RP-1724 -- Study the HVAC System Photodegradation Caused by the Low Level UVC Light Irradiance Used For Coil Maintenance and Air Stream Disinfection PDF

Recent research sponsored by ASHRAE (RP-1509 [1]) developed a UVC evaluation test employing photoreactors and investigated the effects of UVC photodegradation on typical HVAC materials, components and filters in the irradiance range of 1,000 to 14,000 microwatts per square centimeter. The research showed that the relationship between mass loss and UVC irradiance was linear for most materials in the studied range. However, the research also indicated that the mass loss versus irradiance relationship was nonlinear below 1,000 microwatts per square centimeter limiting the capabilities of HVAC designers and maintainers to predict component lifetimes.