Industry Story
The UV industry is a living system: companies get acquired, merge, reinvent themselves, close plants. Here we collect the lifecycle events from our manufacturer glossary — chronologically, with source links.
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2026
Asahi Kasei discontinues UVC-LED device production at Crystal IS
Asahi Kasei announces discontinuation of UVC-LED device production at its US subsidiary Crystal IS (portfolio optimization). Note: aluminum-nitride substrate development continues; only finished UVC LED devices are being phased out. Another consolidation signal in the UVC-LED segment.
SourceIndustrial & Entertainment Lamps Business sold to Ushio
ams-OSRAM sold its Industrial & Entertainment Lamps business (classic Hg lamps, Excimer, Halogen) to Ushio Inc. Acquisition announced 2025-07-29, closed 2026-03-03. ams-OSRAM keeps UV-C LED division and general LED business.
Source
2025
Epistar formally replaced as brand by Ennostar Corporation
On 1 October 2025 Epistar is formally replaced as a stand-alone brand by Ennostar Corporation — epistar.com 301-redirects to chip.ennostar.com. Chip production (UVA/UVC LED dies) continues as a subsidiary under Ennostar. Consolidation in the Taiwanese UV-LED market.
SourceVeralto acquisition for USD 20M (2025)
Veralto Corporation announced 2025-02-17 the acquisition of Aquafides for USD 20M. Closing expected Q2 2025. Strategic expansion of Veralto/Trojan UV division in Europe, complementing Trojan + Aquafine + VIQUA + Aria Filtra portfolio.
SourceWallenius Water Innovation re-integrated into Soya Group (2025)
Since 2025 Wallenius Water Innovation is once again part of the Soya Group — the Wallenius family holding (Stockholm, lineage back to 1934 Wallenius Lines shipping company). A prior separation preceded the reintegration; the move enables a growth phase with focus on sales/marketing.
SourceConsolidated as Heraeus Covantics (2025)
From January 1, 2025 Heraeus consolidated the high-performance materials expertise of Heraeus Conamic + Heraeus Comvance into a new operating brand: Heraeus Covantics.
SourceAquiSense becomes independent again (employee/investor buyback)
Employees and external investors buy AquiSense Technologies and all related assets back from the Nikkiso group (Nikkiso America). AquiSense continues as an employee/investor-owned private company, manufacturing UV-C LED disinfection systems (PearlAqua/PearlLab/ThinFilm product lines).
Source
2024
Acquired by U.S. Pharmacopeia
USP acquired Stratix Labs in October 2024 to enhance its microbiology portfolio.
Source99% usable area on 100mm AlN bulk substrate
Asahi Kasei / Crystal IS reach 99% usable area on a 100 mm aluminum-nitride bulk substrate — a precursor to industrializing high-power UVC-LED wafers.
SourceRenamed to BOE HC SemiTek (2024)
HC SemiTek was officially renamed to BOE HC SemiTek Corporation in May 2024 to reflect majority control by BOE Technology Group in the brand name.
SourceISO certification for UV fluorescent lamps (2024)
In April 2024 NARVA Lichtquellen received the ISO quality management certification for the scope "development, manufacturing and testing of UV fluorescent lamps". NARVA is thereby certified as a UV lamp manufacturer — important prerequisite for healthcare and regulated industry applications.
SourceRebranded to Hoenle AG
Dr. Hönle AG rebranded to Hoenle AG, consolidating subsidiary brands.
SourceConsumer UV-C exit — only professional market + OEM remain (2024)
In 2024 Signify discontinued sales of Philips-branded UV-C products to consumer markets. UV-C sales since then only in professional sector (healthcare, food/beverage, education etc.) and as non-Philips-branded OEM supply to third parties. Background: consolidation post-pandemic consumer boom.
SourcePhothera brand created
Phothera brand created in 2024 as consolidation of legacy companies Daavlin and National Biological. Brand birth via Madison Industries as parent.
SourceConsolidated under Phothera brand
Daavlin (Bryan Ohio) and National Biological (Beachwood Ohio) consolidated under the Phothera brand. Madison Industries as parent. 80+ years combined phototherapy experience.
SourceConsolidated under Phothera brand
Daavlin (Bryan Ohio) and National Biological (Beachwood Ohio) consolidated under the Phothera brand. Madison Industries as parent. 80+ years combined phototherapy experience.
Source
2023
With Trojan to Veralto subsidiary (2023)
VIQUA became part of Veralto Corporation together with Trojan Technologies in 2023-09 (spin-off from Danaher). Veralto Water Quality Segment.
SourceWith Trojan to Veralto subsidiary (2023)
Aquafine became part of Veralto Corporation together with Trojan Technologies in 2023-09 (spin-off from Danaher). Veralto positioned as Water Quality + Product Identification group.
SourceNukit founded
Far-UVC biosecurity hardware startup founded 2023 to bring affordable 222nm clean-air products to market.
SourceZhuhai MicroLED plant: USD 700M investment (2023)
In 2023 construction of the Zhuhai MicroLED production plant began with USD 700M total investment, fifth production site alongside Wuhan (HQ), Zhangjiagang, Yiwu and Yuxi. Full production targeted for end of 2025. Focus on Mini/Micro-LED chips for next-generation display and display backlight.
SourceCrystal IS demonstrates 160-mW single-chip UVC LED
Engineering samples reach 160 mW output from a single UVC-LED chip — new industry output record enabled by native AlN substrates.
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2022
IPO Euronext Milan at EUR 13.50/share (2022)
On 28 June 2022 De Nora went public on Euronext Milan at EUR 13.50/share. IPO valuation: EUR 2.723B. First major European IPO since the Ukraine war started.
