A new device that uses UV-C radiation instead of chemicals to destroy viruses and bacteria is now available to disinfect smartphones, tablets, and other sensitive devices. The current studies show that the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 can survive on plastic, metal, and other smooth surfaces for up to three days under optimal conditions. While it is still unclear whether the dose taken from a contaminated surface is sufficient to trigger a smear infection with the virus, regular disinfection has become established out of fear of infection with objects such as shopping carts. However, conventional disinfectants cannot be used on electronic devices such as smartphones and tablets because the sensitive display film is attacked by the agents. This is particularly problematic because technology has become part of everyday life, including in medicine, where it easily comes into contact with viruses and bacteria. Therefore, regular disinfection is essential to prevent the spread of diseases.
Scientists at the Fraunhofer Institute for Optronics, System Technology, and Image Evaluation IOSB have developed a technical solution that destroys viruses on sensitive devices with UV-C light. The device consists of a tray for a tablet or smartphone surrounded by 20 UV-C LEDs with a wavelength of 269 nanometers. The power is 100 milliwatts each, or a total of two watts. According to the scientists, 800 joules per square meter of UV radiation are emitted within a few seconds, killing all bacteria and viruses. The innovative device could be used in the future in hospitals, nursing homes, and other areas with particularly vulnerable people to disinfect devices in seconds.
Thomas Westerhoff, one of the scientists, explains that the innovative device could be used in the future in hospitals, nursing homes, and other areas with particularly vulnerable people to disinfect devices in seconds. The LEDs offer significant advantages, as the scientists have demonstrated excellently in the example of smartphone disinfection. A prototype of the device will unfortunately only be publicly presented in September 2020. Currently, the developers are looking for an industry partner who can produce the device in large quantities.
