academic
workshops and conferences in 2007 with support from
different partners and IUVA. These activities enhanced
OPERATOR’S CORNER
UV Dosimeter Badges:
An Emerging Tool
for Monitoring Delivered Dose
W
Alexa M. ith interest in ultraviolet surface
Trautz disinfection increasing due to
research the recent coronavirus pandemic,
engineer, scientists are finding alternative tools for
University assessing the effectiveness of ultraviolet light.
of New One technology that has gained attention is the
Hampshire, dosimeter badge.
Department
of Civil and A dosimeter badge is a reusable or single-use
Environmental label that changes color proportionally to the
Engineerin dose of radiation it receives. Alternative names
for dosimeter badges are Radiochromic Film1
and Dose Indicators.2 The dosimeter badges on
the market are made from proprietary chemical
compounds that react when exposed to radiation.
The chemical makeup of a dosimeter badge is a
function of the type of radiation with which it
reacts. When radiation of a specific wavelength
is applied to a dosimeter badge, the chemicals
on the outer surface undergo a reaction, causing
their color to change.3
Dosimeter badges are used in many industries and

can be regularly found in hospitals,4 emergency
response vehicles, dentistry clinics, energy
production facilities and throughout curing Figure 1a. DB-A was a UVC 100
processes. In these environments the dosimeter Dosimeter from Intellego Technologies.
badges act as an alert system that either a process
has finished or that a worker is close to receiving • DB-B: UV Intensity Labels by UV Process
the maximum allowable dose of radiation.5 They Supply
often appear as either wearable tags or adhesive
stickers. While the stickers can only be used once Each pack of dosimeter badges purchased was
before being discarded, the wearable tags can accompanied by a color scale that allows the user
undergo multiple separate dosing events before to determine the dose received by the badges
reaching their end of life. after they are exposed to UV light. Figures 1a
and 1b depict both dosimeter badges with their
Research respective color scales. DB-A was able to measure
The following study is limited to single-use UV radiation with a wavelength of 254 nm for
dosimeter badges that react to ultraviolet (UV) doses up to 100 mJ/cm2. DB-B measured UV
light. The following two dosimeter badges were radiation with a wavelength ranging from 200 to
selected and purchased for evaluation: 395 nm for doses up to 2,000 mJ/cm2. Although
both dosimeter badges measure UV light, DB-A
• DB-A: UVC 100 Dosimeters by Intellego is limited to the single wavelength traditionally
Technologies relied upon for UV disinfection.
were altered from their original bright yellow color. Standard
room lighting consists of conventional 32W T8 fluorescent
tubes providing an illuminance of 500 lux for eight hours a
day, along with some natural sunlight entering through the
windows. It took less than half an hour for DB-B to begin
reporting a perceived dose of 10 mJ/cm2. DB-A transformed
to a darker shade of yellow after three days of normal room
lighting but never reached the minimum readable dose for
the DB-A scale, which was 50 mJ/cm2.
Accuracy tests
To evaluate the accuracy of the doses determined with the
dosimeter badges, a recently calibrated IL1700 radiometer
was utilized to compare the known dose at a location based on
the measured irradiance to the color of the dosimeter badges
after receiving that dose. The radiometer was fitted with an
SED240 sensor, a wide-angle diffuser and a 254 nm filter.
Before any testing began, the collimated beams LPHO UV

lamps could warm up for one hour. The irradiance at a known
distance from the lamp was then determined by placing
the IL1700 radiometer under the collimated beam for two
minutes. This was repeated three times, and an average of the
continued on page 20
Figure 1b. DB-B was a UV Intensity Label by UV

Process Supply.
Alternatively, DB-B covers a range of UV light, including

natural sunlight, making it more sensitive and less accurate
for disinfection-based purposes. While both dosimeter badges
began as bright yellow, DB-A transitioned to dark pink by its
maximum dose as seen in Figure 1a. DB-B transitions to a
dark green by its maximum dose as seen in Figure 1b.
Two UV devices were used in testing the usefulness of both

dosimeter badges; a collimated beam and a Lumin™ CPAP
Mask and Accessories Cleaner. The entire collimated beam
system is featured in Figure 2.
Exposure tests
Each dosimeter badge was first assessed to see how it
interacted with standard room lighting. When exposed to
standard laboratory room lighting, both dosimeter badges
OPERATOR’S CORNER
three irradiance values was calculated to use as the known
irradiance at that location. Figure 2 demonstrates the set-up
for this process. This known value then was divided by each
dose value given on both color scales for each dosimeter
badge to calculate the length of time each badge would need
to be irradiated by the collimated system to achieve each dose
at that location.
For example, the known irradiance was determined to be

1.10 mW/cm2 at the first trial location. Therefore, for a badge
to receive a dose of 50 mJ/cm2, it would need to be irradiated
for 45 seconds by the collimated beam. The dose read by the
dosimeter badge at the end of 45 seconds will be defined as
the perceived dose.
Stackable height adjusters (SHA) were used to conveniently

adjust the vertical location of the dosimeter badges. These Figure 2. IL1700 Radiometer underneath collimated
SHAs allowed the location of the dosimeter badge to be at beam measuring irradiance at set location
the same location as the irradiance was previously measured.
These can be seen in Figure 3.
Each dosimeter badge then was placed under the collimated

beam and exposed to UV light for the previously calculated
amount of time for each expected dose. Figure 3 depicts
Figure 3. DB-B under the collimated beam at set

location while UV dose is being applied
the process of the collimated beam irradiating onto the

dosimeter badge. The dosimeter badge was then removed
from the poker chip stack and compared to the appropriate
color scale. The perceived dose then was recorded based on
this comparison. If the color of the dosimeter badge after
dosing did not match any color clearly on the appropriate
OPERATOR’S CORNER
Figure 4. Summary of the results from the accuracy test. Twelve trials were completed for DB-A, and 18 trials
were completed for DB-B. “Matched” indicates the perceived dose was equal to the known dose and “Unclear”
indicates that the dosimeter badge dose was undeterminable.
color scale, then it was recorded as “Unclear.” After every disinfection device (i.e., the Lumin™) The four objects were
expected dose for a type of dosimeter badge was determined, a razor, comb, sunglasses and keys.
the radiometer was placed underneath the collimated beam
again to confirm the irradiance has not significantly varied at Before dosing any object, the irradiance in the center of
that test location. the Lumin™ was measured using the IL1700 radiometer.
The center of the Lumin™ also was marked to ensure the
The entire process of setting a location, determining the objects would later be placed in the correct location. This
irradiance, calculating the time for each dose, dosing the was repeated five times before testing DB-A and another
badges and comparing each perceived dose to each expected five times before DB-B and an average of all 10 was used to
dose was repeated at three different locations for DB-A and calculate the expected dose in the center of the device.
two different locations for DB-B. DB-B was tested at one
less location because the time to reach the maximum doses Six dosimeter badges were attached to each object
for DB-B was 20 times longer than that of DB-A. individually. Each badge placement was documented by
photographing the object in two positions, one displaying
Figure 4 summarizes the results from these experiments. the side of the object that would face the lamp and the other
For DB-A, the perceived dose matched the expected dose showing the opposite. The lamp-facing side of the object was
25% of the time and was undeterminable 50% of the time. named Side-1, and the bottom-facing side was named Side-2.
For DB-B, the perceived dose matched the expected dose
17% of the time and was undeterminable 78% of the time. After documentation, each individual object was placed in
When the dosimeter badges produced perceived doses that center location of the Lumin™ and dosed for one minute. The
were readable but did not match the expected dose, they were object was removed from the UV device and the dosimeter
consistently underestimations. badges were observed to assess where UV light touched the
object during the dose. Along with this, more photos were
Complicated object taken to document the color change around the object. Each
Four objects were selected to evaluate the usefulness of the dosimeter badge on the object was compared to the color scale
dosimeter badges as an identifier for UV dose on varying and the largest dose perceived was recorded. The maximum
complicated geometries in a typical commercial UV-based dose received by both dosimeter badges was 50 mJ/cm2. This
Dose Hard SiC
UV Detectors, and
UV/UVI Radiometers
disagreed with the expected dose based on receiving the
measured irradiance for one minute at that location within the
Lumin™, which was calculated to be 284 mJ/cm2.
Table 1 shows the photos taken of each object in either

position after being dosed. The dosimeter badges that were
facing the lamp consistently received the highest UV dose
during exposure. Dosimeter badges that were facing away
from the lamp would receive radiation depending on the
flatness of the object to which they were attached. This is
demonstrated in Table 1 in the Side-2 row. Flat objects, like
the comb or wallet, did not allow much, if any, UV light
to reach the ground-facing dosimeter badges while curvy
objects, like the razor, allowed all the dosimeter badges
located on the ground-facing side to receive UV light.
One key difference between the dosimeter badges found

during these tests was that DB-A adhered to all the objects
throughout experimentation while at least one of the DB-B
badges fell off the object while it was inside the Lumin™.
This occurred for every object tested.
UV SiC detectors, hybrid sensors
Results and discussion
There are several differences between the experiments & electronic probes
conducted using the collimated beam and the Lumin™.
The light being produced by the lamp within the Lumin™
is released in all directions and then reflected and refracted
around the device by its inner walls. Meanwhile the
collimated beam controls the conditions of the incident angle
of light. Thus, the outcome of the dosimeter badge change on
the object tested within the Lumin™ would not be the same
had they been dosed in a spot with the same irradiance for
one minute under the collimated beam.
Both dosimeter badges consistently read dose values that

were smaller than predicted by the radiometer for each
location and dosage time. This outcome was unexpected
because the radiometer is free from common interferences
while the dosimeter badges are not. This is due to the
radiometer’s cosine correction, wide angle diffuser and 254
nm optical filter. Although the dosimeter badges were unable
to consistently predict precise dose values, they were able to
show general magnitudes of dose depending on the range of
their color scale.
Along with this, dosimeter badges can be used to generally

Radiometers for UV measurement
assess where UV light has touched a surface. This can help process control & workplace safety
researchers in identifying areas that are shadowed from light
and have not received any dose at all.
It is important when selecting a dosimeter badge for

experimentation to understand the range of radiation to www.boselec.com | [email protected]
which the dosimeter badge will react and the range of doses
617-566-3821 | shop.boselec.com

