![]() ![]() white goods, beverage, microelectronics, life sciences) may implement best practices by selecting an LED option by the influence of the Minamata Convention, not by enforcement. Corporations that use UV systems in products or manufacturing processes (e.g.Potential responses may include the following actions: The UNEP has set the goal for mercury to be phased out of production by the year 2020.Īlthough the Minamata Convention does not specifically prohibit the manufacture and sale of UV mercury-vapor lamps, it will provide a generally positive influence for the more widespread adoption of alternative technologies. The Minamata Convention on Mercury was initiated by the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP) to protect human health and the environment from anthropogenic emissions and releases of mercury. The inherent stable crystal structure of an LED ensures that UV-C LEDs are very robust to mechanical or environmental shock. These metals and or metalloids are bound within a stable crystal structure and cannot leach into the environment. UV-C LEDs do contain small amounts of elements such as the metals gallium and magnesium and the metalloids silicon and boron (although boron is not predominantly used). While the lamp is operating the mercury vaporizes if the lamp is broken, mercury vapor is easily dissolved into the treated product. Accidents and improper procedures increase the risk of exposure to people and the local environment. ![]() Liquid mercury lamps have the potential to be hazardous both during operation and when the lamp is off. Amalgam UV lamps contain solid “spots” which consist of an alloy of mercury and another element, such as indium or gallium. ![]() ![]() medical devices, space).Ĭonventional UV lamps hold their mercury either in a liquid form (more common in medium pressure lamps) or an amalgam (more common in low pressure, high output lamps). These UV lamps require routine replacement and are susceptible to breakage during transportation, handling, and operation. UV LEDs are mercury-free and provide a safer alternative. This has created new markets for UV disinfection where traditional UV lamps containing mercury were banned for safety reasons (e.g.
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