Developed in 2019, the HERO21 is a scientifically based UV-C disinfection robot that has been developed, validated and tested together with the Ruhr University Bochum. With the HERO21, ICA presents a state-of-the-art
disinfection robot that enables users to easily master challenges in terms of responsibility, quality and reliability. Autonomous, documentable, reproducible and efficient, the HERO21 provides sustainable disinfection performance.

FROM THE LABORATORY TO THE FIELD

• Basic physical tests using spectroscopy in a certified genetic laboratory for the optimum development of the UV-C lamps used.
• The selected UV-C lamps were convincing in the efficiency test in the laboratory.
• Proof of efficacy with highly resistant end-spore-forming bacteria (B. subtilis). The autonomous movements of the robot make it possible to reduce contamination even in hard-to-reach areas.
• In four different certified S1 and S2 laboratories, the disinfection performance of the robot was convincing.
• 40% more germs than before are disinfected by using the HERO21 as a supporting disinfection measure, according to evaluations by the Ruhr University Bochum.

UV-C VS. CONTAMINATION RISKS

Cleanroom production requires a high level of responsibility in terms of quality and hygiene, as a lack of or inadequate disinfection leads to an interruption of production processes, which can result in considerable
costs.Reproducible high disinfection quality is therefore essential to protect employees and ensure consistently high production quality.

CONVENTIONAL METHODS DO NOT ADEQUATELY SOLVE THE PROBLEM

Manual disinfection sometimes only reaches half of the surfaces to be disinfected, which is why sufficient disinfection of room air or sealed surfaces cannot be guaranteed.

Disinfection using hydrogen peroxide in turn involves considerable preparation and follow-up work, which leads to longer downtimes in cleanroom production.

UV-C radiation has been used successfully for several decades in drinking water treatment and industrial food production.This method has decisive arguments in the fight against viruses and bacteria:

UV-C radiation penetrates to the genetic material of bacteria, fungi or viruses and prevents reproduction by damaging DNA or RNA. A large number of studies have proven the effectiveness and the radiation doses
required to inactivate viruses such as the SARS-CoV-2 pathogen.