ORGANISM GROWTH SUPPRESSION USING ULTRAVIOLET RADIATION

摘要

A solution for suppressing organism growth using ultraviolet radiation generated by solid state ultraviolet radiation emitters, such as ultraviolet diodes is provided. The invention includes a connection structure that includes a plurality of solid state ultraviolet radiation emitters disposed thereon. Each of the plurality of solid state ultraviolet radiation emitters emits ultraviolet radiation having a wavelength less than or equal to four hundred nanometers to harm a target organism that may be present on a surface. In one embodiment, the connection structure comprises a two-dimensional mesh that may be placed adjacent an air filter, incorporated in a cover, and/or moved with respect to a surface, such as the interior of an air duct. In this manner, the invention can suppress and/or prevent the growth of organisms, such as biofilms and mold, in locations that are susceptible to such growth.