Suitability of ultraviolet (A)-light emitting diode for air stream disinfection

J Med Invest. 2009 Aug;56(3-4):150-6. doi: 10.2152/jmi.56.150.

Abstract

We previously developed a high powered light-emitting diode device capable of discharging germicidal ultraviolet irradiation (UVA-LED) at an approximate wavelength of 365 nm. This study examined the bactericidal activity of UVA-LED in moving air streams. Aerosols of Escherichia coli DH5alpha were exposed to UVA-LED irradiation using a stable current (0.5 A and 1.2 mW/cm(2)) or pulse current (1.0 A and 0.2 mW/cm(2)). Settle plate analysis was used for bioaerosol sampling, where results were expressed as Colony Forming Units. A -3 Log inactivation of the E. coli population occurred after 75 minutes of constant exposure to stable current. The pulse current produced inactivation within a similar timeframe. Our results might be significant as a basic study for further investigations about the effect of UVA-LED on airborne bacteria and its suitability for air disinfection applications.

Publication types

  • Evaluation Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Aerosols
  • Air Microbiology*
  • Air Pollution, Indoor
  • Disinfection / instrumentation*
  • Escherichia coli / radiation effects
  • Humans
  • Sick Building Syndrome / microbiology
  • Sick Building Syndrome / prevention & control
  • Ultraviolet Rays*

Substances

  • Aerosols