The use of short wavelength ultraviolet light to disinfect surfaces is a well-established technique commonly used to sterilise medical equipment and unpopulated spaces. These light sources are however often bulky, inefficient, contain toxic materials such as mercury, and the light generated can be harmful to human eyes and skin.
Using low-cost, scalable materials and processes, TMD Technologies, in partnership with Brunel University London, proposed to develop a flat-panel far-UVC source capable of generating light at a wavelength proven harmless to humans, while being efficient against bacteria and viruses including the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2).
This device will allow widespread installation in public spaces where pathogen transmission is a heightened risk, effectively reducing the rate of spread and benefiting the national public health.
This project resulted in field emission devices being manufactured, tested and evaluated, that demonstrate a working UV field emission device that is safe for further large scale commercial development.