The system, called PHS, combines the effect of ultraviolet radiation with that of the diffusion of ozone.
In the proposed system, low pressure UV devices, with a “germicidal” function, use UV-C light to obtain the rapid sterilization of bacteria, molds, fungi, viruses and microorganisms both in air and in water. In fact, in this type of device, about 40% of electricity is directly converted into UV-C radiation with monochromatic emission at 254 nm for the germicidal action and at 185 nm to favor oxidation processes on the surfaces. The system also includes ozone generators that use low pressure mercury vapor UV components. Ozone is a strong oxidizing agent which, reacting with a multitude of organic compounds, disinfects air and water; in addition, it is also a highly efficient deodorant capable of completely sterilizing environments and surfaces from mold and bacteria present in the air. The synthetic quartz glass allows to obtain a higher UV transmission efficiency at 185 nm. Downstream of the disinfection process, an additional system will remove the residual ozone present in the environment bringing it back to natural levels.
The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) recommends ultraviolet germicidal irradiation as a strategy for dealing with the transmission of COVID-19 disease (ASHRAE 2020).