SourceRussia business shut down (2022, Ukraine invasion)
In 2022 Flint Group shut down its Russia business in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Part of the broader Western industrial "Leave Russia" wave — chemical/printing-inks deliveries to Russian publishers and packaging industry ceased.
SourceBOE becomes largest shareholder (2022)
BOE Technology Group invested USD 289M (CNY 2.1B) in HC SemiTek in 2022 becoming largest shareholder with 23.08 percent voting stake. With voting agreement from New Sure, BOE voting rights rose to 26.66 percent. Acquired 272M new shares at CNY 5.60.
SourceConsolidated under Nuvonic brand
Consolidated with Hanovia, Aquionics, Berson, Orca under Nuvonic brand. Halma plc ownership ended with the brand change.
Consolidated under Nuvonic brand
Consolidated with Hanovia, Aquionics, Berson, Orca under Nuvonic brand. Halma plc ownership ended with the brand change.
Consolidated under Nuvonic brand
Hanovia (with Aquionics, Berson, Orca) was consolidated under the Nuvonic brand. Halma plc ownership presumably ended with the brand change.
2021
DSM divests Resins & Functional Materials to Covestro
DSM N.V. (Heerlen) divests its complete coating-resins business to Covestro AG for EUR 1.61 bn. DSM strategically refocuses on health/nutrition.
SourceCovestro closes DSM Resins acquisition (EUR 1.61 bn)
Covestro AG (Leverkusen) closes its acquisition of DSM Resins & Functional Materials for EUR 1.61 bn. The deal includes the complete radiation-curing resins portfolio (UV/EB-curable resins for coatings, inks, adhesives). Strategic expansion in the coating-resins market.
SourceEnnostar Holdings formed via share swap between Lextar and Epistar
Lextar Electronics (UV-LED lamps) and Epistar Corporation (UV-LED chips) form holding company Ennostar Corporation via share-swap transaction in Hsinchu, Taiwan. Both manufacturers continue to operate under their own brands; consolidation at the holding-company level.
DTF Station founded
Founded early 2021; makes Prestige-series DTF printers and supplies.
Source
2020
Merger with uv-technik meyer
uv-technik meyer gmbh merged into uv-technik Speziallampen on 24 November 2020.
SourceMerger with uv-technik meyer GmbH (2020)
On 2020-11-24 uv-technik Speziallampen GmbH and its sister company uv-technik meyer gmbh (component supplier) merged into a unified entity within the Hönle group.
SourceAcquired by Dr. Hönle AG
STERILSYSTEMS was acquired by Dr. Hönle AG in August 2020.
SourceFar-UVC engineering work began
Nukit (founder Naomi Wu) began publishing its 222nm far-UVC engineering work in March 2020.
SourceCompany established
Guangzhou Yingsheng Lighting established 2020 (LED and UV-LED light sources).
SourceEU ban of Hg high-pressure lamps for general lighting
Under the Minamata Convention on mercury reduction the EU bans Hg high-pressure lamps for general lighting. Specialized industrial uses (UV curing, spectroscopy, water disinfection) remain unaffected, but manufacturers publish phaseout schedules — Iwasaki releases its own phaseout note.
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2019
ALTANA AG acquires Schmid Rhyner (2019)
On 20 December 2019 ALTANA AG (Wesel, Germany) acquired Schmid Rhyner AG from Swiss conglomerate Conzzeta. Integration into ALTANA's ACTEGA division as "ACTEGA Schmid Rhyner AG". Schmid Rhyner becomes sister company of BYK-Chemie, ELANTAS and ECKART under ALTANA umbrella. Strategic rationale: ALTANA strengthens its print finishing portfolio.
SourceArkema acquires Lambson — integration into Sartomer (2019)
On 30 July 2019 Arkema S.A. (France) completed the acquisition of Lambson Ltd. Integration into Sartomer division as photoinitiator unit; Wetherby site became Photoinitiator Center of Excellence for entire Sartomer global operation. Lambson brand gradually consolidated into Sartomer (lambson.com 301-redirected to sartomer.arkema.com). Lambson Limited as entity remains UK-Companies-House-active but is operationally merged.
SourceRe-established as independent Röhm GmbH
The methacrylate business was re-established as independent Röhm GmbH in 2019.
Source
2018
RayVio Corporation rebrands to Bolb Inc.
US UVC-LED pioneer RayVio Corporation (founded 2010, Hayward CA) rebrands to Bolb Inc. circa 2018-2019 (HQ Livermore CA). Technology continuity, new brand identity.
Renamed from Philips Lighting to Signify (2018)
On 16 May 2018 "Philips Lighting N.V." was officially renamed to "Signify N.V." Legally no new entity — ticker LIGHT unchanged. Strategically: less dependence on the Philips brand, own corporate identity. Philips brand continues under license for lamp products.
SourceMLS Co. Ltd. becomes sole owner (2018)
In April 2018 MLS Co. Ltd. acquired the shares of co-investors IDG and Yiwu and became the sole owner of LEDVANCE. LEDVANCE is now a 100% Chinese subsidiary — a notable case in the Western lighting industry where a German classic lamp manufacturer is fully transferred to Chinese ownership.
SourceBaldwin Technology acquires AMS — rebrand to "AMS Spectral UV" (2018)
In January 2018 Air Motion Systems was acquired by Baldwin Technology Company Inc. (subsidiary of Barry-Wehmiller, USD 2+B US family conglomerate) and renamed to "AMS Spectral UV". Consolidation of US UV-curing equipment industry under one roof — Baldwin already had its own UV+IR divisions, integrated with AMS into the Curing business unit. Press release wording: "global UV curing powerhouse".
SourceWaveform Lighting founded
US specialty full-spectrum and UV lighting manufacturer, founded 2018, Vancouver WA.
