Project „ToLED“

The aim of the project was to implement UVC/blue light irradiation for chemical-free disinfection of the interior of restrooms. Suitable LEDs in the wavelength ranges of 260 to 280 nm and 400 to 450 nm were characterized. Relevant microorganisms were selected and established to demonstrate the disinfection efficacy of the irradiation. The antimicrobial efficacy of the LED irradiation was investigated and quantified. To determine the achievable light intensity in the functional model, measurement methods were modified and irradiance simulations were conducted. Selected construction materials were tested for their sensitivity to UV and blue light irradiation. Methods were developed and successfully applied to optimally demonstrate the disinfection efficacy in the restroom areas (water seal, surfaces, and aerosol. The test results enabled the design and construction of a functional model by the project partner PURION GmbH. Through application of LED modules in the functional prototype, it was demonstrated that disinfection in the range of 4 log levels throughout the entire restroom interior is feasible within seconds using the built-in UVC LEDs. The situation is somewhat different with the disinfection of the toilet seat using blue light LEDs. Here, continuous irradiation in the low irradiance range is proposed – which can also be decorative.

AIF Projekt GmbH, Central Innovation Program for SMEs (ZIM), BMWK, Cooperation Project (KF), FKZ: ZF 4186523DF9