Abstract: Broadband output high power pulsed flash lamps are useful in many applications, and when specifically optimized, can become an excellent source of ultraviolet (UV) light, which is particularly useful for photo-chemically-induced materials processing applications. Multiple factors involved with the production of high-energy light pulses can in certain cases adversely affect the ultraviolet lamp operation, thereby resulting in the development of micro cracks in lamp envelopes and subsequent limitation in lamp lifetime. Similar factors can be responsible for an increased absorption of UV radiation by lamp components and degradation of lamp efficiency. This invention describes new pulsed flash lamp designs that enable a new generation of high power and performance as required by, for example, many large-scale photo-processing applications.

Abstract: New and advantageous methods related to the design and manufacture of pulsed power systems for a new generation of higher performance flash lamps are disclosed. A reliable and cost-effective pulsed discharge lamp power supply system is provided that promotes PUV lamp efficiency beyond that which is achievable by means of prior art, thereby similarly decreasing the loss factor for both UV radiation and overall electrical energy. Also disclosed is a pulsed discharge lamp power supply system that serves to help prevent lamp envelope fracture and/or light output degradation resulting from the deleterious effects of intense radiation pulses. The pulsed discharge lamp power supply system produces an electrical output that is dynamically impedance-matched with the lamp throughout the entire time span of and the transition sequence between all three operating modes, thereby creating the necessary discharge conditions for optimal lamp operation.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for decontaminating a fluid, particularly water and wastewater, uses pulsed ultraviolet (UV) light in an automatic pump driven configuration that separately and in real time adjusts each UV reactor module for both water flow and UV power (average and peak intensity) to accommodate a wide range of influent conditions, thereby producing the quality of water discharge desired by the operator. Process control is configured on the basis of a UV transmission-based feedback control loop and on a truly active and independent adjustment of each reactor module, as opposed to the relatively passive and dependent adjustment techniques of the prior art.