Source
2017
Merger with Reichhold to form Polynt-Reichhold (2017)
Polynt merged on 2017-05-19 with Reichhold (US UPR market leader, founded 1927) to form Polynt-Reichhold, a global specialty chemicals group with over EUR 2bn revenue. Owners: Investindustrial + Black Diamond.
SourceAcquisition by Chinese consortium (IDG + MLS + Yiwu) for EUR 400M (2017)
On 3 March 2017 a Chinese consortium consisting of IDG Capital Partners (strategic investor), MLS Co. Ltd. (Chinese lighting holding) and Yiwu State-Owned Assets Operation Center (financial investor) closed the acquisition of LEDVANCE for EUR 400M. Economic effect 2017-03-01. Strategic rationale: MLS wanted European market access + the OSRAM classic lamps tradition.
Source
2016
Voltex-Bidvest subsidiary (August 2016)
In August 2016 Technilamp became a member of the Voltex Electrical Group, a wholly-owned subsidiary of JSE-listed Bidvest Limited. One of the largest South African conglomerates as ultimate parent.
SourceSpinoff from Osram Licht AG as LEDVANCE (2016)
In summer 2016 the classic lamps division (General Lighting Lamps) was spun off from Osram Licht AG and founded as the independent company "LEDVANCE GmbH". Strategic rationale at OSRAM: focus on LED + semiconductor business (today's ams-OSRAM AG); classic Mercury lamp business to continue independently.
SourceIPO Euronext Amsterdam (ticker LIGHT) — USD 3.4B (2016)
On 27 May 2016 Philips Lighting went public on Euronext Amsterdam under ticker "LIGHT". IPO price EUR 20.00 per share, initial valuation USD 3.4B, with 25% of shares initially offered. First IPO of a lighting-focused subsidiary of a global conglomerate.
SourceAcquired by MKS Instruments (2016)
Newport Corporation was wholly acquired by MKS Instruments, Inc. (MA, US) in April 2016. Operates since as wholly-owned subsidiary within the MKS group.
SourceSpinoff from Royal Philips as Philips Lighting N.V. (2016)
On 1 February 2016 the Lighting division of Royal Philips was formally spun off as a separate entity "Philips Lighting N.V." Heritage goes back to 1891, when Philips founded its incandescent lamp factory in Eindhoven — making the UV lamp line over 130 years old. Today's Signify is the direct heir of this lighting tradition.
SourceNational Technology Invention Award 1st Prize for GaN-on-Si (2016)
In January 2016 the GaN-on-Silicon LED technology — co-developed by LatticePower, Nanchang University and CECEP Lattice Lighting Co. Ltd — received the 1st Prize of China's National Technology Invention Award. China's highest state-level recognition for technical innovation.
SourceSpun off from OSRAM
Established 2016 as a spin-off of the OSRAM general-lighting lamp business.
SourceAcquired by Endress+Hauser
Acquired by the Endress+Hauser Group in 2016.
SourceCompany established
Anhui Chunnuanhuakai Environmental Technology established 2016 (air purification & disinfection).
SourcePhoton Wave founded (2016)
Photon Wave Co., Ltd. was founded in 2016 in Yongin-si (Gyeonggi-do, South Korea) as pure-play UV-LED manufacturer. Vertically integrated: epi wafer production + chip manufacturing (incl. flip chip) + SMD package assembly for UVB + UVC. Application focus: sterilization.
Source
2014
USD 80M Series-A funding (2014)
In July 2014 LatticePower closed a USD 80M Series-A funding round, led by GSR Ventures. Capital used for scaling GaN-on-Silicon production capacity.
SourceBolb Inc. founded
Founded 2014 in Livermore, California, by former Lumileds scientist Ling Zhou; deep-UV LEDs.
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2013
Company established
Shenzhen Taijin Precision Instrument established 5 September 2013 (NDT & lab testing).
SourceAcquired by Sanan Optoelectronics (2013)
Luminus Devices was acquired on 2013-06-12 by Lightera Corporation, US affiliate of Sanan Optoelectronics (China). Operates since as independent business unit within Sanan group. Since 2024 also distributes Sanan SiC + GaN power semiconductors in Americas.
SourceCymer acquired for EUR 1.95B (2013)
ASML completed the acquisition of Cymer (San Diego, USA) on 2013-05-30 for EUR 1.95B. Strategically critical for EUV market leadership — Cymer supplies the light source technology for ASML's EUV scanners.
SourceAcquired by ASML for EUR 1.95B (2013)
ASML completed acquisition of Cymer on May 30, 2013 for EUR 1.95B. Goal: acceleration of extreme UV lithography development. Operates since as independently-managed business unit within ASML. Strategically critical for ASML's EUV market leadership.
SourceMerger to Opsytec Dr. Gröbel
2013 merger with Dr. Gröbel UV-Elektronik (UV-measurement specialist since 1981).
SourceAcquired by Techcomp Ltd (2013)
Edinburgh Instruments was acquired by Techcomp Ltd (Hong Kong) in 2013. Operates since as subsidiary within the Techcomp group (scientific instruments group).
SourceKuryanovo WWTP — world's largest UV plant (2012/13)
In 2012/13 the world's largest UV wastewater disinfection plant at Kuryanovo Wastewater Treatment Plant in Moscow was commissioned with design capacity of 3.125M m³/day. Today 100% of Moscow's drinking water is UV-disinfected via LIT plants.
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2012
IPO Shenzhen ChiNext (300323.SZ) (2012)
In 2012 HC SemiTek went public on the Shenzhen Stock Exchange ChiNext (Growth Enterprise Board) under ticker 300323.SZ. One of the first Chinese LED-Chip-Manufacturers with ChiNext listing, raising capital for the Wuhan main production and later sites (Zhangjiagang, Yiwu, Yuxi).