OPERATOR’S CORNER
Table 1. Image of each object after being dosed for one minute within the Lumin™ with DB-A attached. While
being dosed Side-1 was facing the lamp, while Side-2 was facing the bottom of the Lumin™.
the badge will be able to report. Similarly, the variety of what doses match each color, researchers could predict the
colors offered on the corresponding color scale can have a irradiance at a set location using the dosimeter badge.
major impact on the interpretability of the dosimeter badge.
These are all key factors that can impact overall usefulness of This work also could be greatly benefitted by the
this tool and should be considered before purchase. accompaniment of a colorimeter, a device that can translate
color into number values. There were attempts made
The dosimeter badges unexpectedly acted as an easy alert during this study to utilize iPhone colorimeter apps during
early in experimentation that the radiometer being utilized experimentation to read more accurately the dosimeter
was not set to the correct calibration constant. After fixing the badges, but none were successful. This was caused by the
calibration constant, the radiometer readings began agreeing inability to consistently capture images with equal lighting.
with the dosimeter badges more often. This suggests that the Greater success could be found with a colorimeter that is of
dosimeter badges could act as a quick test for UV researchers higher quality. n
that their other equipment is functioning properly.
Contact: Alexa M. Trautz, [email protected]
Conclusion
As interest in room and surface disinfection continues References
to increase, alternative tools for evaluating the extent and 1. Soares, Christopher G. “Radiochromic Film.” United States Department
of Commerce, National Institute of Standards and Technology, 2009.
effectiveness of UV devices are crucial. Dosimeter badges https://www.aapm.org/meetings/09SS/documents/23Soares-Radiochro-
are effective tools for simply confirming whether a UV dose micFilm.pdf
has been received at a specific location. They also can act
2. Cadnum, Jennifer L, et al. “Ultraviolet-C (UV-C) Monitoring Made
as another signal to researchers that their radiometer needs Ridiculously Simple: UV-C Dose Indicators for Convenient Measure-
recalibration. It is especially important to assess one’s ment of UV-C Dosing.” U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, 2019.
research needs before selecting a dosimeter badge as a UV 3. Kurz, Wolfgang, et al. “UV‐Sensitive Wearable Devices for Colorimetric
assessment tool because the dosimeter badges available Monitoring of UV Exposure.” Advanced Optical Materials, vol. 8, no. 6,
on the market can vary significantly in radiation range, 2020, p. 1901969., doi:10.1002/adom.201901969.
readability and adhesion. 4. Lindblad, Marie, et al. “Ultraviolet-C Decontamination of a Hospital
Room: Amount of UV Light Needed.” Burns, vol. 46, no. 4, June 2020,
Additional studies pp. 842–849., doi:10.1016/j.burns.2019.10.004.
To further the industries’ understanding of dosimeter badges 5. “Dosimetry Badges for Radiation Safety.” Dosimetry Badge, 11 Aug.
and their uses for UV researchers, tests should be conducted 2017, www.dosimetrybadge.com/dosimetry-badges-radiation-safety/.
that map out the ranges of possible doses equal to each color
on a scale. This should be done with colorimeter badges that
feature multiple colors on their scale. With the knowledge of
TECHNOLOGY SHOWCASE: HEALTHCARE
Atlantic Ultraviolet Corporation

631.273.0500
www.ultraviolet.com
Atlantic Ultraviolet Corporation®, Hauppauge, New York,
has developed a line of germicidal ultraviolet (UV-C)
portable area sanitizers for
the healthcare industry. The
Sanidyne® Prime Remote
can treat 1,000 sq. ft. in one
hour, while the Sanidyne®
Plus can treat 1,000 sq. ft. in HM-SMAI, Hydraluvx, Santiago, Chile, reduces the risks
15 minutes. The Sanidyne® of infection by contact with medical surfaces contaminated
Premium can treat 3,500 with microbiological threats left in a room. The HM-SMAI
sq. ft. in 15 minutes. The is a disinfection device for high-touch medical surfaces.
Sanidyne® is made of quality Its use is safe and reliable, developed under strict norms of
stainless steel and other high- photobiological security.
grade components. Each model comprises eight germicidal
ultraviolet (UV-C) lamps and provides direct exposure for iCleanse
air and surface disinfection of microorganisms in unoccupied 607.427.6766
areas. The Sanidyne® is manufactured in the US. www.icleanse.com
The new iCleanse Swift UV (available in
early April) is the quickest and easiest way
to disinfect by killing 99.9% of germs in just
15 seconds. The iCleanse Swift UV ensures
that healthcare staff, patients and visitors stay
safe by stopping the spread of pathogens, such
as the common cold, influenza and human
coronavirus, which can live on surfaces for
up to 28 days. Paired with hand sanitizer, to
Cleanbox Technology Inc. help eliminate the risk of recontaminating, the
760.385.8820 Swift UV greatly reduces the risk of patients
www.cleanboxtech.com obtaining healthcare-acquired infections, a constant concern
in healthcare settings.
The CleanDefense™ from Cleanbox Technology, Nashville,
Tennessee, has been tested for use against SARS-CoV-2. Nedap
CleanDefense for N-95, cloth and other layered masks is +31 544 471 860
designed to quickly decontaminate four masks at once in a www.nedap-uv.com
two-minute cycle, up to 100 masks per hour. CleanDefense
Nedap, with US headquarters in
is validated to eradicate COVID-19 at 99.999% on all layers
Burlington, Massachusetts, has added
of an N-95 mask in less than two minutes. Cleanbox’s
some new features to upgrade the
OmniClean™ provides 360° decontamination on any
versatility of its UniMulti lamp driver
product that fits in the unit. It offers RFID-based hygiene
platform. The upgraded drivers are
tracking with data accessed by a web-based portal, making
specified for universal input voltages
hygiene easy and safe for employees and consumers.
ranging from 115 Vac through 230 Vac
with up to 440 W total output power per
Hydraluvx Spa driver. The new “doubler board” allows
+56 9 569 518 89 it to power up to eight UV lamps. This
www.hydraluvx.com can be very helpful in air and surface
When the demand for medical attention is high, there is the treatment UV systems. Units are CE and UL/cUL approved
possibility that traditional cleaning of surfaces may not be up to 55ºC (131ºF) ambient temperature and offer analog and
sufficient and that traces of specific microbiological threats Modbus control. Several settings for most popular lamps
remain in stretchers, patients’ chairs or in medical devices. are preprogrammed in the drivers for optimal preheat and
The appropriate use – under authorized protocols – of the operation of the UV lamp. n

ASSOCIATION NEWS
IUVA Welcomes New Board Members

In 2020, IUVA welcomed several new board members:
• Natalie Hull, The Ohio State University

• Ken Kershner, Aquionics Inc.
IUVA Develops New Task Force Model • Erin Mackey, Brown and Caldwell
To help better facilitate targeted and flexible IUVA member • John Pacione, New York State Department of Health
activities, the IUVA Board of Directors developed a task • Brian Petri, Trojan Technologies
force model in lieu of the traditional committee structure. • Mark Stibich, Xenex Health Care Services
Any IUVA member may recommend a new task force; please
visit iuva.org for details. Recent new task forces approved by Congratulations to our new group leaders!
the IUVA Board include:
• Development of a Standard Protocol for the

Quantification of the Hydroxyl Radical Scavenging
Demand in Water
• UV Output Measurements Under Water
• Understanding the Impacts of UV-C Exposure on RadLaunch Update
Polymer Degradation The IUVA RadLaunch initiative continues into its second
year, in partnership with RadTech. RadLaunch recognizes
Please contact IUVA at [email protected] for more information new ideas in the development of UV technology.
on these groups or if you have an interest in starting a new
initiative. Sujay Swain, a high school student in Maryland, and one
of last year’s award winners, sent a note updating his work
on his project to develop clean water for underserved areas.
Swain is developing a low-cost holistic water purification
system. He has conducted detailed optical modeling of an
improved reflector design that focuses a greater concentration
of sunlight onto the water container throughout the day.
Drink with Confidence This new reflector design has the potential of rapidly and
significantly increasing the water temperature, substantially
improving the efficacy of the design. Additionally, he is
Disinfect with UV studying the synergetic effect of UV-A radiation and heat,
Oxidize with UV-AOP proving that with the new reflector arrangement, the amount
Protect the Public Health of UV radiation needed to remove all biological contaminants
from the water was reduced by three orders of magnitude, as
verified by controlled experimentation with E. coli. These
findings have helped to improve system performance,
reducing the time needed to purify water.
Swain is now working with a local government in India to

begin implementation of this system in rural areas. Once
international travel is safe again, he plans on traveling to
India to take these experiences into the field.
Updates from the IUVA YP Committee

Happy New Year, everyone. There are a lot of exciting things
upcoming for 2021. The joint ICULTA, IUVA and Advanced
UV for Life UV LED Technologies & Applications virtual
conference is set for April 19-20, 2021. Following that, the
IUVA World Congress will be held as a virtual conference
www.neotecuv.com l [email protected] l +1.310.324.1561 on June 7-8, 2021. Calls for abstracts are open until March
12. Follow the YP Committee on Twitter, Facebook and and Grist et al, 2021). Using these workflows, Su is currently
LinkedIn for updates on initiatives and virtual events for the collaborating with fellow researchers to quantify how UV-C
World Congress. dose variation impacts SARS-CoV-2 inactivation on N95s.
There is a new episode of the IUVA YP’s podcast, Wavelength. Fatih Atci is a lecturer at the Central
In this episode, the team interviews Dr. Erin Mackey from Research Laboratory at the Karadeniz
Brown and Caldwell and Dr. Jim Malley from the University Technical University. He received his B.S.
of New Hampshire about the challenges and future of PFAS and M.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering
control in drinking water. The podcast can be found on the from Karadeniz Technical University in
IUVA website. 2016 and 2020, respectively. His M.Sc.
research focused on the in-duct UV-C
Atci
YP Spotlights air disinfection systems. He also has
Alison (Ali) Su is a fifth-year bioengineering graduate student published an article in a peer-reviewed journal about this
in Dr. Amy Herr’s Lab at UC Berkeley. At the beginning topic. He is now working on improving the disinfection
of the COVID-19 pandemic, Su joined efficiency of in-duct UV LED systems.
N95decon.org, a volunteer consortium of
scientists focused on evidence-based N95 The YP Committee exists to increase interest and involvement
respirator decontamination strategies, to in the IUVA and UV industry among young professionals
study UV-C decontamination of N95 (YPs), defined as students and professionals less than
respirators for crisis capacity reuse. After 35 years old or with less than 5 years of experience post-
recognizing an urgent need for robust, graduation in UV-related industry, government or academia.
Su
scalable and inexpensive UV-C dose If you have any questions or comments, or if you would like
measurement tools, Su teamed up with fellow lab members to get more involved, feel free to contact us via social media
to develop workflows to quantify photochromic indicators as (@IUVAYP) or by email ([email protected]). n
UV-C dosimeters for measurements on 3D N95 surfaces (Su
FOOD & BEVERAGE HVAC
UVC Germicidal Solutions

for all Upper Air, Surface,
In-Duct and Water Applications.
Since 1960 American Ultraviolet has provided
tens of thousands of UVC Germicidal
Solutions that effectively disinfect air, water
and surfaces. Our many satisfied clients
include health care professionals, facility
managers, environmental engineers, food
and beverage manufacturers, scientists,
chemists, academics, government
officials, policymakers, and all businesses
looking for UVC workplace solutions. UPPER AIR HEALTHCARE
Call or e-mail today to discuss your

