Light-emitting diodes that emit ultraviolet radiation can be used to disinfect surfaces, air and water quickly, in an environmentally friendly manner and without chemicals. They can also be used to inactivate corona viruses and other pathogens such as multi-resistant germs. Another advantage of UV LEDs is that the emitted wavelength can be adjusted between 210 and 400 nanometers. This opens up many other possible applications, for example for medical prevention and for the diagnosis and treatment of diseases. They are also used for rapid curing of composites, adhesives and paints, as well as in environmental analysis, sensor technology and the life sciences.

Although UV LEDs are already used in many applications, there is still a considerable need for research and technology development. Close coordination between the developers of the components and the end users in the various areas of application is a prerequisite for innovative ideas to be implemented quickly. Decisive for market access are legal regulations and standards for the use of the new components and technologies.

Faster development through a competent network

The association “Advanced UV for Life e.V.” which has now been founded bundles the competencies from industry and science along the entire value chain – from the concept to the UV semiconductor to its application. This is also reflected in the list of founding members. The association builds on the eight years of experience of the consortium of the same name, which was funded by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research as part of the “Zwanzig20” program. “The goal is to promote and accelerate the technical advancement of UV radiation sources and UV sensors, in particular LEDs, photodiodes and laser diodes, and their deployment accelerate their use,” says Prof Michael Kneissl. He is chairman of the association, whose office is located at the Ferdinand Braun Institute in Berlin. The association creates the communication and cooperation platform to discuss technological and scientific issues and to initiate development projects and research projects. 

To ensure that environmentally friendly and economical UV technologies become more widely accepted, the association aims to provide the public, politicians and the media with comprehensive information on the new products and services. It also participates in technical bodies and committees to help initiate legislation, standards and other regulations.   

In addition to Prof Kneissl (Technical University of Berlin and Ferdinand Braun Institute) as chairman, Prof Michael Heuken (Aixtron SE), Dr Martin Straßburg (Osram Opto Semiconductors), Thomas Westerhoff (Fraunhofer Gesellschaft) and Dr Olaf Brodersen (CiS Forschungsinstitut für Mikrosensorik). The board is supported by an internal advisory board of nine members, who represent the various fields of work as specialists.

Be part of it!

With its foundation, the association invites companies and research institutions, idea providers and experts, UV-interested parties and networkers to jointly build up a powerful association, to think outside the box and thus to advance new UV technologies faster together. All companies and scientific institutions active in this field as well as interested individuals can become members. Further information on membership in the association can be found on the website advanceduv.de/verein.