UV-C light emitting surface solution

Green alternative for the prevention of biofouling, a proven & patented technology

Sustainable biofouling protection

Galuxea develops an ultra-thin UV-C emitting surface, powered by integrated UV-C LEDs. Patented technology, licensed exclusively to Galuxea by Philips, ensures a unique and reliable foundation. With over 10 years of successful marine testing, our non-toxic and low-energy solution prevents biofouling at its earliest stage. Designed for long-lasting performance, it can be customized for a wide range of water infrastructure assets (with the exception for vessels)

Non-toxic

Integrated UV-C LEDs disrupt microbial DNA at the earliest stage of growth, providing a chemical-free solution to biofilm formation

Long-lasting

Ultra-thin surfaces with optimized UV-C output ensure durable operation with minimal power consumption, reducing OPEX and maintenance needs.

Proven

Developed and tested up to proof-of-principle, the system demonstrates robust performance and readiness for large-scale integration.

Proof of principle

In summer 2024, our UV-C emitting surface was tested for three months at Maasvlakte, Rotterdam harbor – one of Europe’s most challenging biofouling environments. Compared against a control and chlorination, the results clearly demonstrated the effectiveness of our non-toxic, low-energy solution in preventing biofouling under real industrial conditions.

Control (no measures)

Significant soft and hard fouling observed.

The control box shows the impact of untreated biofouling, with layers up to 2 cm thick consisting of mussels, tubeworms, and other marine organisms.

Chlorination (biocide)

The traditional and toxic way to prevent fouling

Chlorination keeps the surface cleaner, but relies on a continuous (daily) use of chemicals. Residual fouling remains, and environmental impact is significant.

UV-C emitting surface

No visible fouling – surface remains clean.

The UV-C surface prevented both soft and hard fouling entirely, with no accumulation detected after three months, proving its effectiveness as a non-toxic, low-energy solution.

Menko Remmelts CEO and co-founder

"Our solution in harmony with nature replaces current toxic, energy and labour-intensive solutions to safeguard our oceans and biodiversity."

About

Galuxea develops an innovative UV-C surface technology to protect critical water infrastructures against biofouling. Our ultra-thin surfaces integrate UV-C LEDs that disrupt microbial growth at its earliest stage, preventing biofilm formation and extending asset lifetime. By combining proven science with smart engineering, we help industries secure clean water flows, reduce operational costs, and lower environmental impact.

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