UV requirements. If we don’t already
have the perfect system, we’ll design and
manufacture an insightful solution that will
provide remarkable results for you and your
customers, as we’ve been doing since 1960. SURFACE/ WATER
HANDHELD TREATMENT
www.americanultraviolet.com
1-800-288-9288 • 1-800-615-3726
[email protected]

POST-SARS-COV-2 PANDEMIC WORLD
FEATURED ARTICLE
UV Technologies in the Post-

SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic World
T
he word crisis comes from the Greek “to having a crisis of its own on how to manage
separate, to sift, to decide.” As crises goes, the unfolding events. Consequently, a range of
one could put the COVID-19 pandemic increasingly strict measures were implemented
in the Top 10 – number one for the retail and from a ban on reusable bags to navigating the
Dr. Keith restaurant industry. Both sectors were hit hard one-way system of the pasta isle. There was
Warriner by the pandemic and had to quickly adapt to the little scientific evidence to support many of the
CPHAZ, “new normal” to work within the confines of the procedures introduced, and Public Health was a
Department of lockdown. The restaurant sector brought forward source of conflicting information. Nevertheless,
Food Science, online ordering and curbside pickup, then later in it was soon realized that introducing policy and
University the summer adopted the European style of eating procedures was easier compared to removing
of Guelph, out on patios. Retailers were overwhelmed by them. The summer saw a decline of new cases
Ontario panic buying while at the same time experiencing that gave retailers and restaurants time to think of
supply management issues, given that the food long-term strategies.
industry was put on pause. An additional
challenge to retailers is that they not only had an Among the common measures of hand washing,
increase of foot traffic, but they had to be seen to mask wearing and social distancing, is there a
protect customers along with workers. role for UV-based technologies? The industry
certainly observed some interesting UV-based
There was no pandemic playbook to go by, and interventions arising during the pandemic
many in the food industry looked to the Public as companies – some legitimate but others
Health Department for direction, which was opportunist – attempted to provide solutions.
Figure 1. Premier Doug Ford of Ontario decontaminates bags using the Clean Flow
process based on hydroxyl-radical generation from the UV-C photo-degradation of
hydrogen peroxide and ozone.
These ranged from robots harnessed with UV-C lamps UV-C wands
to UV-wands that could be used for spot disinfection. In Within the pandemic, the market was flooded with domestic
many instances there was no data to prove efficacy or safety UV-C wands or other personal disinfection units. The majority
protocols for application and maintenance. The customers in of UV devices (especially those based on LEDs) are likely
retail and restaurants asked few questions, given the crisis to be UV-A (400 nm) that exhibit negligible antimicrobial
for finding interventions to ensure their businesses would activity. Other devices based on UV-C lamps are likely to be
survive. low powered (2 mW/cm2), which requires extended exposure
times of 10 min to have any impact. However, in many
After the initial panic, more rational interventions were instances the manufacturer would suggest it can be waved
sought in an attempt to look at long term strategies that could over an area to magically make the surface sterile. Although
benefit beyond the pandemic and, at the very least, prepare such devices are relatively harmless, a concern is that when
better for the next. users encounter industrial-standard devices they may have
the same casual manner, thereby causing negative health
Revive the campaign effects. It is estimated that UV wands must deliver a dose of
against single-use plastics 20 to 100 mJ/cm2 to support adequate microbial reductions,
Early in the pandemic there was an immediate ban on thereby requiring relatively high UV intensity. To use these
reusable bags, despite having no evidence that people could devices, there is a need to wear protective equipment such
catch COVID-19 from reusable bags. The net result was to as gloves, full coverage clothing and eye protection to avoid
return to the plastic bag that everyone knows is bad for the contact with skin and eyes (Figure 2).
environment and went against the philosophy of sustainability.
By making a hasty decision, retailers are now not in position Room and other enclosed
for ways to welcome back reusable bags. The answer is to spaces disinfection
provide customers a service for decontaminating bags and The disinfection of rooms using UV-C has been widely
bins in a visual way but without needing to queue for an
excessive time. In this regard, a UV-C-based technology that
was adapted to rapidly decontaminate N95 masks would be
an ideal application. The technology is based on generating
hydroxyl-radicals from the UV-C degradation of hydrogen
peroxide. In one example, the items to be decontaminated
are passed through a conveyer where hydrogen peroxide mist
is introduced with simultaneous exposure to UV-C for 30
seconds (Figure 1). Critically, the technology can penetrate
shaded areas inaccessible to UV-C, thereby enabling
disinfection of a broad range of items.
In-store decontamination
of foods and packaging
Early in the pandemic there was a focus on the conveyance THE HEART AND SOUL OF YOUR UV BWTS EQUIPMENT
of SARS-CoV-2 on packaging and foods, with the Chinese – MADE IN GERMANY –
adding fuel to the fire by reporting positive tests on chicken
The heart: Our medium pressure UV lamps
in addition to seafood. A viral YouTube video suggested We develop and manufacture most powerful UV lamps to the highest quality
washing packaging and fresh produce in soap or leaving standards to achieve excellent lifetime and utmost UV efficiency.
groceries outside for 72 hours, waiting for the virus to die The soul: Our electronic lamp controls
off. Although many raccoons were grateful, it was clear at the The ELC® X series combines excellent lamp control performance with highest
reliability in marine environment applications.
time, and subsequently emerged, that transmission of viruses
Our highly flexible engineering and manufacturing guarantees perfect
from surfaces is low. Yet, UV tunnels were installed at integration into your UV ballast water treatment system.
retailers whereby foods and packages were passed through;
although, it was evident there was no consideration for safety
in relation to user exposure to UV-C light. The safety limit
of UV-C for eight hours is 6 mJ/cm2, which is equivalent to eta plus electronic gmbh
10 minutes in the sunlight with a UV index of 10. On this www.eta-uv.com
basis, there are benefits to UV-C disinfection for inactivating
common pathogens encountered on fresh produce and other
foods, but safety standards need to be met.

POST-SARS-COV-2 PANDEMIC WORLD
Air disinfection
and filtration
In the early days of the
pandemic the airborne route
of virus transmission was
dismissed to avoid panic buying
of masks that were needed by
frontline workers. However,
by June there was an abrupt
Figure 2. Examples of UV wands for domestic (left) and industrial applications
U-turn by Public Health to
recommend the use of masks,
even simple cloth masks. By
September, mask wearing
become widespread and a focal
point of contention.
With the acknowledgement of

airborne transmission of the
virus, there was a shift away
from surface sanitation to the
air. In the summer months the
promotion of outdoor activities
and eating on patios was
promoted. There was even talk
of holding classes outside when
students returned to schools.
Although there is frequent

reference of the SARS-CoV-2
being a novel virus, the reality
is that air disinfection has a
long history of use, with the
Figure 3. UV-C disinfection system to decontaminate the interior of subway
first systems being introduced
carriages in 1938 for controlling
tuberculosis. Within the air
disinfection sector, the efficacy
practiced within hospital surgery rooms, where high-intensity of systems is assessed based on Air-Changes-per Hour
UV is applied when unoccupied. During the pandemic, (ACH).
similar systems were applied in restaurants, subway
carriages and airline carriages (Figure 3). However, there For hospitals, the ACH ranges from six to 12. Simply
were misconceptions on how to apply the UV-C technologies recirculating the air is insufficient and will likely result in
and, more importantly, how to do so safely. Within hospital enhanced dissemination of the virus. Therefore, HEPA filters
applications the UV-C is used in combination with titanium are incorporated that should have sufficient filtration efficacy
dioxide paints that generate antimicrobial radicals to enable to capture the virus. The efficacy of HEPA filters is measured
shaded areas to be decontaminated. With applications in in MERV. Hospital systems use filters with 13 to 18 MERV.
non-hospital settings, the degree of shading limits the efficacy As one can imagine, the power requirement to move and filter
of UV-C, giving a false sense of decontaminating efficacy. In air is high, and that is correspondingly expensive. Domestic
addition, those applying UV-C have a perception of long- HEPA or induct UV lamps are considered an alternative,
lasting effects after treatment when there are no residual although the AHL is equivalent to two ACH.
antimicrobial effects. On occasion, users of high-intensity
UV would apply the units when the rooms were occupied, In comparison, an upper room UV system combined with
leading to exposure risk. This was evident by an incident in low ceiling fans can support an AHL of up to 24. An upper
the Philippines where 10 people suffered the effects of UV-C room UV system can treat air above 2.1 meters. Hence the
exposure during a demonstration of UV-C units in action. need for air management systems, such as fans. As with all
UV disinfection systems, the UV must be correctly fitted to
minimize light straying to the floor. This is achieved through
guards that ensure light is directed horizontally and upwards.
The disinfection of rooms using
It also is important that maintenance staff are properly trained
to install and maintain the lamps.
UV-C has been widely practiced
within hospital surgery rooms
where high-intensity UV is applied
The most common light sources for upper-level UV
treatment are low-pressure mercury lamps emitting at 254
when unoccupied.
nm. An estimated intensity of 17 mW/m3 is satisfactory to
decontaminate air, provided it is combined with adequate
circulation via fans that draw the air upwards.
There are systems based on Far-UV (222 nm) that have been If there is a silver lining, it is that the pandemic accelerated
installed directly above enclosed areas. It is reasoned that the the introduction of infection control technologies that had
shorter wavelengths are less penetrating in air and lack the hitherto been considered nonessential in the sector. In the time
energy to penetrate eyes or skin. However, there are concerns of crisis, it was encouraging to see UV-based technologies
of the longer wavelengths being emitted that includes UV-C. come to the fore, even though many systems introduced were
Of greater concern is the use of pulsed xenon UV lamps for air ineffective or hazardous. In the course of the second wave,
disinfection, especially with roaming robots, where exposure it can be anticipated that the science will prevail in a post-
of people in close proximity represents an unacceptable risk. COVID-19 world, with benefits extending into the future. n
To a bright future Contact: Dr. Keith Warriner, [email protected]

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic hit the retail and restaurant
sectors hard, forcing a pivot to take control of the new reality.
Do You Have the Right Tools for

