In the past few years, UV LEDs have witnessed significant transformation due to technological advances in solid-state UV devices and rising demand for sustainable production of UV light. They offer dynamic advantages such as the ability to operate at lower temperatures, cost efficiency, antimicrobial property, and longer lifespan. These abilities make them a perfect alternative to conventional mercury lamps. The applications of this technology have expanded from forensic, counterfeit, and curing to medical phototherapy, sterilization, and indoor gardening.
The core technologies in UV LEDs are UV A, UV B, and UV C. Among these types, UVC LED possesses high microbial activity, and it can efficiently decompose multiple micropollutants. According to the report by Allied Market Research, the UV LED market is expected to register an impressive CAGR of 19.4% throughout the forecast timeframe.
Growing acceptance of UV LEDs as a disinfectant in the FoodTec operations
Conventional disinfection technologies used in the food industry can alter product quality, leading to potential health risks, reduced consumer acceptance, and overall quality degradation. To overcome these issues, food companies are adopting UV LED technology for microbial inactivation in solid and liquid food products. Combining multiple UV LED treatments of different wavelengths lowers the microbial count and prevents cell multiplication. The mechanism is based on its potential to destroy the RNA or DNA of fungi, viruses, and bacteria via the interaction between genetic material and UV photons.
UV-based AOP (Advanced Oxidation Process) effectively degrades micropollutants and has exceptional germicidal activity against different microbes. UV C lamps integrated into air handling units sterilize the surrounding air to lower the chance of airborne contamination. This light is also utilized to sanitize surfaces including equipment, preparation areas, and packaging areas.
Enhancing skin recovery with UVB lights
The dermatology sector is rapidly incorporating UV LED-based therapies due to the faster recovery rate and satisfactory results. One of the advanced treatment options is band UVB skin treatment. Researchers have discovered that UV rays with a wavelength of around 310 nm effectively treat skin conditions ranging from chronic actinic dermatitis, and polymorphous light eruption, to pityriasis rosea, and vitiligo. The therapy accelerates the skin’s growth and enhances its metabolism.
UVB band is also used in the healthcare sector. Once the human body interacts with this band, it causes a photochemical reaction between the body and the photovoltaic. The reaction regulates nerve function, lowers blood pressure, and enhances sleep.
World’s first UV-C LED autonomous robot by Otsaw
Otsaw Digital Pte. Ltd., the Robotics manufacturer, launched the O-RX, the world’s first Disinfection autonomous robot based on UV-C LED technology in June 2020. Otsaw registered the patent for this innovative discovery. The company developed the fully operational model only in eight weeks. The O-RX has gone through rigorous safety testing under different conditions. It has achieved the TUV SUD international certification. The O-RX integrates UV-C LED technology, which possesses high antimicrobial properties. It is also non-cancerous and safe for human skin.
The robot has lidar sensors and a 360-degree camera along with AI, collision avoidance, and self-driving ability. The O-RX can be managed and controlled remotely through a fleet management control system developed by Otsaw.
Nichia revealed UV A and UV B LEDs in March 2024
Nichia, inventor of the high-brightness blue and white LED and the world’s largest LED manufacturer started manufacturing the latest UV-A (330nm) and UV-B (308nm) LEDs in its 434 Series package. The 308nm UV-B LED also controls insect pests (e.g. spider mites) and diseases (e.g. powdery mildew) by illuminating strawberries and other crops by using UV rays. The freshly launched UV-A LEDs and UV-B offer excellent outputs of 100mW and 90mW at 350mA, that maximize flux density.
Final words
UV LED has a longer lifespan, antimicrobial properties, cost-effectiveness, and the ability to operate at lower temperatures. With these properties, they are replacing conventional mercury lamps in multiple industries. However, larger industries including food technology and skincare are rapidly integrating these UV LEDs into their operations due to their antimicrobial nature.
Author Bio– Gayatri Mohite is an emerging author who loves to explore new things. An addiction to reading motivates her to write. With a background in biotechnology and a passion for clear, concise writing, she has written multiple articles and editorials that inform and engage readers across various industries. A fresher who is constantly upgrading her skills has embarked on a new journey to touch up her expertise even more.