SourceJW Sales GmbH founded (brand reorganization 2012)
In 2012 JW Holding GmbH founded JW Sales GmbH as dedicated sales arm for the Cosmedico brand. Simultaneously launched 10K100 premium range. Legally JW Sales GmbH is today's registrant of the Cosmedico brand, legal Cosmedico root entity as KOSMEDICO Sales GmbH was organizationally restructured.
Source
2011
Joined Hoenle Group
Owned by the Hoenle Group since January 2011.
SourceAcquired by Hönle Group (2011)
Hönle Group acquired 51% in 2011-01 with option for remaining 49%. Strategic expansion of Hönle group with UV lamp manufacturing for water sterilization, complementing Aladin (radiators) and Panacol (adhesives).
SourceCrystal IS acquired by Asahi Kasei
Japan-based Asahi Kasei Corporation acquires US AlN/UVC-LED pioneer Crystal IS (Green Island, NY). Strategic bet on native aluminum-nitride substrates as foundation for high-power UVC LEDs.
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2010
SuperLightingLED founded
Founded 2010 as an online retailer of LED lighting products.
SourceUVER Corporation founded (2010)
UVER Corporation was founded in 2010 in Ansan (Gyeonggi-do, Korea) as UV-LED system manufacturer. Specialization from start on full vertical integration from UV-LED chip through packaging and module to finished system. Complementary to Seoul Viosys (chip leader) and Photon Wave (pure-play chip) as system integrator layer.
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2009
Company established
Shenzhen Guangmai Electronics established 11 November 2009 (SMD/COB/UVC LEDs).
SourceSpin-off as Miwon Specialty Chemical (2009)
In 2009 the UV/EB division was spun off as independent company "Miwon Specialty Chemical Co., Ltd." from Miwon Commercial. Later listed on Korea Exchange (268280.KS).
Source
2008
Acquired by Trojan + brand consolidation (2008)
R-Can Environmental Inc. was acquired by Trojan Technologies in August 2008. All residential UV business segments (Sterilight, UV Max, R-Can brands) were consolidated under the new VIQUA brand. Position since: world's largest supplier of residential POE UV water disinfection.
SourceSilicon LED production plant online (2008)
In April 2008 LatticePower's first GaN-on-Silicon LED production plant in Nanchang went online — making LatticePower the first company worldwide with a commercial production line for Si-substrate LEDs.
SourceShenzhen Linshang Technology founded
Founded 2008; manufactures UV light meters and optical measuring instruments.
SourceOpsytec founded
Founded 2008 by Dr. Pieke and Dr. Paravia for UV engineering and contract measurement.
SourceJoined the Hönle Group
Part of the Hönle Group since January 2008, pairing adhesives with industrial UV curing.
SourceSaint-Gobain Quartz acquired (2008)
Heraeus acquired Saint-Gobain Quartz (HQ Wallsend UK, Spectrosil brand) in 2008 and integrated the activities into Heraeus Quarzglas. Strengthening position in semiconductor quartz glass and Asian market.
SourceUV Guard founded (2008)
UV-Guard Australia Pty Ltd was founded in 2008 in Sydney as 100% Australian-owned UV water specialist. HQ in Castle Hill (NSW, Sydney North-West). Focus: innovative UV purification technologies for water and liquids, commercial/industrial/residential solutions. NZ sub-brand uvguard.com/nz. Second Australian manufacturer in LUVEX glossary.
Source
2007
Acquired by FLIR Systems
FLIR Systems acquired Extech in 2007 (now part of Teledyne FLIR).
SourceTechnilamp founded (~2007)
Technilamp was founded around 2007 in Johannesburg (South Africa) as distributor and service provider for infrared and ultraviolet lamps. First ZA manufacturer in LUVEX glossary. Brand partnerships: Philips, Alpha-Cure, Toshiba, Isolde.
SourceLyubertsy WWTP UV commissioning (2007)
In 2007 the first UV station at Lyubertsy Wastewater Treatment Plant in Moscow was commissioned with a capacity of 1.35M m³/day. First major Mosvodokanal project after partnership start in 1997.
SourceAquafides founded (~2007)
AQUAFIDES GmbH was founded around 2007 in Schörfling am Attersee (Upper Austria) (commercial register FN 292228 y). Specialist for highly certified UV water treatment systems. Operations later expanded to Switzerland and Germany.
Source
2006
LatticePower founded as Nanchang University spinout (2006)
LatticePower (Jiangxi) Corporation was founded in February 2006 in Nanchang as spinout from Nanchang University, aiming to commercialize the universitys GaN-on-Silicon LED research. First company worldwide to industrialize this technology (instead of conventional sapphire substrates).
SourcePureBallast co-development with Alfa Laval (2006)
In 2006 Wallenius Water co-developed the PureBallast system with Alfa Laval — the first commercially available chemical-free UV ballast water treatment for ships. Wallenius-Water UV reactor technology is core of the solution; Alfa Laval sells and services PureBallast since then under their own brand. PureBallast was the first UV system to receive full approval from DNV and IMO.
Source
2005
UV Disinfection Group with Infilco Degremont (2005)
Ozonia and Infilco Degremont formed a joint UV Disinfection Group in North America in 2005. Complemented the existing ozone portfolio with UV products and enabled AOP combined solutions.
SourceHC SemiTek founded (2005)
HC SemiTek was founded in 2005 in Wuhan (Optics Valley, East Lake Hi-Tech Development Zone) as LED epitaxial wafer and chip manufacturer. Later listed on Shenzhen Stock Exchange (300323). MOCVD + chip production lines for UV/blue/green LEDs.
