Natural pigment sensor for solar ultraviolet radiation measurement

The ultraviolet (UV) index is an international standard measure of the strength of solar ultraviolet radiation on the earth's surface at a specific place and time. Solar radiation with a high UV index can produce damage to the skin and eye (photoaging and photokeratitis). The levels of UV radiation are commonly detected using silicon-based optoelectronic sensors, which can be expensive. Here we propose a way to measure the UV index using natural organic pigments which fluoresce when exposed to UV radiation. In combination with an optical fiber, we have built a prototype sensor based on the pigment of turmeric or "Curcuma Longa". Curcuma longa fluoresces in the range of 500 to 680 nm when exposed to UV radiation. The system uses a filter to isolate the sunlight UV component. The sensor measures the variation in fluorescence intensity using a light dependent resistor to determine radiation levels and correlate it with the UV index. The sensor has been tested in Loja, Ecuador which is located at the equator (UV levels can reach up to 20.0 at the equator). When compared to a standard commercially available sensor (ML8511/LAPIS Semiconductor) this prototype has an error of ± 2.8%. We will describe the optical design and present measurements made with this novel inexpensive sensor.