Standalone Solar-Powered Ultraviolet Mobile Disinfectant: Bringing Solar Energy in the Global Fight against COVID-19

Abstract

As the first initiative of its kind in Algeria, here is presented a solar-powered mobile “Ultraviolet Germicidal Irradiation” disinfection unit (UVGI) based on a special germicidal ultraviolet-C (UVC) radiator. The system was designed to disinfect several objects such as: medical tools, reusable masks, face-shields, gloves, phones, laptops, keys, money and many other portable devices that need to be disinfected/sterilized. It offers the advantage of complete autonomy through the built-in photovoltaic (PV) system that includes a solar panel, a gel battery, a charge controller and a power inverter. The system provides an extra 220V-50Hz outlet with 375VA maximum power to be used when energy is needed. The system is easily scalable to generate higher ultraviolet dosages by adding more UVC lamps. The chemical-free germicidal UVC sanitizing method employed by this device effectively disactivates a very wide range of microorganisms (microbes, bacteria and fungi and viruses including the actual SARS-CoV-2 that causes COVID-19 respiratory disease) and it has several advantages in comparison to chemical-based sanitizing methods. The total cost to make this open source device is below 1000 € and is easily customizable and scalable. This device is an open source, secure and fast equipment for objects and surface disinfection. The device will be fully automated by adding PIR sensors or remote control after further funding will be received.

Elucidating the role of environmental management of forests, air quality, solid waste and wastewater on the dissemination of SARS-CoV-2

“…Even though UV is effective to disinfect indoor air from SARS-CoV-2, its application is recommended in all possible directions to reduce potential infectivity from shielded particles ( Doughty et al, 2021 ; Hill et al, 2021 ). Furthermore, a preprint by Mahammedi and Mahammedi (2020) proposed a solar powered UV mobile disinfectant which can be individualised to specific regions and scales.…”

COVIDSAVIOR: A Novel Sensor-Fusion and Deep Learning Based Framework for Virus Outbreaks

“…However, the presented system did not discuss any scanning approaches for humans ( 25 ). Mahammedi et al ( 26 ) have presented a novel solar power-based system to disinfect things such as mobile, key, wallet, and many more. However, the system did not possess the capability to perform any kind of scanning.…”

Reducing non-residential asset sanitisation water footprint for improved public health in water-deficient cities

“…Future integration of the UVGI-cleaning hardware with localised renewable energy generation to fulfil the energy demand through evidence-based professional design and installations would further improve the sustainability of the intervention measure. A chemical-free low-cost, solar-powered mobile UVGIGI disinfection unit has already been prototyped to disinfect a wide range of microorganisms (microbes, bacteria and fungi, and viruses including the actual SARS-CoV-2 (Mahammedi & Mahammedi 2020). More work is indeed required to develop some best practice in performance and energy efficiency of this integrated approach and appropriate use of the UVGI technology through real-world feasibility assessment, specifically to alleviate the dependence on precious water resources in developing countries.…”

“…In order to overcome the water and resource requirement for chemical-based sanitising methods, alternative solar-powered mobile UVGI disinfection units are already being developed. These units combine the advantages of using abundant solar energy and UVGI disinfection capabilities, offering complete autonomy for off-grid applications through the builtin photovoltaic (PV) system that includes a solar panel (Mahammedi & Mahammedi 2020).…”