Opinion Column by Thomas Neicke, Managing Director, Advanced UV for Life – Association
Originally published April 13, 2025
Imagine you’re a company in the UV disinfection or curing space. While others are already testing sleek, efficient UV-LED systems, you’re still operating in a comfort zone. Pressure lamps: Reliable – yes. Workhorse – sure. Future-proof – ?
Feels a bit like Kodak, doesn’t it? Still betting on analog film while the digital camera revolution was already knocking at the door. The UV industry today may stand at a similar tipping point.
For decades, pressure lamps have been the gold standard in UV disinfection, curing, and med-tech. But now, regulatory pressure such as the RoHS directive, and increasing customer demand make it clear: the age of traditional UV lamps is under pressure.
And unlike in the past, the alternative isn’t a theoretical promise, it’s already materializing.
UVC-LEDs have made impressive progress. In less than five years, their wall-plug efficiency could already match that of low- and even medium-pressure mercury lamps.
Support comes from the semiconductor industry, with companies like AIXTRON SE, LayTec, SENTECH Instruments GmbH, ams OSRAM, Infineon, or even Google racing ahead in R&D for ultra-wide bandgap power semiconductors.
It turns out that many of the materials (III-nitrides), physical properties, and epitaxial processes used for next-gen high-power transistors align remarkably well with those used in UV-emitting LEDs. Lifetime challenges, high current handling – shared questions, shared progress.
Yes, this transition will take work for both manufacturers and users. But it doesn’t need to be a drama. We don’t need industry-wide panic. Just like with digitalization, it’s about smart, step-by-step modernization.
Here’s what companies can do to start transitioning toward the UV-LED future, without losing their nerves or market share:
1. Build a Future-Proof Technical Foundation
Still clinging to mercury lamps simply because they have “always worked”? That mindset may still carry you a while but how long?
Begin laying the groundwork. Start with pilot projects using UV-LEDs, especially in applications where size, instant on/off capabilities, and environmental impact matter.
2. Learn from the LED Trailblazers
Companies like Nichia Corporation, ams OSRAM, Crystal IS, AquiSense Inc., Excelitas Noblelight, eta plus electronic GmbH, MSG Lithoglas GmbH, EPIGAP OSA Photonics GmbH, Lit Thinking, or LUMITECH Lighting Solution GmbH are not just early adopters, they’re paving the way.
They have technical expertise, data, and product maturity. Don’t just observe from a distance, start a conversation.
Joint development projects, shared application testing, or even informal knowledge exchange can be valuable first steps.
3. Tap into Applied Research
Europe boasts a strong backbone of applied science institutions.
Ferdinand-Braun-Institut, Leibniz-Institut für Höchstfrequenztechnik, Leibniz-Institut für Kristallzüchtung (IKZ), and Fraunhofer IOSB-AST have years of experience not only in LED technology but also in optimizing systems for real-world use.
Their knowledge spans far beyond the lab bench, they know how to bring new technology into industrial settings.
4. Avoid the Kodak Moment
Digital photography didn’t kill Kodak overnight. But ignoring the trend did.
The transition won’t be immediate, and UV-LEDs won’t replace mercury lamps in every application tomorrow, but waiting too long means losing the chance to shape the new standard.
Don’t be the brand everyone talks about in future business textbooks.
5. Rethink Your Business Model
As with any major technology shift, it’s not just the tools that change, it’s the way value is created.
Many traditional UV companies today manage the entire value chain in-house, from lamp production to integration into end-use systems.
In the future, we’ll see dedicated UV-LED chip manufacturers, specialized module producers, and systems integrators playing distinct roles.
Some companies will focus on high-value applications, sourcing their modules from external suppliers. Others may move vertically through partnerships to secure access to UV-LED technology.
M&A activity is likely to grow as businesses reposition themselves within the evolving value chain.
Now is the time to start working on your own future business model.
Where can you add the most value in a post-mercury, UV-LED-driven world? What parts of the chain can you let go, and where should you double your efforts?
The companies that ask themselves these questions early won’t just adapt to the change, they’ll be the ones shaping it.
6. Use Your Networks
You’re not alone in this. The Advanced UV for Life – Association network brings together players from science, industry, and technology. It’s a platform where UV-LED and traditional lamp companies meet, collaborate, and co-create the future of UV technology.
Everyone has something to gain: UV-LED innovators benefit from the market knowledge and customer relationships of traditional players, and traditional companies can ride the innovation wave instead of being swept away by it.
Yes, transitioning to UV-LEDs involves change. But it’s not about scrapping everything. It’s about evolving with the technology, step by step. This is a marathon, not a sprint. Companies that start moving today will not only keep up, they’ll help lead the way.
So, no fear. Just give it a try.
***
Disclaimer: This column reflects the personal opinion of the author and does not necessarily represent an official position of the Association or its members. Would you like to share your own opinion? Send us an email.
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