Characterizing ultraviolet germicidal irradiance luminaires

Area of Science:

• Photometry and Radiometry
• Infection Control
• Optical Engineering

Background:

• Upper-room germicidal ultraviolet (UVGI) systems require precise irradiance control to effectively disinfect air while minimizing human exposure.
• Accurate characterization of UVGI luminaires is essential for predicting irradiation levels and ensuring safety.
• Existing methods often rely on complex ray-tracing, necessitating detailed source data.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a laboratory experimental approach for determining the spatial radiant intensity distribution of UVGI luminaires.
• To validate the laboratory-derived characterization by comparing it with in situ measurements.
• To provide accurate data for computer-aided design (CAD) of UVGI systems.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing a gonioradiometer to measure the spatial radiant intensity distribution of the UVGI luminaire.
• Performing laboratory experiments to derive the luminaire's radiant characteristics.
• Conducting in situ characterization of the UVGI luminaire and comparing results with gonioradiometric data.

Main Results:

• The study successfully derived the radiant intensity distribution of a UVGI luminaire using a laboratory experimental approach.
• Comparison between laboratory-derived and in situ measurements demonstrated the validity of the experimental method.
• Accurate gonioradiometer readings provide essential data for CAD and calculation of isoirradiance surfaces.

Conclusions:

• A practical laboratory method for characterizing UVGI luminaires has been established.
• The derived radiant intensity distribution data is critical for optimizing UVGI system performance and safety.
• This approach enhances the accuracy of UVGI design and implementation for effective microbial control.