SourceJoined Trojan Technologies via Hach/Danaher (2005)
Aquafine was integrated 2005 as strategic business unit into Trojan Technologies. Prior, Hach Company (Danaher) had acquired Aquafine.
Source
2004
CVC Capital + ANI + BASF Printing Systems → XSYS Print Solutions (2004)
In 2004 CVC Capital Partners acquired ANI and BASF Printing Systems and combined both into XSYS Print Solutions — second predecessor of later Flint Group.
SourceHongli Zhihui Group founded (2004)
Hongli Zhihui Group Co., Ltd. (brand HONGLITRONIC) was founded in 2004 in Guangzhou (China) as LED packaging specialist. Today top-3 Chinese LED packager with 4 production sites (Guangzhou, Nanchang, Dongguan, Zhenjiang). UV activity: UVC + UVA + IR LEDs incl. CMH Deep-UV Package G6060. Listed on Shenzhen Stock Exchange (300219), Registered Capital 670M RMB.
SourceAlfaa UV founded (2004)
Alfaa UV (Ace Hygiene Products Pvt. Ltd.) was founded in 2004 in Mumbai by Rajul Parikh. ISO 9001 certified manufacturer of UV water purification and UV air disinfection. Manufacturing facility in Talegaon Maharashtra. Exports to 15+ countries. India's leading UV purification specialist.
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2003
Cosmedico acquires majority of NARVA (2003)
In 2003 Cosmedico (Stuttgart, see Iter 100) acquired the majority of NARVA Lichtquellen GmbH + Co. KG. Preceded by shareholding since 2000. Strategic rationale: vertical integration of Cosmedico tanning lamp manufacturing pipeline; NARVA became primary manufacturing platform for Cosmedico low-pressure tanning lamp range (COSMOLUX, COSMOFIT, RUBINO, 10K100, COLYOUR).
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2002
Luminus Devices founded (2002)
Luminus Devices was founded in 2002 in Massachusetts (later Sunnyvale CA) as high-power LED specialist. Later added UV-LED line (UVA + UVC).
Source
2001
Edison Opto founded (October 2001)
Edison Opto Corporation was established October 2001 in Taipei (Taiwan) as high-power LED manufacturer. Current HQ in New Taipei City (Zhonghe District). UV line: UVC LEDs for disinfection as part of portfolio.
Source
2000
Gigaphoton founded (2000)
Gigaphoton Inc. was founded on August 1, 2000 in Oyama (Tochigi) as a joint venture, later wholly-owned subsidiary of Komatsu Ltd. Specialized in excimer laser light sources for semiconductor lithography (KrF 248 nm + ArF 193 nm) and LPP-EUV sources.
SourceBIO-UV Group founded (May 2000)
BIO-UV Group was founded in May 2000 in Lunel (Hérault, France) as water treatment specialist. Multi-technology approach: UV-C + ozone + AOP + salt electrolysis. Production in Lunel, Muret and Glasgow. Later listed on Euronext Paris (ALTUV).
SourceRefond Optoelectronics founded (2000)
Shenzhen Refond Optoelectronics Co., Ltd. was founded in 2000 in Shenzhen as LED packaging specialist. Later listed on Shenzhen Stock Exchange (300241). Three manufacturing bases: Shenzhen, Zhejiang, Hubei. UV-LED modules + Mini/Micro-LED display as product focus. 2018: first Mini/Micro-LED mass production line in China.
Source
1999
Acquired Derungs Licht AG
In 1999 Waldmann acquired the Swiss medical-lighting specialist Derungs Licht AG of Gossau.
SourcePCE Deutschland GmbH founded
Founded 1999 in Meschede-Freienohl by three graduate engineers.
SourceMerger of Honeywell Inc. and AlliedSignal
The modern Honeywell International was formed by the 1999 merger of Honeywell Inc. and AlliedSignal.
SourceAlfred Keller IV takes over as 6th generation (1999)
In 1999 Alfred Keller IV took over as 6th owner generation the management of Siegwerk Druckfarben from his father Hans Alfred Keller. The company has been in Keller family hands for 6 generations since 1830 — one of Germany's oldest family-run industrial businesses.
Source
1997
Air Motion Systems Inc. founded (1997)
Air Motion Systems Inc. (AMS) was founded in 1997 in River Falls (Wisconsin, USA) by former executives of a leading European dryer systems manufacturer. Specialization from start on high-performance UV-LED + UV-ARC lamp systems for the commercial print market — especially sheet-fed offset printing. Became North America's leading UV-LED curing equipment manufacturer.
Sourceuv-technik Speziallampen founded (1997)
uv-technik Speziallampen GmbH was founded in 1997 in Ilmenau (Thuringia, Wümbach) as specialist for UV lamps. Low-pressure + medium-pressure + amalgam UV lamps primarily for water sterilization. HRB 304533 Jena.
Source
1996
Apogee Instruments founded (1996)
Dr. Bruce Bugbee founded Apogee Instruments in spring 1996 in his garage in Logan (Cache Valley, Utah). Specialized in environmental and radiation sensors (UV radiometers, Quantum-PAR, IR thermometers, pyranometers). UV line: SU-100, SU-200 + PS-300 spectroradiometer as transfer standard, calibrated under Logan sunlight.
SourceULTRAAQUA founded (1996)
Skjølstrup & Grønborg A/S (brand: ULTRAAQUA) was founded in 1996 in Aalborg (Denmark, Region Nordjylland) as UV+ozone water treatment specialist. Today ~10,000 installations worldwide via distributors in 120+ countries. First DK manufacturer in LUVEX glossary.
Source
1994
Bollé Safety division established
The Bollé Safety eyewear division was formally established in 1994.
