Hazards Caused by UV Rays of Xenon Light Based High Performance Solar Simulators

Area of Science:

• Optical Engineering
• Occupational Safety and Health
• Solar Energy Research

Background:

• Solar furnaces and high-flux solar simulators (HFSSs) are vital for solar-chemical processes and component testing.
• HFSSs, utilizing xenon lamps, mimic natural sunlight but emit hazardous ultraviolet radiation (UVR).
• Increasing global construction of HFSSs necessitates robust safety protocols against UVR exposure.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantify ultraviolet radiation (UVR) emissions from high-flux solar simulators (HFSSs).
• To assess the biological hazard potential of UVR exposure during HFSS operations.
• To inform safety measures for protecting personnel working with HFSS technology.

Main Methods:

• UV measurements conducted at DLR (Cologne) and PSI (Switzerland) using a precision UV-A/B radiometer.
• Measurements taken during normal HFSS operations across various experiment setups and power levels.
• Systematic investigation of biological effects to determine hazard potential from UVR.

Main Results:

• Permissible workplace exposure limits for UV emissions were significantly exceeded within seconds.
• One critical UV measurement exceeded the safe limit by a factor of 770.
• Identified substantial risks associated with HFSS operation due to high UVR levels.

Conclusions:

• Prioritize structural engineering controls to prevent UVR emissions from HFSS.
• Establish and enforce clear protocols for monitoring UVR exposure and compliance.
• Mandate protective measures for skin and eyes during short-term work in HFSS hazard zones.