South Korean LED maker LG Innotek has said it developed an ultraviolet (UV) packaged LED capable of delivering 100 mW of radiometric power in the deep-UV or UV-C band. Such UV-C spectral energy can be used in a variety of purification and sterilization applications, and the higher energy levels coming to market will enable systems that can handle running water.

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LG Innotek said most industry roadmaps had pegged the 100-mW milestone as an obstacle that would be overcome in 2020. Realistically, it’s been apparent that the UV LED makers were moving faster than LG’s claim. For example, Nikkiso announced a 50-mW UV LED in early 2016 that emitted at 285 nm, and said at the time that the LED would operate for 10,000 hours. That company has two Nobel Laureates from blue-LED fame working on its UV program that’s targeted for use in the company’s industrial pumps and equipment.

What’s completely clear is that the rate of UV technology advancement is quickening. LG itself announced a 70-mW LED back in February. And in April, LG announced a UV LED module designed for integration in the aerator of a typical water faucet. Later, the company announced a UV system designed to sterilize escalator handrails.