Scientists have been able to generate this ultraviolet light for over 100 years but the technology has changed very little and still requires fragile glass bulbs filled with gases which are sometimes toxic. This is something which Smeeton aims to change by replacing the gas-based lamps with LEDs and lasers. There are numerous applications for this light: for example, it could be used as a simple and effective way of purifying drinking water. There are also plans to use the light in sensors to detect pollution in air and water as well as for medical diagnosis.