UV and Infrared LEDs
UV LEDs:
UV LEDs (ultraviolet light-emitting diodes) emit radiation in the range of approx. 100–405 nm. This short-wave light is more energetic than visible light. UVA (315–405 nm) and UVC (100–280 nm) are particularly relevant from a technical perspective. Compared to conventional UV lamps, UV LEDs offer advantages such as low energy consumption, long service life, compact design, instant switchability, and no mercury.
Common areas of application:
- Disinfection
UVC LEDs inactivate bacteria, viruses, and fungi by damaging their DNA/RNA. Applications include the sterilization of surfaces, air, and water, e.g., in medicine, laboratories, or treatment systems.
- Industrial curing (UV curing)
UVA LEDs cure light-reactive materials such as adhesives, paints, printing inks, and resins through photochemical polymerization. This enables fast processes with low heat load.
- Analytics and forensics
UV light stimulates fluorescence and makes traces or material characteristics visible. This is used in forensics, material testing, and authenticity checks for documents and banknotes.
- Medicine and biotechnology
Used in sterilization, fluorescence-based diagnostic procedures, and molecular biological analyses.
IR-LEDs:
IR LEDs emit infrared light that is invisible to the human eye. Their big advantage lies in their inconspicuous data transmission and night vision capabilities.
Common areas of application:
- Remote Control for wireless control
- Surveillance and security technology such as night vision cameras and motion detectors.
- Optical data transmission in certain networks (e.g. IrDA) enables the wireless transmission of data over short distances.
- Medical sensors
