Feasibility and Assessment of Applying Ultra Violet Germicidal Irradiation (UVGI) Systems Aboard U.S. Navy Ships
Abstract
This thesis explores the feasibility of using ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) to help clean the air aboard U.S. Navy ships. Recent airborne-related infections on naval vessels, including the COVID-19 outbreak aboard a United States aircraft carrier, highlight the need to improve disinfection techniques used aboard naval vessels. Application of 200-280 nm wavelength UVC light to the ship's heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC) system in using specific exposure profiles makes inactivation and termination of airborne pathogens possible. Research has shown that UVGI is also successful at destroying biological warfare agents such as anthrax. Proper implementation of UVGI within a ship's ventilation system and in-room spaces can achieve high disinfection rates of airborne pathogens, reduce airborne-related illnesses, and increase operational availability. Commercial maritime employment of UVGI is also instructive. Recommendations include completing a multi-disciplinary design effort to install commercial-based prototypes on naval ships.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 2022
- Accession Number
- AD1173252
Entities
People
- Jonathan R. Burnette
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School