Qhali: Conceptual Design, Simulation, and Modeling Using the Single-Diode Technique for a Solar Sterilization System for Rural Hospitals in Peru

Nacarino A. · Proceedings - International Conference on Smart-Green Technology in Electrical and Information Systems, ICSGTEIS (2025) · DOI: 10.1109/icsgteis68532.2025.11284324

Resumen

In the Peruvian context, rural hospitals still rely primarily on conventional energy sources, which limits the implementation of sustainable disinfection processes and hinders compliance with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) related to health and access to renewable energy. To address this issue, this paper presents the design, simulation, and modeling of Qhali, a solar sterilization system aimed at improving biosafety conditions in rural hospitals in Peru through the use of clean energy. The system is based on a singlediode photovoltaic model and utilizes a 12 -cell solar panel capable of generating 1 A of current and up to 18 V under optimal irradiation conditions. This energy powers ultravioletC LEDs that provide an irradiance of 2 mW/cm2 for the disinfection of medical surfaces. Simulations show that the system can achieve 99.9999% inactivation (6-log reduction) of Acinetobacter baumannii in 10.71 seconds and Aspergillus niger in 300 seconds, thereby surpassing the 4 -log reduction typically required for high-level disinfection in clinical settings. Additionally, the irradiance map over a 2cm × 10 cm scalpel demonstrated a homogeneous distribution, with minimum irradiance values of 1.8 mW/cm2. The system is designed to operate autonomously through battery storage, allowing it to function under low solar radiation conditions or at night. Nevertheless, practical challenges remain, such as performance under variable solar irradiance (e.g., cloudy days) and ensuring consistent maintenance of the 30 cm sterilization distance in hospital environments. Future work includes prototype manufacturing and experimental validation in rural hospitals, as well as the implementation of intelligent energy management systems to optimize its performance.

Instituciones: Universidad Ricardo Palma