Questions & Answers

UVC rays and their disinfecting effect

Disinfection with the help of UVC technology is carried out without the use of chemicals and without residues. It is effective against all types of microorganisms. UV radiation has shorter waves and is more energetic than visible light. It is divided into UVA, UVB and UVC rays.

The term UVC disinfection does not refer to the entire UVC spectrum of 100-300 nm, but specifically to the range of 250-280 nm, where the genetic information of all living organisms is most sensitive. In this spectral region, the energy of photons interacts with DNA and destroy it. The higher the UVC intensity [mW / cm²] and the longer the irradiation time, the higher the UVC dose [mJ / cm²] and therefore the higher the number of lethal DNA damage for microorganisms. In other words, the more damage done to DNA or RNA, the more effective the disinfection.

The dose at which 90% of the microorganism population is killed is referred to as the Lethal Dose (LD90).

Which microorganisms can UVC light harm?

In UVC disinfection there is a specific lethal dose (LD) for each type of microorganism (bacteria, yeast, viruses, mold spores). The LD90 dose, which kills 90% of the microorganism population, is used as a standard.

In general, all life forms are structured on the basis of hereditary information of the DNA or RNA type. This means that UVC radiation can have a detrimental effect on all organisms on earth due to its destructive properties against the hereditary material of the cells.

The simpler it is organized and the smaller the cell volume of a particular organism, the lower the value of its lethal dose (LD). Thus, it is smallest in prokaryotic cells, in eukaryotic cells and spores its range of values ​​increases. Detailed tables of LD90 dose values ​​from different organisms are available to calculate disinfection doses.

When designing disinfection systems, it is important to know how tightly the microorganisms are arranged, as shading, reflection and scattering affect the dose at which UVC radiation can reach DNA.

Is UVC light harmful to humans?

Ultraviolet radiation from the sun penetrates the Earth's atmosphere depending on its wavelength. The longest UVA rays reach us in large quantities. They cause darkening of the skin. UVB rays partially reach the ground and penetrate relatively deep into our skin and eyes. UVC rays have the shortest wavelength and the highest energy. They are filtered by the ozone layer into the atmosphere. Otherwise they would cause burns to our skin and eyes.

It is essential to protect yourself from artificial sources of UVC using personal protective equipment (PPE). These are: UVC - proof face shield/ goggles, as well as gloves and long-sleeved clothing. Radiation damages the cornea of ​​the eye after only a few seconds of exposure, so you should NEVER look at an illuminated UVC source without protection.

When working with UVC emitters, direct exposure of people, animals and plants to the rays must be avoided, using protective equipment such as metal sheets, specialty glass and electrical safety devices. In manufacturing, it is recommended to design professional UVC installations with built-in additional controls and constant radiation analysis.

Do UVC tubes emit ozone?

The high quality tubes / lamps we use do NOT emit ozone. They are made of materials that suppress its formation.

How long do UVC light tubes last?

We use only high quality lamps with an estimated life of over 9000 hours. The light sources has to be replaced when reaching 70% of the life cycle which is 6300 hours.

How to take care of our lamp?

It is best to clean the lamp manually. It is recommended to gently wipe the body of the appliance with a slightly damp cloth. You can also use a de-greaser if needed. To clean the reusable filter, unscrew the four bolts on its metal cover and remove it.

Where are UVC disinfection technologies used?

  • Hospitals

  • Schools

  • Offices

  • Offices

  • Shops

  • Toilets

  • Movie theaters

  • Laboratories

  • Airports

  • Restaurants

  • Hotels

  • Gaming halls