# Fluence and Dose Distribution Modeling of an Ultraviolet Light Disinfection Process for Pathogen Inactivation Efficiency Evaluation

## TL;DR

This paper introduces a new method to model UV light distribution for disinfecting solid food surfaces, aiming to improve industrial food processing efficiency and safety.

## Contribution

A novel framework for evaluating UV fluence rate fields in both static and moving environments for industrial food disinfection.

## Key findings

- The method determines UV fluence distribution on convex objects in food processing.
- It helps select appropriate light sources and irradiation times for effective disinfection.
- The model supports optimization of decontamination processes for better food quality and shelf life.

## Abstract

This study addresses the need to utilize bench-scale
experimental
results for ultraviolet (UV) light disinfection on solid food surfaces
by proposing a novel framework to evaluate the fluence rate field
of arbitrarily placed UV sources to ensure proper disinfection in
industrial-scale food processing. Despite extensive research establishing
UV fluence values for disinfection of various food types, industrial
applications often face challenges due to nonhomogeneous UV distribution.
This study introduces a method capable of determining the fluence
distribution on solid food and food contact surfaces in both static
and moving environments. Additionally, it aids in selecting the appropriate
light sources and irradiation times. Our model leverages UV radiation
models from different engineering disciplines to determine the UV
fluence and dose distribution on the surface of convex objects. This
helps to understand and optimize processes for proper decontamination,
improved food quality, and a longer shelf life for processed products.