Your SARS-CoV-2 Research?
PearlLab Beam™
Up to 3 simultaneous UV wavelengths
Range of selectable discrete wavelengths (254 - 410 nm)
Custom configurations available
Custom design for Jet Custom 96-well plate

Propulsion Laboratory - designed in collaboration
division of NASA with Tel Aviv University
www.aquisense.com | [email protected] | +1.859.869.4700

INDUSTRY NEWS
UV Lamp Consulting Adds assortment of UV-A (365 nm) and germicidal UV-C (254
Ray Tracing Optical Design nm) low-pressure CCFL lamps and LEDs, plus inverters and
UV Lamp Consulting, Fort Myers, Florida, consulting drivers to operate the light sources. For more information,
experts that cover all varieties of UV-C applications, has visit www.jkllamps.com.
announced the addition of Ray Tracing optical design to
its range of professional services. Effective ultraviolet UVC Photonics Releases UV-C Laser
system design requires skillful combination of several UVC Photonics, Oviedo, Florida, a maker of deep
areas of technical expertise: advanced optical simulation ultraviolet diode laser modules, has released the world’s
simplifies communication of one of the most complex design first deep ultraviolet
parameters, giving clear visualization of where UV power is lasers for disinfection and
delivered (or not). Rapid quantification of prototype efficacy sterilization applications
speeds optimization and reduces total development cost. For at 261 nm. The beam
more information, visit www.uvlampconsulting.com. allows for efficient system
architectures for the
NICHIA’S Latest UV-C LED Disinfection inactivation of pathogens
Efficacy Proven to Combat Viruses on surfaces, in the air and
NICHIA, Tokushima, Japan, an LED manufacturer, has in water. Because the beam is collimated, the light can be
launched its newest deep UV LED, the NCSU334B. The selectively targeted from a distance up to several meters to
UV-C LED technology high-use surfaces such as door handles, elevator buttons or
was tested at Tokushima keypads. In air or water applications, the collimation allows
University to demonstrate long path length interactions, which reduce the required
its bacteria and virus power. For more information, visit www.uvcphotonics.com.
disinfection efficiencies.
Experiments conducted by Biotek Shield Neutralizes
the university’s Graduate Airborne COVID-19 Virus
School of Biomedical Aero Biotek, Wichita, Kansas, has developed a virus-
Sciences confirmed that neutralizing system for fighting airborne contaminants. The
irradiating SARS-CoV-2 with NICHIA’S NCSU334B for 30 device, called Biotek Shield, is
seconds, with 51mJ/cm2, exhibited 99.99% inactivation, a designed to be installed in the air
key activation log to achieve. The experiment was operated conditioning system of vehicles
based of the NCSU334B’s binned input power and conditions or buildings and uses UV-C
of 1.7mJ/cm2 and 5 cm distance. For more information, visit (ultraviolet) light technology to
www.NICHIA.com. neutralize pathogens like bacteria
and viruses – including H1N1,
JKL Components Introduces GB-UV2 Kit SARS, West Nile, tuberculosis
JKL Components Corporation, Pacoima, California, has and coronavirus. Biotek Shield
introduced its UV Kit GB-UV2. The kit provides a range of operates silently and invisibly.
components needed for Aero Biotek has contracted with
product development a certified lab to test the effectiveness of Biotek Shield on
of equipment utilizing neutralizing easily communicable contaminants. Once testing
UV-A and UV-C is complete, the lab is expected to certify that the UV-C light
light sources. The used in Biotek Shield will neutralize 99.9999% of virus cells,
kit is intended for rendering the virus unable to replicate itself or infect humans.
designers seeking For more information, visit www.biotekshield.com.
small-scale UV sources
for confined space Pure Lighting Introduces First
applications, including Hybrid UV-C Fixture
disinfection chambers, Pure Lighting Company, Wayne, New Jersey, a maker of
biological analysis UV-C disinfection technologies, has launched a significant
equipment, document development in the new paradigm of pandemic-resistant
authentication and security ink recognition. UV-C and building practices. The Hybrid UVC Disinfection Fixture
UV-A technology product development for key industries provides 99.99% effective whole-room (surface and air)
including medical and dental, pharmaceutical, security and disinfection during times of non-occupancy and safe and
handheld sterilization. JKL’s UB-UV2 LED kit includes an effective air purification through three layers of disinfection.
It is now available
and has been designed
for use in high-
traffic commercial
facilities including
schools, universities,
offices, restaurants,
transportation hubs and places of worship. The Hybrid UVC
Disinfection Fixture is designed to provide comprehensive
disinfection treatments for areas of approximately 3,000 ft3.
By providing five- to 10-minute whole-room disinfection, the
fixture achieves 99% disinfection against exposed pathogens,
and via air purification during periods of occupancy it works
to maintain this high level of purity. For more information,
visit www.pure-lighting.com.
Tool Klean Presents

the UV Tabletop Lamp
Plainview, New York-based Tool Klean,
which develops UV light products that
are antimicrobial and kill germs on hand
tools, surfaces and in the air, now offers
the UV Tabletop Lamp, a powerful and
highly effective light with germ-killing
power. It has a 100-watt bulb and a
1,000 sq. ft. area of effect for optimal
sanitization. The lamp also includes a
built-in timer setting, allowing the user
to safely leave the room before the
lamp turns on. It is an excellent choice
for homes, business, medical facilities
and more. For more information, visit
www.toolklean.com.
AquiSense and NS Nanotech Collaborate

on Broadband UV Device
AquiSense Technologies, Erlanger, Kentucky, has partnered
with NS Nanotech on the development of the first solid-state
broadband UV research device. The device will be powered
by the world’s first UV lamp that is solid-state and emits
wavelengths from 200 nm to 400 nm, developed by NS
Nanotech. This device is critical for important research into
key disinfection wavelengths such as 220 nm (far UV-C),
254 to 280 nm (UV-C) and 290 to 400nm (UV-A and B). The
collaboration between the companies will offer researchers
reliable, low footprint tools as part of AquiSense’s PearlLab
Beam™ product line; one device to test all wavelengths
within the full UV spectrum and another focused on the
220 nm, or far UV region. For more information, visit
www.aquisense.com and www.nsnanotech.com. n
UV 101: OVERVIEW OF DISINFECTION
FEATURED ARTICLE
Ultraviolet Disinfection:
Background and Basics
U
ltraviolet (UV) light is commonly of their strong absorption, even by air. UV-A
used for disinfection. It inactivates wavelengths, which cause suntans and are used
microorganisms (including viruses) by in tanning salons (Nilsen et al. 2016), also are
Kari Sholtes, degrading their genetic material and structural commonly used for curing anything from inks or
Ph.D. molecules so that they are no longer infectious. coatings to adhesives and nail polish (Endruweit
instructor, UV light is commonly used for disinfecting 2006). The energy carried by light is inversely
CMU/CU water, air and surfaces; however, the wavelengths proportional to its wavelength; therefore, the
Boulder Civil that are most effective at inactivating microbes shorter the wavelength, the higher the energy.
Engineering, also are considered damaging to human skin and For this reason, UV-B radiation, at shorter
Colorado Mesa eyes. This article gives an overview, for general wavelengths than UV-A, has higher energy and
University audiences, of UV disinfection. carries a greater cancer risk in humans (NTP,
2016). Even higher-energy radiation in the UV-C
Richard What is UV light? band is most commonly used for disinfection.
Simons, Ph.D. Light can be described as both a particle and a The majority of microbes show a relative peak in
head of wave, a phenomenon known as wave-particle sensitivity to radiation around 265 nm, and so the
application duality. As a particle, massless photons carry light application of UV disinfection has targeted the
science, energy throughout the universe (at the speed of “germicidal” range around this peak.
AquiSense light). As a wave, the energy is radiated by smooth
Technologies oscillations of the electromagnetic field. UV Sources of UV light
radiation is on the short-wavelength side of the As with other types of light on the electromagnetic
Sara E. Beck,
electromagnetic spectrum, occupying the range spectrum, UV light is produced both naturally
Ph.D. from 100 to 400 nm. The UV range is further and artificially. Natural UV light comes from the
assistant subdivided into four categories: UV-A (315 nm to sun; some of which reaches the Earth’s surface,
professor, 400 nm), UV-B (280 nm to 315 nm), UV-C (200 and some is absorbed by the atmosphere. Due to
University nm to 280 nm) and vacuum UV (100 to 200 nm). strong absorption of higher-energy radiation in the
of British Vacuum UV wavelengths are so-named because upper atmosphere almost no solar UV-C reaches
Columbia
Babak Adeli,
Ph.D.
director of
R&D, Acuva
Technologies
Inc.
Zhe Sun,
Ph.D., post-
doc, Research
Center for Eco-
Environmental
Sciences,
Chinese
Academy of
Sciences
ISO 9001:2015 Registered
the Earth’s surface (ASTM G-173 2020); the spectrum of

solar radiation – commonly referred to by air mass (AM)
values – varies across the Earth’s surface.
Artificial UV light is produced primarily from plasma

discharge lamps and light-emitting diodes (LEDs), as well as
unintentional emissions from activities such as arc welding.
Plasma discharge lamps contain a gas mixture enclosed
inside a glass tube. As a voltage is applied to the lamp
filament, electrons within the enclosed gas are excited to a
higher energy state; as they fall back to the ground state, they
release that extra energy as a photon, which is a packet of
light energy. The spectrum, or wavelengths emitted, depends
on the elements of the gas inside. Common plasma discharge
lamps include mercury vapor lamps, metal halide lamps,
xenon lamps (pulsed UV), excimer and exciplex lamps, and
deuterium lamps.
Ultraviolet light emitting diodes (UV LEDs) are solid state

semiconductor devices. With an applied voltage, electrons
are pushed across an energy barrier (band gap) separating
differently charged layers within the LED crystal structure.
Once across the barrier, these electrons can lose the energy
gained in the transition and emit a photon. The choice of n HID/MPUV UVC & UVA
semiconducting materials used in the LED dictates the size - Press seal
of the barrier and therefore the wavelength of the photon - Neck down vacuum seal
emitted. Commercial UV LEDs are formed of thin crystalline
aluminum gallium nitride (AlGaN) layers deposited onto n Low Pressure UVC
a substrate (sapphire or aluminum nitride); the ratio of - Hard Quartz, Linear, Compact & Bent
aluminum to gallium in the thin layers determines the band - Soft Glass - Linear & Compact
gap and so the emission spectrum emitted by the LED. - Amalgam - Spot & Pellet Technology
(240W-1200W) {T5 to T12 dia.}
How does UV light inactivate
microorganisms? n UVC Lamps 185 nm, 254 nm
UV-C and UV-B light has a direct disinfection effect when its n UVB Lamps 295 nm, 310 nm, 320 nm
energy is absorbed by genetic material (limiting replication) n UVA Lamps 350 nm, 369 nm
or by other cellular or viral components such as a protein n Actinic Lamps 421 nm
(limiting attachment and infectivity). UV-B and UV-C n Low Pressure UVC, UVB, UVA
photons can directly alter chemical bonds within these key Sub Miniature CCFL’s (3.0mm to 6.0 mm dia.)
biomolecules, affecting their structure and function. Where
photons are absorbed by DNA/RNA the resulting damage can
inhibit the microorganism’s ability to replicate, rendering it no
longer infectious (Harm 1980).
UV light can also indirectly inactivate microbes at slower

