Customizable ultraviolet radiation dosimeter: research and development

Abstract

Ozone in the stratosphere forms an atmospheric layer that protects life on Earth from ultraviolet rays (UVRs), which are made up of UVA, UVB and UVC rays. Beginning the 1980s, scientists realize of the deterioration of this layer due to chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). As the ozone layer deteriorates, the protective UVR filter is progressively reduced. Consequently, humans and the environment are exposed to higher levels of UV radiation. This problem leads us to the need to monitor the solar radiation to which we are exposed to ensure that we don't put our health at risk. Therefore, in this work is carried out a bibliographic and market study about the different existing UVR detection devices and selects the most effective and commercially viable. After analyzing the data, a customizable UVR dosimeter is chosen according to each user's skin type, irreversible and spectrally selective from the UVR based on a multi-redox polyoxometalate photoelectrochromic ink and an electronic donor. Subsequently, proposals are carried out to adapt the device to the activity of users, improving its adhesion and wettability to allow the application of sunscreen on its surface, reducing its size and modifying the format so that it doesn't interfere with the tanning. Additionally, the quality indexes are determined to be taken into account at the time of its manufacture in order to satisfy the customer's needs to the maximum, taking into account above all aspects such as resistance, wettability and precision of the device. Lastly, an initial manufacturing proposal is made and the type of reactor to be used for the synthesis of the indicator is determined: a tank reactor agitated with marine propeller blades. Synthesis results in a simple process, with laboratory scale equipment that works at ambient temperature and pressure and that requires a single daily load