Armed Forces News

Plasma physicists at the Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) are evaluating commercial ultraviolet (UV) light in hopes that it could serve as a disinfectant on ships and shore-based facilities. Should the testing prove useful, UV light could make it possible for thorough eradication of COVID-19 virus presence, as well as other harmful contaminants.

The NRL began testing in April, using 15 hand-held, 18-watt wands that are commercially available. The tests will continue, with evaluations being conducted every two weeks.