Prototype of an Autonomous Solar-Powered UV-LED Disinfection System for Off-Grid Applications

UV radiation, particularly in 200–300 nm range, has been proven to effectively deactivate harmful pathogens in diverse environments, including air, water, and surfaces. This paper introduces a prototype of an off-grid, automatic, solar-powered UV-LED disinfection system, offering a sustainable solution to global health and environmental challenges. Designed for use even in areas lacking infrastructure, this system provides an ecofriendly alternative to traditional chemical and electricity disinfection methods. This prototype features a solar panel, a charge controller, a dual battery system, a programmable timer, a motion sensor with adjustable delay time, and UV-LEDs with peak emission of 275 nm, mounted within a safety cabinet. The energy consumption of the UV-LEDs system is approximately 50 Wh/day. Once fully charged, the battery backup can provide about 307.2 Wh, sufficient for 6.14 days of operation without sunlight. The design and operational parameters of the system were rigorously tested, confirming its capability to efficiently manage energy and deliver consistent UV doses necessary for effective microbial deactivation. This innovation aligns with sustainable development goals and offers scalable technology for widespread application, in real-world settings from residential to community buildings, providing significant benefits during health crises and in regions with limited infrastructure.