rates than the direct damage caused by UV-B and UV-C
wavelengths. UV-A light enables disinfection by activating
naturally occurring constituents in water or target cells
which generate highly reactive chemical species, such
as hydroxyl radicals (Lester et al., 2013); these reactive
species can cause the degradation of chemical compounds
that would not be affected by direct UV photolysis. Though
the rate of disinfection from these UV-A wavelengths is
continued on page 36 www.light-sources.com
UV 101: OVERVIEW OF DISINFECTION

slower than that of direct damage by UV-B and UV-C rays,
UV light can inactivate microbes

it cannot be discounted as a technology due to the abundance
of free UV-A within sunlight (Besaratinia et al. 2011).
Because UV-induced damage impacts each microbe and its
components differently, applying various UV wavelengths to
in air, on surfaces (including
water, air, or surfaces containing multiple microbes could be
considered a more effective strategy than applying UV light
working surfaces, food products,
at only one wavelength. pharmaceuticals and packaging)
For pathogenic microbes the ability to reproduce is crucial and in water or other liquid.
for infection or invasion; therefore, measuring microbial
replication before and after treatment (inactivation) is a good
way of defining system efficacy. Inactivation is defined as the inactivation measured in the system to what was measured in
decrease in concentration of culturable microbes (Nt) from the calibration experiment, it is possible to assign a reduction
the starting concentration (No) as a result of exposure to a equivalent dose (RED). This is the average dose required to
disinfectant over a period of time (t) (Hijnen et al, 2006). achieve an equivalent inactivation as measured in the system.
A log10 value is usually used, for example, 1-log (90%),
2-log (99%), 3-log (99.9%), or 4-log (99.99%) inactivation. The RED of a UV system can be estimated by simulation
The use of standardized methods as described allows for but cannot be easily guessed. The generation and distribution
definition of a reduction equivalent UV dose (RED, mJ cm-2) from UV light sources is complex in nature. Propagation
from a measured inactivation, which can be employed as a of light through a system requires accurate description
performance metric for UV disinfection systems. of numerous optical interfaces and geometric features. In
addition, fluids may be cloudy (turbid) and cause the light to
Using UV light to disinfect be scattered; local fluid flow paths strongly affect residence
fluids and surfaces times at different points, causing jet streams or trapping flow
UV light can inactivate microbes in air, on surfaces (including within vortices. Even within the relatively simpler case of
working surfaces, food products, pharmaceuticals and surface irradiation, rough surfaces can introduce shadowing
packaging) and in water or other liquids. Chemical or physical effects that must be considered. Parameters, such as humidity,
(i.e., heat) disinfectants require a certain concentration and also show a considerable effect on the inactivation of surface-
contact time or temperature to be reached to inactivate a bound microbes.
target microbe. Similarly, the degree of UV disinfection is
governed by degree of UV exposure of the target microbe. Inactivation of the same microbial species can vary from
Furthermore, the wavelength of that UV radiation and the wavelength to wavelength. For example, the inactivation of
microbe itself will impact the overall inactivation. adenovirus, a common cold virus, is 16 times greater at 210
nm than at 254 nm (Beck et al. 2014). Equivalent systems may
The degree of UV exposure is expressed as a UV dose (mJ impart dramatically different inactivation effects depending
cm-2, more correctly termed “fluence”), which is the amount on the target microbes being exposed. The susceptibility
of UV light delivered to the target microbe. UV dose is of microbes to UV radiation differs significantly (Beck et
the product of UV irradiance and exposure time, meaning al., 2015). For example, parasitic worm eggs are highly
that a higher UV dose could be delivered by increasing the resistant to UV light, whereas protozoa such as Giardia and
intensity of UV light, increasing the exposure time, or both. Cryptosporidium are highly sensitive (Hijnen et al, 2006).
Within real-world systems, any individual microbe will not The most sensitive virus known (Bacteriophage T4) is about
necessarily experience the same UV dose as any other microbe 75 times more susceptible than the most resistant virus
during its exposure. For fluids (generally air and water), known (Infectious Pancreatic Necrosis Virus, IPNV) under
this is due to a combination of uneven delivery of UV light UV radiation at 254 nm (Malayeri et al. 2016). Bacteria
(irradiance) throughout the treatment volume and differences are typically highly susceptible to UV radiation, though
in flow paths of the fluid through the system. For surfaces, extremophiles such as D. radiodurans can be orders of
this is due to non-uniform UV exposure across the surface magnitude more resistant (Pogoda 2005).
of interest. When looking at the overall system performance,
an average log inactivation will be measured. In a separate The wavelength of applied germicidal light is another
test, using well-calibrated equipment, the irradiance and characteristic that must be considered. As discussed
flow paths are tightly controlled, and a dose-response curve previously, different wavelengths (UV-A, UV-B, UV-C) can
is created to show the measured log inactivation of a microbe cause different photochemical reactions and target different
for a set of applied UV doses. By comparing the average cellular processes. However, even within these bands, the
efficiency of these photochemical reactions varies. This in the eyes (photokeratitis). Recent studies indicate that
variation in efficiency is described by the “germicidal action far UV-C (200 to 225 nm) may provide germicidal effects
spectrum,” or spectral sensitivity, of the target microbe, and without damaging the skin or eyes; the IUVA has published
though variation is seen between microbes, a common feature a review of this technology for further reading (Simons et
is a broad peak about 265 nm, tailing to near-zero about 300 al. 2020).
nm on the longer-wavelength side and falling to ~50% around
240 nm. Some microbes, especially viruses, show a greatly Working safely with UV means understanding the physics of
increased susceptibility to shorter UV-C wavelengths (Beck the source (wavelength, power, distance), the chemistry of
et al. 2014), leading to interest in the potential of so-called the target (ozone generation, material degradation, volatile
“far UV-C” disinfection (Simons et al. 2020). compounds) and the conditions of the exposure (PPE, time,
shielding, safety interlocks). Follow institutional guidelines
Safety where appropriate, and, if in doubt, use caution to avoid
As with disinfection potential, the hazard of UV radiation unnecessary human exposure and sufficiently cover the
varies with both wavelength and exposure. The risks skin and eyes. More complete discussion of UV safety
associated with each UV source should be considered before considerations is provided in CIE 187:2010 (CIE, 2010),
use; reputable manufacturers will provide guidance for 2006/25/EC (European Parliament, 2006), and US NTP 14th
safe use. Report on Carcinogens (NTP, 2016). n
When using germicidal UV sources, safe practices are For full list of references, visit www.uvsolutionsmag.com.
required to protect any person who may be exposed. UV
radiation is hazardous to the skin and eyes, and proper Contact: Kari Sholtes, [email protected]; Richard
personal protective equipment (PPE) is often recommended; Simons, [email protected]; Sara E. Beck, sara.
common symptoms of UV overexposure are sunburn-like [email protected]; Babak Adeli, [email protected]; Zhe
reactions in skin (erythema) and a painful, itchy condition Sun, [email protected]
UV and LED lighting solutions

!
om
n.c
all Visit
designed for your unique specifications

so
an
Our solutions, which include UV ballasts for water and air purification systems,
w.
ww
work across a number of applications, and are constantly growing to include

UV-LED. We will also work closely with you to develop custom built
components that are specific to your project needs.
W
NE
5W s
2 x 9 mp
r La
Cat. No: Fo HO
UVB180WHO-120-277V
New Higher Power
UV Ballast in same compact size!
UVBallasts LED Power

Supplies
LED Kitchen
Hood Fixtures
www.allanson.com | [email protected]
T: 1.800.668.9162 | F: 416.752.6717
83 Commerce Valley Dr. E., Markham, ON Canada

COVID-19 DOSE RESPONSE SUMMARY
FEATURED ARTICLE
Illustration of SARS-CoV-2 courtesy of US FDA
SARS-CoV-2 Dose Response

Research Status Update
S
Oliver Lawal ince its emergence in 2019, SARS-CoV-2, The first documented infections from a novel virus,
CEO, the virus behind the pandemic, has had a a member of the Coronaviridae family, occurred in
AquiSense global impact. Solutions for controlling Wuhan province, China, in December 2019.
Technologies the virus are urgently needed to reduce its spread,
and UV light is known to inactivate all pathogens By January 2020, the infection was identified to
Richard given a sufficient dose. The UV dose response of be the result of a new virus, which was originally
Simons, Ph.D. SARS-CoV-2 is needed to effectively apply this named 2019-nCov by the WHO and later named
head of technology and fight the pandemic. As with other severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2
application pathogens, this relationship can vary based on (SARS-CoV-2), as it will be referred to in the rest
science, wavelength, UV lamp type and virus strain. of this review. It can be spread through respiratory
AquiSense droplets or via contact with infected surfaces.1 In
Technologies This article reviews the status of research into the an effort to reduce its spread, many have tried to
dose response relationship, covering published interrupt transmission by inactivating the virus ex
Anna Herman data from numerous sources. The wide range vivo.
applications of experimental procedures applied leads to
engineer, substantial variability across the literature, Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a common method
AquiSense although a convergence toward three conclusions of disinfection and is popular for its lack of
Technologies can be seen: chemicals and effectiveness against all known
microorganisms. It can be used on surfaces,
Jennifer • UV-C radiation can reduce infectivity of aerosolized particles or water, and is energy
Pagan, Ph.D. SARS-CoV-2 to a high degree. efficient. The UV spectrum spans wavelengths
CTO, • Variation in susceptibility across the UV-C from 100 to 400 nm, but the UV-C range (200
AquiSense spectrum is relatively small (though more to 280 nm) displays the strongest disinfecting
Technologies work is needed in this area). properties.2 Many different sources, including
• The D90 of SARS-CoV-2 (90% reduction) low- or medium-pressure mercury lamps (LP
is very likely to be in the range 1 to 5 mJ/ and MP) and light emitting diodes (LEDs) can be
cm2. used to produce UV-C light.
To quantify the inactivation properties of UV light, a
dose response relationship is needed. The inactivation is
commonly presented as a log reduction value (LRV):
Where NO is the starting concentration of a pathogen and N

is the concentration of the pathogen after exposure; common
units in viral studies are PFU/mL or TCID50/mL. In surface
exposure studies, UV dose [mJ/cm2] is the product of UV
irradiance across the exposed sample [mW/cm2] and the
exposure time [s]; where the target pathogen is suspended in
a fluid (air, water, etc.) UV dose (fluence) definitions become
more complex.
The PearlLab Beam is an example of a UV light

source used in SARS-CoV-2 research. Image
courtesy of AquiSense.
This review summarizes work that has been completed or

is in progress to study the UV dose response relationship of
SARS-CoV-2. First, completed research is summarized and
categorized based on the wavelength and UV source. Ongoing
studies are then highlighted to display which research areas
are still in progress. Finally, gaps in current research are
identified and future research goals are discussed.
Published research
This section outlines studies that have been completed on the
dose response relationship for SARS-CoV-2 and UV light.
These studies have taken place globally and cover a variety
of wavelengths, types of samples, culture methodologies and
UV sources. As with all disinfection technologies, context
matters, and it is known that relative humidity, inoculum
composition, surface texture and reflectivity, in addition to
many other factors, can impact treatment efficacy. Therefore,
differences in approaches to inoculation, exposure and
continued on page 40 ZED Ziegler Electronic Devices GmbH, Germany
(++49)3677 468 030 | [email protected] | www.z-e-d.com
Table 1. Completed studies on SARS-CoV-2 and similar pathogen UV dose response relationships. Fields
marked “-” indicate that the data was not provided in the source.
Study Source Target Outcome Comments

