Nanowire-based UV-LEDs for water purification

Purpose and goal

QuNano and researchers at nmC @ LU, Lund University have established the first steps of a new technique to produce highly crystalline aluminiumgalliumnitride (AlGaN), one of the few materials that can be used in ultra-violet light emitting diodes (UV-LEDs), outside the visible range, for water disinfection. Optical nanostructures with aluminum content of 50% have been realized, sufficient to produce short-wavelength LEDs down to 260nm. The technique is based on QuNanos and LUs unique nitride nanowire growth, previously used to create the technology behind Glo AB visible LEDs.

Results and expected effects

Drinking water is today in accelerating shortage globally. UV LEDs offer a more mobile and more environmentally friendly option for water than mercury lamps used today. They, however, must become significantly more energy efficient in order to function as a possible replacement. The nanowire-based manufacturing method, used in this research, has been shown to reduce the crystal defects in AlGaN causes low efficiency of traditional UV LEDs. The result means that the next step, to develop a high-crystalline, effective, nanowire-based UV LED can begin.

Approach and implementation

An epitaxial method of fabricating nanowire-based aluminiumgalliumnitride (AlGaN) has been established by QuNano AB. Composition analysis and optical analysis of the material was carried out by researchers at Lund University. Furthermore, processes have been established in order to optimize materials development and the further development of UV-LEDs.