The PAULInE project expands the proven PAUL water backpack by integrating a solar-powered UV disinfection unit based on modern UVC LEDs. The goal is to significantly enhance the hygienic safety of water treatment in emergency situations while simultaneously demonstrating environmentally friendly, mercury-free technologies.
The PAUL ('Portable Aqua Unit for Lifesaving') water backpack has been successfully deployed worldwide for many years in disaster and crisis areas to provide people with decentralized access to clean drinking water. The mobile system operates without an external power source, relying solely on gravity, and has proven to be a valuable aid with over 4,500 units delivered.
With PAULInE, the system is now being enhanced by an innovative UV disinfection unit based on modern, mercury-free UVC LEDs and powered by solar energy. This allows for even more reliable elimination of bacteria and viruses in water, without the need for chemicals or mercury-based lamp technologies.
In addition to laboratory and simulation tests, the system is being evaluated in realistic long-term trials to demonstrate its effectiveness, robustness, and long-term stability. Despite the added technology, the cost for users is expected to increase only moderately, ensuring that widespread use in humanitarian aid remains feasible. The goal is to make PAULInE available both as a retrofit module for existing systems and as an integrated solution within the backpack.
PAULInE represents an energy-autonomous, chemical-free, and sustainable solution for drinking water treatment that protects health, simplifies logistics, and promotes the transition from mercury-based to modern LED technologies.
