Comparison of Legionella pneumophila and Pseudomonas fluorescens Quantification Methods for Assessing UV LED Disinfection

Abstract

This study assesses the efficacy of ultraviolet light-emitting diodes (UV LEDs) for deactivating Legionella pneumophila (pure culture) and Pseudomonas fluorescens (pure culture and biofilms) on relevant drinking water distribution system surfaces (cast iron and stainless steel). UV LED treatment at 280 nm demonstrated superior performance compared to that at 365 nm, achieving a 4.8 log reduction value (LRV) for P. fluorescens pure cultures and, for biofilms, 4.02 LRV for stainless steel and 2.96 LRV for cast iron at 280 nm. Conversely, the results were less effective at 365 nm, with suspected photolytic reactions on cast iron. Quantification of L. pneumophila yielded varying results: 4 LRV using standard plate counts, 1.8 LRV with Legiolert, and 1 LRV with quantitative polymerase chain reaction at 280 nm, while the results were less than 1.5 LRV at 365 nm. This study provides insights into managing opportunistic pathogens and biofilms, emphasizing the need for improved quantification tools to better assess treatment efficacy.