High Power UVC Light Emitting Diodes for Disinfection Applications

Based on the successful completion of the Phase II effort that demonstrated state-of-the-art UVC LEDs with emission around 265 nm and output power of 25 mW (unpackaged device), a continuation of this effort is proposed. The objectives of the sequential Phase II effort will focus on (a) improving the developed UVC LEDs in terms of efficiency and output power, (b) demonstration of novel packaging schemes that take advantage of the high thermal conductivity of AlN substrates with the goal to achieve unmatched current and optical power densities, and (c) establishing a packaged single chip UVC LED with > 150 mW output power and wall plug efficiency > 20%, (d) demonstration of multi-chip UVC LEDs with > 600 mW output power, and (e) integration of the developed LEDs with mobile water disinfection systems. By achieving these objectives, the Army and other DoD partners will be able to build a new class of low cost, durable, and deployable water purification systems that increase the safety and maintain readiness of its deployed personnel.