SARS-CoV-2
Inagaki et al., (2020) Rapid 37.5 mJ/cm2; >3-log “Tailing” at high inactivation,
UV-C LED (280 nm) (Diamond Princess
inactivation of SARS-CoV-2... (>99.9%) overestimates UV dose at 3-log
cruise ship, Japan)
Patterson et al., (2020)

UVP CL-1000 (254 40 mJ/cm2; >7-log Manufacturer data used for dose
Methods of inactivation of SARS-CoV-2
nm) (>99.99999%) calculation
SARS-CoV-2…
Sagripanti & Lytle, (2020)
0.69 mJ/cm2; 1-log Model-based estimation from
Estimated Inactivation of N/A (254 nm) SARS-CoV-2
(90%) comparable ssRNA viruses
Coronaviruses…
Darnell et al., (2004) LP Hg, assumed 1445 mJ/cm2; >5-log Uncertainty on accuracy of stated
SARS-CoV-1 (CDC)
Inactivation of the coronavirus… (254 nm) (>99.999%) irradiance
Kariwa, Fuji & Takashima,
“Biosafety cabinet” SARS-CoV-1 (Hanoi 120.6 mJ/cm2; >5-log
(2006) Inactivation of SARS “Tailing” at high inactivation
(254 nm, assumed) strain) (>99.999%)
Coronavirus…
Buonanno et al., (2020) Far- Filtered KrCl* (222 HCoV-229E and 1.25 mJ/cm2; >3-log Aerosolized particles in well-
UVC light (222 nm) efficiently… nm) HCoV-OC43 (>99.9%) designed flow chamber
Bedell, Buchaklian & Perlman,
Surfacide UV-C - mJ/cm2; >5.9-log
(2016) Efficacy of an MHV, MERS-CoV Irradiance/dose not stated
System (254 nm) (>99.999%)
Automated Multiple Emitter…
Ansaldi et al., (2004) SARS-
LP Hg, assumed 4,800 mJ/cm2; Undefined initial concentration and
CoV, influenza A, and syncytial SARS-CoV-1
(254 nm) “complete inactivation” radiometric reporting
respiratory virus…
Heilingloh et al. (2020) SARS-CoV-2
Herolab UV-4 S/L 1,048 mJ/cm2; >6-log Unclearly defined irradiance across
Susceptibility of SARS-CoV-2 (University Hospital
(254 nm) (>99.9999%) sample
to UV irradiation Essen)
[267nm, 279 nm] 6 - 7
Gerchman et al., (2020) UV- mJ/cm2;
UV-C LEDs (267, 279, Detailed measurement and reporting
LED disinfection of Coronavirus: HCoV-OC43 [286 nm] 13 mJ/cm2;
286, 297 nm) of exposure, uniformity and UVT
Wavelength effect [297 nm] 32 mJ/cm2;
3-log (99.9%)
Pendyala, Patras, D’Souza,
Genomic model (254 Estimated from comparable
(2020) Genomic modeling as SARS-CoV-2 0.21 mJ/cm2; 1-log (90%)
nm) coronaviruses
an approach…
Storm et al., (2020) Rapid and [wet] 7.6 mJ/cm2 Clear UV exposure design; useful
complete inactivation of SARS- LP Hg (254 nm) SARS-CoV-2 [dried] 4.2 mJ/cm2; ~3- comparison between wet and dried
CoV-2… log (~99.9%) droplets
Stanley Electric Co. (2020) 5.1 mJ/cm2; 3-log Press release only;
UV-C LED (265 nm) SARS-CoV-2
Confirmation of effectiveness… (>99.9%) not peer-reviewed
Kitagawa et al., (2020)
Ushio Care222™ (222 3 mJ/cm2; >2.5-log
Effectiveness of 222-nm SARS-CoV-2 Good UV exposure design
nm) (>99.6%)
ultraviolet…
Simmons et al. (2020)
Xenon flash lamp - mJ/cm2; >4-log
Disinfection effect of pulsed SARS-CoV-2 Irradiance at sample not reported
(200-280 nm) (>99.99%)
xenon ultraviolet…
hCoV-19/Italy/
Criscuolo et al. (2020) Fast 1,620 mJ/cm2; >3-log Unclear irradiance:
LP Hg (254 nm) UniSRI/2020
inactivation of SARS-CoV-2… (>99.9%) not measured in situ
(SARS-CoV-2)
LP Hg, assumed Potential UV shielding by suspension
Duan et al., (2003) Stability of SARS-CoV (P9, 324 mJ/cm2; >6-log
(254 nm, cited as matrix; unclear reporting of exposure
SARS Coronavirus… Beijing) (>99.99%)
260 nm) details
Heßling et al., (2020) Coronaviruses in
Ultraviolet irradiation doses for N/A (254 nm) general 3.7 mJ/cm2; 1-log (>90%) Literature review
coronavirus inactivation… (incl. SARS-CoV-2)
Nichia Corporation, (2020)
51 mJ/cm2; >4-log Press release only;
Nichia’s Latest UV-C LED UV-C LED (280 nm) SARS-CoV-2
(>99.99%) not peer- reviewed
Disinfection…
Kitagawa, et al. (2021) Effect of Ushio Care222™ (222 15 mJ/cm2; ~4.5-log Dose-reciprocity study;
SARS-CoV-2
intermittent irradiation… nm) (>99.99%) good UV exposure design
Crystal IS Inc., (2020) Crystal IS UV-C LED (260, 268, 5 mJ/cm2; 2.8-log Press release only;
SARS-CoV-2
and Boston University… 270 nm) (>99.8%) not peer-reviewed
recovery are likely to result in legitimate variation in Future research goals and conclusion
inactivation. Numerous studies have been completed on SARS-CoV-2 and
similar coronaviruses; however, variations in experimental
However, in reviewing the literature around SARS-CoV-2, set-ups and UV wavelengths, and incomplete dose data leave
and coronaviruses more generally, results were seen to researchers without a clear and consistent dose response
vary by many orders of magnitude. Some of the more relationship. Studies reporting exposure time only and not
extreme differences in dose response values appear to be irradiance or intensity limit the ability to derive true UV dose
the consequence of improper exposure, measurement of that values.
exposure and correction for known phenomena.
Low-pressure mercury vapor and KrCl* excimer lamps are
For example, not all studies reported irradiance measurements the most commonly studied UV sources, although other
and none of the studies reported accounting for surface UV sources such as UV-C LEDs and pulsed UV also are
reflection of UV radiation at the air-water interface. That presented. Among high-quality studies, there appears to
said, there are some studies of high quality within this review be good agreement of UV dose response values across the
that provide detailed method description. UV-C spectrum, indicating that wavelength does not play a
substantial role in disinfection efficacy. However, further work
A summary analysis of the methodology applied in each is required to refine this understanding to build transferability
publication is included within the online version of this of inactivation studies across the UV-C spectrum.
article, with a list of those publications provided in Table 1.
Most importantly, future tests must be vigilant in recording
Current research the methods used and the actual dose applied, not simply
Table 2 summarizes publications currently in preprint but that exposure time so the tests can be replicated. While there is
have not yet passed peer review. Many other studies likely
are occurring, but their data is not yet publicly available. continued on page 43
UV Lamp Drivers Nedap lamp driver technology is used in

world’s most advanced UV treatment plants
for clean water,

and systems.
✓ High efﬁciency
air & surface ✓

✓
✓
UL Approved
Analog and digital controls
Pre-programmed lamp characteristic
settings for optimal lamp life
8.3 billion liters of clean
water a day for the
Big Apple
Nedap UVineo: Intelligent multiple lamp

and rack mounted solution for low pressure
lamps up to 1000W
World leader in UV lamp driver technology www.nedap-uv.com

ICULTA
2021 a l
g v i r t u
g oin
Virtual International Conference on

UV LED Technologies & Applications
ICULTA 2021
April 19–20, 2021
Once more, ICULTA will bring together pioneers, leaders, and experts from science and
industry to discuss latest progress and innovations in the development of UV LEDs
and their broad spectrum of applications. Due to the Corona pandemic, the conference
takes place one year later than originally planned and as a virtual event.
Be part of ICULTA 2021 as attendee, exhibitor, and/or sponsor.