Source
1993
First high-brightness blue LED
Shuji Nakamura developed the first high-brightness blue LED at Nichia, commercialized 1993.
SourceUvitron International founded
ISO-9001 US manufacturer of UV light curing systems, established 1993, West Springfield MA.
SourceTech Filter founded (1993)
Tech Filter Tratamento e Filtração LTDA was founded in 1993 in Indaiatuba (Sao Paulo State, Brazil) as water filtration and UV sterilization specialist. Market focus: Brazilian industry + Sao Paulo metropolitan area. UV sterilizer line includes standard industrial, pharma and sugar (sugar industry as Brazilian specialty). First BR manufacturer in LUVEX glossary.
Source
1991
Brand launch Ozonia (1991, IOA Monaco)
The Ozonia brand was officially launched at the International Ozone Association (IOA) Congress in Monaco in 1991, one year after the acquisition.
SourceSolarmeter UV-meter brand launched
The Solarmeter handheld UV meter brand launched in 1991.
SourcePyramex Safety Products founded
Family-owned PPE manufacturer founded 1991, Piperton, Tennessee.
Sourceuv-technik Speziallampen founded
Founded 1991, manufacturing UV-C low- and medium-pressure lamps.
SourceNPO LIT founded (1991)
NPO LIT (Light Innovation Technology) was founded in 1991 by a team of Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology (MIPT) graduates. Goal: development and manufacture of UV systems for water, air and surface disinfection. Today top-3 global UV manufacturer. Production centers in Dolgoprudny + Erfurt.
Source
1990
Ozonia founded as ABB spinoff (1990)
Ozonia was created on 1990-06-20 as acquisition of ABB's (formerly BBC's) ozone department by Degrémont and Air Liquide. Origin: BBC Brown-Boveri ozone heritage in Switzerland. Specialization: ozone generators for drinking water + wastewater disinfection.
SourceFounded in Jena after reunification
Founded May 1990, one of the first companies established in East Germany after the Berlin Wall fell.
Source
1989
Thorlabs founded (1989)
Alex Cable founded Thorlabs in November 1989 in Newton (Sussex County, NJ) after leaving his Bell Labs position. Original workshop with a purchased milling machine for optomechanical parts. Today ~1,500 employees, USD ~500M revenue (2018), ~20,000 photonics products, 90% in-house manufacturing.
Source
1988
IPO + Independence (1988)
In 1988 ASML became an independent, publicly traded company. In 1995 the company achieved full independence from founder corporations Philips and ASM International. Today dual-listing Euronext Amsterdam + NASDAQ (ASML).
Source
1987
Light Progress founded (1987)
Light Progress s.r.l. was founded in 1987 in Anghiari (Arezzo, Tuscany) as UV-C disinfection specialist. Over 35+ years developed from ~10 initial models to about 200 UV-C products for air/surface/water sterilization in healthcare, food industry and HVAC. Research collaboration with University of Siena for efficacy validation.
Source
1986
Cosmedico Inc. USA + VHO technology (1986)
In 1986 Cosmedico founded the US subsidiary Cosmedico Inc. in New Jersey and introduced VHO (Very High Output) technology for tanning lamps — important milestone in US solarium market entry after first market pilot 1979/80.
SourceCymer founded (1986)
Cymer was founded in 1986 by two college friends Robert Akins and Richard Sandstrom in San Diego (California) to develop laser and lithography light source technology for the semiconductor industry. Specialization: excimer lasers (ArF 193 nm + KrF 248 nm) for DUV lithography, later LPP-EUV light sources.
Source
1985
Predecessor R-Can Environmental founded (~1985)
The VIQUA predecessor R-Can Environmental Inc. was founded around 1985 in Guelph (Ontario, Canada) as leading manufacturer of UV equipment for residential water disinfection. Brands: Sterilight + UV Max. Exact founding should be verified — estimate based on "for over 30 years" marketing statements.
Source
1984
Edmund Industrial Optics established
An industrial optics arm spun off in 1984, today Edmund Optics.
SourceASML founded as Philips+ASM JV (1984)
ASML was founded in 1984 as joint venture between Philips and ASM International in Veldhoven (Netherlands). Original name: Advanced Semiconductor Materials Lithography. Specialization: semiconductor lithography machines.
Source
1983
UV/EB business unit launched (1983)
In 1983 Miwon launched a specialized UV/EB curing business unit within the parent Miwon Commercial. Started production of acrylate monomers/oligomers + photoinitiators for UV/EB market.
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1982
Sper Scientific founded
Has supplied environmental measurement instruments since 1982.
SourceRER / UVRER founded as French UV pioneer (1982)
RER (Realisation Energie Rationnelle) was founded in 1982 in Saint-Genis-Laval (Lyon Metropolitan area). Self-described as "the first company in its market to use Ultraviolet to treat water" — a historic French UV-water pioneer. Later brand expansion to ANEMO (air) and UVPUR (surfaces).
Source
1978
Panacol-Elosol founded
Founded 1978 as the German subsidiary of Panacol AG (Switzerland).
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1976
Dr. Hönle founded
Dr. Hönle AG founded 1976, focusing on UV irradiation devices.
SourceKOSMEDICO founded by Joerg Wolff (1976)
In 1976 Joerg Wolff founded "KOSMEDICO Sales of Cosmetic and Medical Lamps GmbH" in Stuttgart. Same year: brother Friedrich Wolff filed the patent for the "Sunbed for Tanning without Sunburn-Risk". Birth of the modern solarium/tanning industry. Later renamed Cosmedico, heritage as JW Holding GmbH.
SourceWedeco founded — pioneer of chemical-free UV water treatment
Founded in Herford (Germany). First-generation commercial low-pressure UV lamp systems for chlorine-free drinking water disinfection — foundational moment of the modern UV water industry.
