What Is Ultraviolet Light?
Ultraviolet (UV) light – UVC in particular – provides powerful contamination control. UV light is part of the light spectrum. ‘Ultra’ is the Latin word for ‘beyond’, and ultraviolet means light that’s beyond violet in the electromagnetic spectrum.
Ultraviolet light is invisible to the human eye and falls between visible light and X-rays. It is classified into three wavelength ranges:
- UV-C, from 100 nanometers (nm) to 280 nm
- UV-B, from 280 nm to 315 nm
- UV-A, from 315 nm to 400 nm
As you move from longer to shorter wavelengths in the electromagnetic spectrum, the energy of the radiation increases.
The radiation of the different wavelengths of UV light disrupts the DNA or RNA of microorganisms, preventing them from reproducing and causing harm.
UV light is a powerful sanitization solution, with the shorter wavelength UV-C known for its germicidal properties, being 99.99% lethal to bacteria and viruses.
UVC Has The Ability To Sanitize And Disinfect
Properly designed and implemented UV-C sanitization systems can contribute to maintaining a clean and safe environment in various settings such as water treatment and healthcare facilities, laboratories, and public spaces.
UVC germicidal lamps success is dependent on the quality and type of UV equipment used. Different systems have varying levels of efficiency in delivering the necessary UV-C doses.
UV light dosage is measured in microwatt seconds per square centimeter – the dosage is the result of time and intensity. For disinfection to be successful, a sufficient delivery of UV light is required over a specified period to ensure microorganisms are adequately exposed.
Ultraviolet Contamination Technology Reduces Risk
Switzerland and Austria first used UV water treatment in the 1950s, followed later by the rest of Europe and the world. Municipalities are increasingly turning to UV-C technology for water treatment because of its effectiveness in disinfection. Contamination risks widespread outbreaks of nausea, cramps, diarrhea, and even fatal illnesses.
Infections caused by various pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, protozoa, or fungi, when provided with the right conditions—nutrients, moisture, and favorable temperatures—undergo exponential growth and potentially double in number in as little as twenty minutes.
Waterborne parasites like Cryptosporidium and Giardia are resistant to chemical disinfection methods such as chlorination, whereas UV-C water treatment kills 99.9% of them.
UVC Is Chemical Free
UVC sanitization systems eliminate the need for traditional disinfectant chemicals. This is particularly important in settings where chemical residues may be a concern, such as food processing, healthcare facilities, or water treatment.
UV systems are generally considered simple, cost-effective, and low-maintenance compared to chemical systems, as the absence of chemicals simplifies the process.
Using The Right UV Disinfection System Is Crucial For Success
Some microorganisms are more susceptible to UV light than others. Parasites like the above mentioned Cryptosporidium and Giardia can be more resistant as they have thicker cell walls and require higher-power UV doses to be inactivated from reproducing.
UV Sanitization Units Provide The Solution
UV light offers a clean sanitization solution that is free of chemicals, environmentally friendly and is capable of eradicating all microorganisms. Whether it’s for pest management, preventing food spoilage during processing and storage, treating water supplies, or sanitizing air and surfaces, UV technology provides a versatile and effective solution.
Ultraviolet Products Australia – Industry Leaders
Ultra Violet Products Australia is one of the leaders in the ultraviolet industry, specialising in disinfection and contamination control using germicidal UV lamps.
UVC sanitization units offer a chemical-free alternative to traditional methods of contamination control, providing a valuable option for those seeking efficient and eco-friendly sanitation solutions for home or business.
If you require assistance with implementing the right UV light technology in your home or workplace, please contact admin@uvproducts.com.au
References
The History of Ultraviolet Germicidal Irradiation for Air Disinfection
Pollution free UV-C radiation to mitigate COVID-19 transmission
Turning on the Zap: New York City Readies World’s Largest UV Drinking-Water Disinfection Plant