Multi-Stacked UVC-LED Based Water Disinfection System

Drinking water often contains unsafe levels of toxic contaminants including bacteria, viruses and protozoa. Common disinfectants include chlorine and mercury-based UVC lamps. However, chlorine is not widely available in all parts of the world, and mercury-based UVC systems don’t typically provide uniform distribution of UV irradiation through the entire reactor volume. Further, there is a risk of mercury-based lamps breaking and releasing toxic mercury into treated water.

 

Researchers at Arizona State University have developed a novel, compact, multi-stackable UVC-LED based water disinfection system to assure safe drinking water. The design of this system maximizes UV exposure for effective disinfection. Traditional mercury-based lamps and stainless-steel housings have been replaced with affordable materials such as plastic, ceramics or 3D-printed polymers, reducing costs while maintaining high microbial reduction. The form factor and cost make this system potentially valuable in regions of the world where chlorine is not readily available for water treatment or during natural disasters/emergencies. Additionally, its low energy consumption and compatibility with solar or battery power make it ideal for remote or off-grid areas.

 

This technology provides for an innovative, cost-effective UVC-LED water sterilization system designed for efficient and sustainable disinfection that can be deployed worldwide.