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1973
Launched UV-curing optical adhesive line
In 1973 Norland developed UV-curing adhesives, originally to bond camera lenses (the NOA line).
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1971
Extech Instruments founded
Founded 1971; designs portable test and measurement instruments incl. UV/light meters.
SourceEdinburgh Instruments founded (1971)
Edinburgh Instruments Limited was founded in 1971 in Scotland as scientific spectrometer manufacturer. HQ in Livingston (West Lothian, Kirkton Campus). UV line: DS5 Dual-Beam UV-Vis spectrophotometer (2019), photoluminescence spectrometer with UV excitation, Raman + FTIR + transient absorption.
Source
1969
NARVA Kombinat merger (1969)
In 1969 the light bulb plants Plauen, Oberweißbach and Brand-Erbisdorf merged into the GDR state-owned Kombinat NARVA. NARVA brand became unified brand for all GDR lighting products (especially low-pressure fluorescent lamps). In 1971 own glass works went into operation — vertical integration. Until 1990 state lamp supplier for GDR + COMECON market.
SourceNewport founded (1969)
Newport Corporation was founded in 1969 as Newport Research Corporation in California. UV-relevant: UV optics (193-400 nm), UV powermeter, DUV lithography optics. HQ in Irvine (Orange County).
Source
1967
Solar Light Company founded
Founded 1967; built the world first solar simulator.
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1965
SEN LIGHTS Corporation founded (1965)
In 1965 SEN LIGHTS Corporation (セン特殊光源株式会社) was founded in Osaka as specialist manufacturer for special UV light sources. 60+ years of heritage in surface processing, reformulation, curing, sterilization and deodorization. Niche position between large Japanese light source corporations Ushio/Iwasaki/Stanley and small custom shops.
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1963
Atlantic Ultraviolet founded (1963)
Atlantic Ultraviolet Corporation was founded in 1963. 1994 moved to current HQ in Hauppauge (Long Island, NY) with 25,000 sqft custom-built facility, 1997 expanded to 37,500 sqft. Germicidal UV equipment specialist for water/air/surface disinfection.
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1962
Wesel site established (1962)
BYK established the Wesel site (NRW) in 1962 and began production of paint and plastics additives there. Wesel later became the headquarters and is today the central R&D + production hub.
Source
1960
Norland Products founded
Founded 1960 in New Jersey.
SourceAmerican Ultraviolet founded
Founded 1960; has manufactured UV-C germicidal fixtures since inception.
SourceLambson founded by Hall family (1960)
In 1960 Lambson Ltd was founded by the Hall family in Wetherby (West Yorkshire, UK) as specialty chemicals manufacturer. UK Companies House Co.No. 02838052. Entry into UV photoinitiator market only in the 1980s — 20+ years independent before UV specialization.
Source
1959
Miwon foundation (1959)
Miwon Commercial Co., Ltd. was founded in 1959 in South Korea as specialty chemicals manufacturer. The UV/EB curing division (today Miwon Specialty Chemical) started later as internal business unit.
Source
1958
Recommended by Japan Food Hygiene Assoc.
The UV-C lamp became a recommended product of the Japan Food Hygiene Association, September 1958.
Source
1956
1955
Invented fluorescent leak detection
Spectronics Corporation invented fluorescent leak detection in 1955.
SourcePolynt founded (1955)
Polynt was founded in 1955 in Scanzorosciate (Bergamo, Italy) as the FTALITAL complex for phthalic anhydride production. Later expanded into a global specialty chemicals company with UV curables, coating resins, UPR, gel coats and anhydride derivatives.
Source
1953
Hamamatsu TV Co., Ltd. founded
Founded September 29th, 1953 in Hamamatsu, Shizuoka. Photonics-technology focus (photomultiplier tubes, light sources, imaging devices). Current name Hamamatsu Photonics K.K. after later rebrand.
SourceNikkiso Co., Ltd. established
Established 1953; industrial pumps, precision/aerospace and medical devices, incl. UV systems.
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1949
Started UV-C lamp production
Production of UV-C germicidal lamps began December 1949.
SourceAquafine founded (1949)
Aquafine Corporation was founded in 1949 in Southern California as UV water treatment specialist. Specialization: Industrial UV systems for pharma, semiconductor, F&B, power generation. HQ in Valencia (Santa Clarita).
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1948
Renamed Sankyo Denki Co., Ltd.
Renamed to Sankyo Denki Co., Ltd. in June 1948.
SourceLight bulb factory Plauen founded (NARVA root 1948)
In 1948 a light bulb factory for general lighting was founded in Plauen (Saxony, then East Germany / GDR) — historical root of today's NARVA Lichtquellen GmbH + Co. KG. In 1966 fluorescent lamp production started in Brand-Erbisdorf as branch of the Berlin light bulb factory. In 1969 the plants Plauen, Oberweißbach and Brand-Erbisdorf merged into the NARVA Kombinat — GDR state lamp sector.
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1947
Established in Tokyo
Established October 1947 in Shinagawa, Tokyo (as Nihon Iryo Shinku Kogyosho).
Source
1944
Gateway Safety founded
Founded 1944 as a welding eye-protection maker; among the oldest U.S. safety manufacturers.
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1942
Toagosei founded (1942)
Toagosei Co., Ltd. was founded on 1942-03-31 in Tokyo as specialty chemicals corporation. Today listed on Tokyo Stock Exchange. UV activity: Aronix acrylates (UV-curable) and Aron Oxetane (cationic). Plus since 1963 the world-known Aron Alpha cyanoacrylate adhesives.
SourceFounded as Edmund Salvage Corporation
Norman W. Edmund founded the Edmund Salvage Corporation in 1942, selling surplus optics.
