For developing good portable sterilizer for field use (maybe for forest, desert) which source can work with smaller battery source, with less energy, in a smaller box without producing hazards to the personnel?
Try NO. I know there is a company in Baltimore that is developing exactly what you are looking for. (www.noxilizer.com). I have done some antimicrobial testing for them and NO is really effective. Does not need any every and the device can be as small as a suitcase...
I know this reply is really belated but I was wondering if portable UV-C devices abundantly available on line will do the job. Here is an example of what can be found on ebay: https://www.ebay.com/itm/Nail-Sterilizer-Box-Disinfection-UV-LED-Pedicure-Brush-Cleaner-Tool-HL/123814321847?hash=item1cd3e89eb7:g:2t0AAOSw4Vpb0ofU
I am really curious if anybody used them in research. So far could not find any reviews of such products by scientists at Amazon :)