Solar-Powered UV-LEDs for Microbial Disinfection: Design, Challenges and Applications

Ultraviolet-Light Emitting Diodes (UV-LEDs) application as sustainable and effective microbial deactivation in healthcare, water treatment, food safety, and surface disinfection has increased recently. This paper explores the feasibility, design, and performance of a solar-powered UV-LED system for microbial deactivation. It emphasizes the use of UV-C LEDs (200–280 nm) for their efficacy in reducing pathogens. Our study addresses the design considerations for integrating solar panels, charge controllers, batteries, UV-LEDs, and sensors to develop an efficient and safe disinfection system. Recent test-results from a 275 nm UV LED system show promising reductions in bacteriophages Phi6 and MS2. That signifies potential applications in water purification, surface sterilization, and emergency settings. However, challenges such as low wall plug efficiency and fabrication difficulties for short-wavelength LEDs need to be addressed to realize the full potential of such technology.