› For two days, ICULTA 2021 features oral and poster presentations as well as
many networking opportunities.
Discuss the state-of-the-art in UV LED technology and cutting-edge topics

like disinfection and sterilization in the medical environment, especially
with UVC LEDs in the context of COVID-19.
› The conference comprises plenary lectures on deep UV LEDs and their application
for disinfection and water purification as well as future prospects of this versatile
technology and approaches towards standardization.
Exchange ideas with UV LED developers and users from a wide range of
fields, from medical diagnostics and plant growth lighting to analytics and
sensor technology to curing of materials.
› Talks by internationally recognized speakers have already been confirmed.
Stay up to date!
www.ICULTA.com Jointly organized by
Table 2. Preprint publications investigating SARS-CoV-2 inactivation by UV light; not yet peer-reviewed
Title Authors Description Preprint or Press Release
Bianco, A., Biasin, M., LP Hg (254 nm) used to irradiate

UV-C irradiation Pareschi, G., Cavalieri, A., SARS-CoV-2 samples with an
is highly effective Cavatorta, C., Fenizia, , average intensity of 1.082 mW/cm2 https://www.medrxiv.org/co
in inactivating and Galli, P., Lessio, L., Lualdi, for 5, 23 or 114 s. 3-log inactivation ntent/10.1101/2020.06.05.20
inhibiting SARS-CoV-2 M., Redaelli, E., Saulle, I., achieved following 3.7 mJ/cm2 123463v2
replication Trabattoni, D., Zanutta, A., exposure, complete inhibition at 16.9
Clerici, M. mJ/cm2.
Soluva pro UV Disinfection Chamber

and Soluva pro UV 90 Disinfection
Rapid and efficient
Handheld (Heraeus, 254 nm) used https://www.biorxiv.org/co
inactivation of surface Ruetalo, N., Businger, R.,
to irradiate samples of SARS-CoV-2. ntent/10.1101/2020.09.22.30
dried SARS-CoV-2 by Schindler, M.
Doses of 0.66 mJ/cm2 were shown 8098v1
UV-C irradiation
to completely inactivate the virus
(>6-log inactivation).
much work left to be done, the UV community is on the right This article is presented in a shortened format for the
track to gather the needed data and work together to stop the UV Solutions print copy. To view the full article, including
spread of SARS-CoV-2. data and references,visit www.uvsolutionsmag.com.
Acknowledgements Contact: Oliver Lawal, [email protected];

The authors wish to acknowledge the support of all named Richard Simons, [email protected]; Anna
researchers for generously providing details of their Herman, [email protected]; Jennifer Pagan,
important work. n [email protected]

APPLICATION HIGHLIGHT: UV DISINFECTION FOR HEALTHCARE
Keeping Nursing Home Staff,

Residents Safe During Pandemic
Chelsey
Clapper
VP of
marketing
and design,
iCleanse
F
or so long, nursing homes and long- ramping up testing efforts to ensure those who are
term care facilities have been plagued infected are quarantined in a timely manner.
with various virus out breaks. Their
generally older demographic and confined spaces The use of technology
make them highly susceptible to acquiring and in healthcare
transmitting viruses amongst each other. The healthcare industry is burdened with the
challenges of healthcare-acquired infections
The COVID-19 pandemic has been particularly (HAIs) amongst patients. It is estimated that
difficult for these communities, having seen nearly 700,000 HAI’s occur in the United States
record numbers of deaths in the nursing home each year1 and nearly 100,000 patients die
sector. Keeping this vulnerable population because of those infections.2
healthy has been caregivers’ number one priority.
New guidelines have been put in place to ensure Nurses and physicians are increasingly using
that patients and staff are safe and are not at risk technology like tablets in their day-to-day work.
of spreading viruses. Some of these new safety Upwards of 87% of physicians employ mobile
measures include social distancing, decreasing the devices in their workplace.3 Tablets help save time
number of outside visitors, making sure common between patients by being able to quickly input
spaces are regularly cleaned and disinfected, and patient information or view needed information.
They also are used for speedy patient check-ins and keeping
track of visitors inside facilities.
Nurses and physicians are increasingly
During the COVID-19 pandemic, tablets have been used in
nursing homes for residents to communicate with their loved
using technology like tablets in their
ones. Many states and organizations have allocated funds or
donated tablets so that residents have access to video chat
day-to-day work. Upwards of 87% of
apps, as well as apps to keep up morale. With this increased physicians employ mobile devices in
their workplace.3
use of technology there is an increased risk of transmitting
viruses. Proper disinfection of these mobile devices is
essential to keeping those working and living in nursing
homes safe. It also is important that proper handwashing is
being utilized. Unwashed or semi-washed hands increase the
risk of contaminating a disinfected mobile device.4 that 100% of parents’ cellphones brought in housed bacteria.
Ninety percent of parents’ hands had the same bacteria
Chemical vs. UV light disinfection as their cellphones. The same study revealed that 94% of
Chemical disinfection of high-touch surfaces is standard in parents used their cellphone at the baby’s bedside.10
most healthcare settings. Traditional disinfecting, though,
offers several challenges to ensuring that high-touch surfaces The University of Vermont implemented the technology
are properly disinfected. into its NICU, to reduce the number of bacteria brought in.
Parents’ cellphones were disinfected for 60 seconds while they
Sufficient contact time is one of the most challenging washed their hands to prepare for the visit. Charles Micelli of
requirements for chemical disinfection. Contact times vary UVM-MC said, “The proliferation of mobile devices helps
depending on the product and can take anywhere from one streamline access to our information but also introduces
to 10 minutes to be effective. This requires that the entire a roaming high-touch surface into our environment. The
surface area be wet for the period of time stated on the label.5 devices have provided us an additional method to facilitate
effective disinfection of these mobile devices.”
Ultraviolet light is an electromagnetic wave that is invisible
to the human eye, located between X-rays and visible light. Most recently, Athena Health Care Systems partnered with
UV-C light in the 200 nm to 300 nm range can be deadly iCleanse in providing another layer of safety and infection
to microorganisms. When the DNA of bacteria, viruses and control to their 51 nursing homes in New England. For
pathogens absorb this light, it renders them inert and unable over three decades, Athena Health Care Systems, based
to replicate.6 Pathogens cannot infect if they cannot replicate. in Farmington, Connecticut, has been a regional leader in
providing skilled nursing care; short-term, post-hospital
Applying the correct dosage of UV-C light is required to rehabilitation; assisted and senior living; as well as home
ensure complete inactivation of pathogens. Higher exposure health, hospice care and private duty program services.
to UV-C light ensures that nucleic acid is damaged beyond
repair.7 UV-C disinfection provides lower risk of error, unlike “The units have been well-received and greatly appreciated
chemical disinfection, which relies on an operator to ensure by the teams at our centers,” said Larry Santilli, president
adequate results.8 and CEO of Athena Health Care Systems. Santilli added:
“Nursing homes across the country have been significantly
How iCleanse helps those most vulnerable impacted by COVID-19, and Athena Health Care Systems has
iCleanse (formerly ReadyDock), provides chemical-free gone to extraordinary lengths to provide protection, whether
UV-C disinfection of mobile devices for smartphones and in the forms of PPE or the newest technology in the units, to
tablets. The intent is to take the guesswork out of disinfecting ensure the health and safety of our staff. The units provide
and ensure that roaming high-touch surfaces are disinfected not only another level of infection prevention, but they also
frequently. Designed to control the disinfection process, provide peace of mind for our dedicated, compassionate
iCleanse is engineered to ensure that disinfection happens caregivers. Chris Allen and his team have developed a great
the same way every time. Results from studies show that, tool to complement our expanding infection prevention
in a 60-second cycle, the technology kills >99.99% of the program.” n
bacteria on mobile devices.9
For a full list of references, visit www.uvsolutionsmag.com.
A study at the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at the
University of Vermont Medical Center (UVM-MC), shows Contact: Chelsey Clapper, [email protected]

FLUOROPOLYMERS IN STERILIZATION
FEATURED ARTICLE
Use of Fluoropolymers
in UV Sterilization Equipment
I
n an increasingly regulated and safety- of +200°C and low temperatures of -200°C. As
conscious world, the threat of contamination such, FEP does not become degraded by the heat
is ever growing. As a result, UV sterilization or ultraviolet rays emitted by the lamps and does
Samantha
equipment is becoming more and more important not brittle or discolor when used with the strong
Deverell for the medical, pharmaceutical, and food and light over time. The fluoropolymer also outlasts
managing drink industries. Used to help disinfect drinking the life of UV lamps.
director, water, sterilize food contact surfaces and hospital
Adtech equipment, and diagnose a range of medical In terms of light transmittance, FEP is comparable
Polymer conditions, fluoroethylene propylene (FEP) is to quartz. Their refractive indices are 1.344 for
Engineering variable in production of components for UV FEP and 1.553 for quartz. But while quartz needs
sterilization equipment. to be handled carefully and can easily be damaged,
FEP is strong and durable, and when coated onto
FEP for UV sterilization lamps, can make them shatterproof. All in all, FEP
Given the high strength of ultraviolet rays, most is the ideal material to produce components for
polymers are not suited to UV sterilization. UV sterilization equipment.
Various polymers have been tried over the years,
and most general-purpose polymers were found Minimal degradation in UV-C
to be useless. These polymers absorb the strong transmittance of fluoropolymers
light, age with each dose of UV radiation and UV lamp manufacturer Light Sources conducted
are damaged by the ultraviolet rays, becoming a research on the aging of fluoropolymer heat
discolored and brittle. shrink sleeves used on UV-C lamps. The main
objective was to understand the long-term change
The most successful polymers for UV sterilization in transmission of fluoropolymer heat shrink
have proved to be fluoropolymers containing high exposed to intense UV-C radiation. As part of this
amounts of -CF2 and -CF3 in their molecule chain, research, Adtech Polymer Engineering’s FEP heat
and the very best appear to be the completely shrink sleeve was tested.
fluorinated polymers.
In research, various FEP and PFA heat shrink
Fluoroethylene propylene (FEP) is inert to sleeves were tested on different UV lamps of
ultraviolet rays and has a low absorption different power levels, from amalgam to 400 mA
rate for UV. The fluoropolymer is nonstick, and 800 mA lamps. The lamps were operated for
bio-compatible, sturdy, and has a high tensile up to 8,000 hours, which accounts for half the
strength able to withstand high temperatures average lifetime.
Images 1 and 2. Flanged microbore FEP tube (left) and FEP retractable coil.
The research found fluoropolymer heat
shrink sleeves minimally degrade after
8,000 hours. The UV-C transmittance
degradation amounted to approximately
3 to 7% on amalgam lamps and 0 to
3% on standard and high output lamps.
The research also found that the power
density affects degradation. For amalgam
lamps, degradation is accelerated by the
additional heat and the increased UV-C
rays.
While the test was only carried out for

