[nudephil (OP)]

Darren sent us this question:

Can UV light be used to backlight and sterilise keypads?

Could this system be used for keypads or touchscreens in places like McDonalds, or information boards in airports/shopping centres etc? This would mean the surfaces are sterilised, and might negate or supplement the use of hand sanitiser.

Any thoughts? 

[alancalverd]

Yes and no. You can indeed use UVC to sterilise surfaces but this is strictly for factory, laboratory or ward use under control with everyone wearing protective clothing and UV-blocking face masks - UVC fries pretty well any living matter!

[set fair]

You can attach a paper clip to a cigarette lighter to press buttons, using the flame to sterilise the paper clip each time you have used it.

[alancalverd]

Pretty neat way to destroy a touch screen!

[set fair]

Pretty neat way to destroy a touch screen!

: )