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1940
Helios Italquartz founded (1940)
Helios Italquartz S.r.l. was founded in 1940 in Cambiago (Milano) as quartz glass processing and UV+IR lamp manufacturer. 80+ years of experience in quartz glass + UV/IR lamps. Italian production + R&D center of Helios Quartz Group SA (Swiss holding). Vertically integrated: quartz glass + lamps + equipment.
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1939
sterilAir founded (1939)
sterilAir AG was founded in 1939 in Weinfelden (Canton Thurgau, Switzerland) as UV-C disinfection specialist. One of the world's oldest and most experienced sterilization companies. 80+ years of practical UV-C experience. First Swiss UV manufacturer in LUVEX glossary.
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1934
Davey Water Products founded (1934)
Davey Water Products Pty Ltd was founded in 1934 in Melbourne (Victoria, Australia) as pump and water specialist. Today market leader in Australia + New Zealand for water pumps, filtration and UV disinfection (Microlene brand). Exports to 50+ countries. HQ in Scoresby (Melbourne).
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1928
Founded by Emil Waldmann
Founded 1928 in Villingen-Schwenningen as an electrical installation business.
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1926
Founded by Philipp M. Winter
Founded 1926 in Poppenreuth near Fürth, where Philipp M. Winter handcrafted his first safety goggles.
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1924
Hanovia founded (UK)
UK UV disinfection pioneer founded (industry standard estimate). Detailed research on founder and exact address pending.
1923
Industrie De Nora founded by Oronzio De Nora (1923)
Industrie De Nora was founded in 1923 in Milan by Italian engineer Oronzio De Nora. Specialization from start on electrochemical processes and industrial electrodes. Oronzio De Nora also invented Amuchina (disinfection solution). Today world-leading supplier of electrodes for chlor-alkali, hydrogen electrolysis and galvanic processes.
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1922
Nazdar founded
Founded 1922; international manufacturer of screen, digital and narrow-web printing inks.
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1920
Flint Ink Corporation founded (1920, Detroit)
The legal root of today's Flint Group goes back to 1920 — Flint Ink Corporation was founded in Detroit (Michigan, USA) as printing inks manufacturer. 85 years independent until the 2005 merger with XSYS Print Solutions forming Flint Group.
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1915
Atlas Material Testing founded (1915)
Atlas Material Testing Technology was founded in 1915 in Chicago (Illinois, USA) as specialist for accelerated material aging and weathering tests. HQ today in Mount Prospect (suburb of Chicago). Today business unit within AMETEK Inc. (Electronic Instruments Group). UV line: Xenon-arc + UV-fluorescent + metal-halide weathering chambers, plus outdoor exposure sites in desert and tropical climates.
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1911
"Siegwerk Chemisches Laboratorium" brand established (1911)
In 1911 Alfred Keller (father) + son together with Fritz Rung founded "Siegwerk Chemisches Laboratorium" for copper rotogravure printing inks — birth of today's Siegwerk brand. Conscious decision to specialize in printing inks (rather than general manufactured goods trading).
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1907
Röhm & Haas founded
Lineage starts with Röhm & Haas, founded by Dr. Otto Röhm and Otto Haas in 1907.
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1906
Honeywell Heating Specialty Co. founded
Mark Honeywell founded the Honeywell Heating Specialty Co. in Wabash, Indiana, 1906.
SourceOSRAM brand founded (1906)
OSRAM brand founded in 1906. Later merger with ams (Austrian sensor company) created today's ams-OSRAM AG.
1904
Radium founded (1904)
Radium Lampenwerk GmbH was founded in 1904 and is Germany's oldest active lamp manufacturer. HQ + production in Wipperfuerth (Oberbergischer Kreis, NRW). 120+ years of experience in lighting technology. UV line: specialized UV emitters in small-batch production for mechanical engineering customers.
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1902
Founded as Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Co.
Founded 1902 by five businessmen in Two Harbors, Minnesota.
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1888
Bollé heritage begins in Oyonnax
Louis Séraphin Bollé founded a comb and accessory workshop in Oyonnax, France, 1888.
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1880
Schmid Rhyner founded as varnish factory in Zurich-Wiedikon (1880)
Heinrich Boli-Salzmann, chemist, founded the Schmid Rhyner varnish factory in Zurich-Wiedikon in 1880. Specialization from start on print finishing varnishes. In 1953 production was relocated to Adliswil (Soodring 29) — today's HQ location.
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1873
BYK-Chemie founded (1873)
Heinrich Byk founded a chemicals factory in Berlin under his name in 1873. Today's headquarters in Wesel (NRW) since 1962. UV activity: additives for UV stability + wetting + slip + rheology in UV-curable coatings + inks. One of four divisions of ALTANA AG.
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1859
Marabu founded
Family-owned printing-ink and coatings specialist founded 1859, Tamm, Germany.
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1851
Heraeus Holding founded (1851)
Wilhelm Carl Heraeus founded an apothecary lab in Hanau (Hesse) in 1851 — origin of today's Heraeus Holding. The quartz glass division was built up over the decades and is today part of Heraeus Covantics.
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1830
"Rolffs & Poensgen" manufactured goods in Cologne founded (1830)
In 1830 Christian Gottlieb Rolffs together with his brother-in-law founded the manufactured goods trade "Rolffs & Poensgen" in Cologne. Out of the company's calico print shop later emerged today's Siegwerk Druckfarben AG & Co. KGaA. In 1851 the printing inks business was relocated to Siegburg — today's HQ location.
Source
Date unknown
Acquired by American Ultraviolet
AETEK International was acquired by American Ultraviolet and continued as AETEK UV Systems Division. Original aetekuv.com domain 301-redirected to parent.