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Ultraviolet germicidal irradiation: future directions for air disinfection and building applications
Shelly L Miller1, Jacqueline Linnes, Julia Luongo
1Mechanical Engineering, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO, USA. shelly.miller@colorado.edu
Abstract:
Ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) for air disinfection applications has relied on low-pressure mercury vapor lamps for decades. New design requirements have generated the need for alternatives in some uses. This study describes the current state of UVGI technology and describes future directions for technology development, including the use of lamps produced from nontoxic materials and light-emitting diode lamps. Important applications are discussed such as the use of ultraviolet germicidal lamps in developing countries, in heating, ventilating and air-conditioning systems to improve energy efficiency and indoor air quality, and for whole room disinfection.
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