SKZ research project on disinfecting irradiation of plastic surfaces
UV-C disinfection protects against germs - but how resistant are plastics or other materials to this radiation? The SKZ Plastics Center develops practical test cycles that provide companies with reliable data on material resistance.
The disinfection of surfaces using UV-C radiation is becoming increasingly important worldwide - especially in areas with high public traffic or intensive hand contact such as aircraft cabins, rental vehicles or electronic devices. Disinfection with UV-C radiation offers many advantages, such as high speed, cost efficiency, effectiveness, a wide range of applications and chemical-free disinfection. However, there is a downside: UV-C radiation can damage plastics if they are not modified or not modified sufficiently and can significantly shorten their service life. Until now, there has been a lack of standardized test cycles that take into account the actual conditions of use and realistically simulate accelerated ageing. The SKZ is taking up this challenge and would like to launch the research project "Development of application-dependent UVC sterilization tests for plastic products (UVC test)". The aim is to develop a practical test cycle that takes into account the interaction of irradiance, dose and dark phases. This should provide companies with reliable data on the resistance of their products to UV-C radiation in the future.
Research project on UVC sterilization tests for plastic products
Current standards such as BIFMA HCF 81-201X or ASTM G224-23 only provide a rough framework for UV-C irradiation tests. For manufacturers and users who want to evaluate the durability of their products under real conditions, these specifications are not sufficient. The SKZ wants to close a gap here and set new standards. "UV-C sterilization is an important building block for hygiene and safety - but it must not be at the expense of material quality. With our project, we are creating the basis for reliable test methods that take into account the intended use and help companies to make their products future-proof," says Julian Hesselbach, Senior Scientist Bonding and Surface Technology at SKZ. The SKZ invites companies from the plastics, electronics, automotive and aviation industries to actively participate in the project free of charge. Together, practical solutions can be developed that meet the increasing requirements for hygiene and material resistance.