Eco-friendly chip emits UV light to keep food fresh

Credit: PureFize Technologies. 

Scientists from NTU Singapore and Swedish technology company PureFize Technologies have developed a compact chip that emits ultraviolet (UV) light for disinfection. Unlike conventional mercury lamps, the chip generates UV light without requiring mercury.

The innovation has been incorporated in a handheld product called EcoLoc that keeps food fresh. EcoLoc is used with a specially developed food container lid that fits the Ikea series of 365+ food storage containers.

Using the device, the shelf-life of various perishable foods was extended to almost a week.

The researchers are working on integrating the technology into other disinfection applications such as medical equipment sterilisation, home sanitation and packaging.

Read more at the NTU Research Hub.