8,000 hours, the research showed that the
UV-C transmittance degradation leveled
off to an approximately linear rate after Graph 1. Spectral transmission measurements of Adtech FEP heat
2,000 hours, and thus doesn’t expect shrink aged on 2-amp amalgam lamps ©LightSources
further degradation is not expected for
the remainder of the lifetime of the lamp.
No aging difference was found between
the use of FEP or PFA material.
Nominal loss in UV-A

transmission
of fluoropolymers
Fluoropolymer manufacturer Adtech
Polymer Engineering conducted a test
on the transmittance of fluoropolymer
heat shrink sleeves used on UV-A lamps.
Widely used for electronic insect traps
in the pest control market, UV-A lamp
coatings allow glass and mercury to be
safely contained when breakage occurs.
Graph 2. Spectral transmission measurements of Adtech FEP heat
The aim of this study was to measure shrink aged on 400mA lamps ©LightSources
the loss in UV-A transmission of
fluoropolymer heat shrink. As part of
this research, Adtech's FEP heat shrink
sleeves were tested by the National
Radiological Protection Board in the
United Kingdom.
The following test method was

developed. A standard cylindrical UV-A
lamp was mounted in a holder and a
calibrated UV radiometer mounted
with its sensing head 25 mm from the
surface of the lamp. As the output of UV
lamps varies significantly over time, the
research deemed it important to use one
lamp for all tests and not turn the lamp
off in between testing sessions.
Graph 3. Spectral transmission measurements of Adtech FEP heat
shrink aged on 800mA lamps ©LightSources

FLUOROPOLYMERS IN STERILIZATION

Coatings were removed from lamps and reapplied to the
standard lamp by making a join on the lamp opposite to the
sensor head. The various coatings were quickly applied and
removed this way, yet the lamp remained on and the sensor
and the lamp did not move from their relative positions.
Readings were taken as one minute total dose of UV-A,

made alternatively on the various samples. This was repeated
six times, including with the lamp uncovered as a control
measure. The results of the test indicate that a single sample
of FEP heat shrink coating with a 0.25 mm thickness causes
a loss of approximately 3 to 4% of UV-A transmission, while
two samples of coating equating a nominal thickness of 0.5
mm caused approximately 7.5% loss of UV-A.
Custom formed FEP tube used for UV-C lamp
FEP products used in UV coating
sterilization applications
Used to deliver liquids either in front or around UV-C lamps
to sterilize their content – as well as to cover UV lamps, created a tight seal over the lamp, thus preventing leaks when
making them shatterproof and ensuring compliance in glass the component was submerged under water.
free environments – FEP products play a crucial role in
providing a safe environment. For this project, FEP was chosen as it is inert to ultraviolet
rays, does not become brittle or discolored over time and
Mostly used in UV sterilization equipment, FEP tubes and does not affect the output of the lamp. To fit the application
FEP heat shrink sleeving are available in many sizes and in precisely, the tube was formed with a flat tip at one end of the
different wall thicknesses. Using thermoforming technology, component and a pre-formed collar section at the open end.
FEP retractable coils are formed from a range of FEP tubes
and specialist fittings can be added. Where the application Custom-flanged FEP assembly
allows, a 0.25 mm thick coating is recommended, as it gives for water sterilization application
the best transmission performance. Adtech Polymer Engineering was approached by a customer
looking to create a bespoke assembly for use with a water
In addition, UV lamp coatings cover UV-C sterilization sterilization application. To orient the delivery tube neatly
lamps, UV-A insect lamps and fluorescent lamps in all lamp within the external housing and around the electronic
configurations, from straight to compact, circline and tight components within the device, the custom component needed
U-bend styles. Lamp coatings allow glass and mercury to be to be reformed to apply a flange at one end and various bends
safely contained when breakage occurs and ensure lamps are along the length.
IEC61549 compliant.
The custom-flanged FEP assembly was manufactured using
Custom-formed FEP tube used a tube available from stock. A 15 mm diameter flange was
for UV-C lamp coating formed at one end and three different angled bends were
Adtech Polymer Engineering worked with a UV-C sterilization formed along the length of the tube. The flange diameter was
customer to create a custom UV-C lamp cover. The coating tricky to produce, as it was at the top end of what is usually
needed to follow strict criteria to fit the application precisely achievable on a tube of this size.
and meet the requirements for electronics submerged under
water. Given it was used in a UV-C sterilization application, Used in a UV-C sterilization application, the assembly
the material used for the UV-C lamp cover needed to be inert needed to be inert to UV-C and allow a good transmission
to ultraviolet rays and allow a good transmission rate. The rate. As such, FEP was chosen as it is inert to ultraviolet rays
coating also needed to be a nominal thickness of 1.5 mm to and does not become brittle or discolored over time, unlike
meet the electrical compliance requirements. other general-purpose plastics. n
To cover the lamp and meet the project criteria, a custom For the full UV-C and UV-A transmittance research reports,
formed non-shrink FEP tube was created to be push-fitted visit https://adtech.co.uk/.
over the UV-C lamp. The tube cover was easy to apply as part
of the customer’s production process. In addition, the cover Contact: Samantha Deverell, [email protected]
UV Solutions is seeking
article submissions.
News releases, product
announcements, application
notes and more are welcome.
Email [email protected].
Join IUVA now...

...to help advance the sciences, engineering and
applications of ultraviolet technologies to enhance the
quality of life and protect the environment.
Benefits of membership include:

Magazine Websites
Each quarterly issue of The websites – www.iuva.org
UV Solutions contains: and www.uvsolutionsmag.com
• Technical articles – include valuable information
for those interested in
• Industry news ultraviolet technology.
• Calendar of events
To learn more about IUVA, visit

www.iuva.org
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
March 15-25
36th Annual WateReuse Symposium Due to ongoing coronavirus concerns,
Virtual
some event dates may shift or change
April 19-20 to a virtual format. Please check event
websites for the most up-to-date
ICULTA 2021
Virtual
information.
June 7-8
IUVA World Congress
Virtual
June 13-16
ACE 21
San Diego, CA
AD INDEX
Allanson Lighting Technologies Inc. ......................... allanson.com ................................................................................. 37
American Ultraviolet ......................................................... americanultraviolet.com.......................................................... 27
AquiSense Technologies ................................................. aquisense.com .............................................................................. 31
Atlantic Ultraviolet ............................................................. ultraviolet.com ............................................................................. 33
AWWA ACE21 ...................................................................... awwa.org/ace ............................................................................. IFC
Boston Electronics............................................................. boselec.com .................................................................................. 23
Cleanbox................................................................................. cleanboxtech.com ....................................................................IBC
eta plus .................................................................................... eta-uv.com ..................................................................................... 29
Fulham..................................................................................... fulham.com / annia-lite.com ....................................................11
GenUV ..................................................................................... geni-uv.com .................................................................................... 19
iCleanse ................................................................................... icleanse.com.....................................................................................3
ICULTA ..................................................................................... iculta.com ....................................................................................... 42
International Ultraviolet Association ........................ iuva.org ............................................................................................49
LightSources, Inc. ............................................................... light-sources.com ....................................................................... 35
Nedap ...................................................................................... nedap-uv.com................................................................................ 41
Neotec UV ............................................................................. neotecuv.com ............................................................................... 26
Nichia ....................................................................................... nichia.com ....................................................................................... 21
Olympia Lighting, Inc. ...................................................... olympialighting.com ....................................................................7
Philips ....................................................................................... philips.com/uv-c ........................................................................ BC
TES ............................................................................................ hites.co.kr/eng ............................................................................... 17
Tru-D® SmartUVC ............................................................... tru-d.com ......................................................................................... 15
UV Lamp Consulting ........................................................ uvlampconsulting.com................................................................9
UV Solutions ......................................................................... uvsolutionsmag.com .................................................................49
UV-Technik............................................................................. uvtechnik.com ..............................................................................20
ZED ........................................................................................... z-e-d.com ....................................................................................... 39
•
uvsolutionsmag.com
@cleanboxtech 2021 Quarter 1 | 51
cleanboxtech.com | [email protected]
UV-C disinfection
UV-C disinfection with

the power of light
The risk of diseases from viruses and
bacteria is ever present. On the things
we touch. In the air we breathe. With
a 35-year proven track record, Philips
UV-C lamps are a fast, effective way to
disinfect pathogens. A unique coating
ensures their output never drops below
85% over the useful life of the lamp - in
professional or residential applications.
Disinfect air and surfaces with the
power of UV-C light.
Find out more at

Philips TUV PL-L Philips TUV T8 Philips TUV TL Mini www.philips.com/uv-c

UV Solutions

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

UV Solutions

Uploaded by

Document Information

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

UV Solutions

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

2021 Quarter 1

Official Publication of the International Ultraviolet Association

Join us in person or online Learn more at awwa.org/ace

28 UV Technologies in the Post-SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic World

34 Ultraviolet Disinfection: Background and Basics

38 SARS-CoV-2 Dose Response Research Status Update

46 Use of Fluoropolymers in UV Sterilization Equipment

Read the latest articles from

Executive Operating Editorial Board Editor-in-Chief Published by:

uvsolutionsmag.com 2021 Quarter 1 |5

FROM THE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Olympia’s patent-pending UVC Air Disinfection solutions

IUVA Achieving Win/Win Success

New draft standards

Other exciting developments

Thanks to the efforts and perseverance

Guzman Hopefully this will lead to an MOU

uvsolutionsmag.com 2021 Quarter 1 |9

Opportunities on the Horizon

Research and development

UV technologies to address CECs remain prevalent in

PFAS have strong, characteristic carbon-fluorine bonds,

While many knowledge gaps currently exist in the realm of

The “One Water” column seeks to highlight the application

Contact: Cassidy Yates, [email protected];

Are Food Contact Surfaces

better biologically and chemically

uvsolutionsmag.com 2021 Quarter 1 | 13

First UV/H2O2 AOP Systems

PLACEMENT Tru-D’s patented Sensor360 ®

technology destroys pathogens throughout an entire

CYCLE Tru-D’s reﬂected UVC dose is validated by

GOAL Adding Tru-D’s enhanced UVC disinfection

uvsolutionsmag.com 2021 Quarter 1 | 15

continued from page 15

Driven by these challenges, with the support of

Dosimeter badges are used in many industries and

Before any testing began, the collimated beams LPHO UV

Figure 1b. DB-B was a UV Intensity Label by UV

Alternatively, DB-B covers a range of UV light, including

Two UV devices were used in testing the usefulness of both

For example, the known irradiance was determined to be

Stackable height adjusters (SHA) were used to conveniently

Each dosimeter badge then was placed under the collimated

Figure 3. DB-B under the collimated beam at set

the process of the collimated beam irradiating onto the

Table 1 shows the photos taken of each object in either

One key difference between the dosimeter badges found

Both dosimeter badges consistently read dose values that

Along with this, dosimeter badges can be used to generally

It is important when selecting a dosimeter badge for

uvsolutionsmag.com 2021 Quarter 1 | 23

Atlantic Ultraviolet Corporation

uvsolutionsmag.com 2021 Quarter 1 | 25

IUVA Welcomes New Board Members

• Natalie Hull, The Ohio State University

• Development of a Standard Protocol for the

Swain is now working with a local government in India to

Updates from the IUVA YP Committee

FOOD & BEVERAGE HVAC