Abstract: Methods and systems for preventing biofouling of membranes utilized in water treatment processes (i.e., water treatment membranes) are described. Methods include X-ray excitation of luminescent materials capable of emitting in the violet to UV range (e.g., from about 180 nm to about 440 nm). X-rays are directed at water treatment modules to contact the luminescent materials within the modules and excite internal violet/UV to prevent biofouling of membranes. The methods can be utilized in conjunction with existing processing equipment and can prevent biofouling of water treatment membranes in high volume treatment processes in an environmentally friendly fashion.

Abstract: Methods and systems for preventing biofouling of membranes utilized in water treatment processes (i.e., water treatment membranes) are described. Methods include X-ray excitation of luminescent materials capable of emitting in the violet to UV range (e.g., from about 180 nm to about 440 nm). X-rays are directed at water treatment modules to contact the luminescent materials within the modules and excite internal violet/UV to prevent biofouling of membranes. The methods can be utilized in conjunction with existing processing equipment and can prevent biofouling of water treatment membranes in high volume treatment processes in an environmentally friendly fashion.

Abstract: Antimicrobial articles, systems, and methods may be used for killing, inactivating, and/or inhibiting microorganisms. The antimicrobial articles and systems utilize up-conversion luminescence wherein a phosphor or luminescent material is capable of absorbing visible, infrared light, or longer wavelength radiation and emitting antimicrobial ultraviolet radiation via upconversion thus inhibiting the growth of, inhibiting the reproduction of or killing or otherwise inactivating microorganisms such as, but not limited to, spores, bacteria, fungi, mildew, mold, and algae. Embodiments of the antimicrobial article or system may comprise such a luminescent material and thus will have antimicrobial activity when exposed to natural or artificial light.