Semiconductor Ultraviolet Irradiation Devices for Greenhouse Crops

We propose developing, manufacturing, fielding and validating environmentally friendly, energy efficient revolutionary ultraviolet irradiation devices (UID) to improve nutritional value of greenhouse crops. UIDs will be based on a new technology to produce deep ultraviolet semiconductor Light Emitting Diodes (DUV LEDs) with emission wavelengths below 300 nm. DUV LEDs can be designed and manufactured to emit radiation in those parts of the UV spectrum that are most efficient at triggering the synthesis and accumulation of plant flavonoids, a broad class of polyphenolic anti-oxidants important for human nutrition and health. Unlike conventional sources of UV radiation such as Mercury lamps, DUV LEDs do not contain any hazardous or toxic materials and emit in a very narrow spectral range, which substantially reduce the amount of wasted light compared to broadband sources. UID design for volume production will be optimized through extensive testing of plant cultivation and post-harvest treatment in greenhouse environment.