Targeting the RNA + DNA of pathogens
Ultraviolet light can be split into UVA, UVB and UVC, with UVC being the part of the spectrum with the capability to disinfect.
UVC light of wavelengths between 200 and 280nm inhibits the reproduction of all known pathogens (including viruses, fungi, and bacteria). UVC rays of a wavelength of 254nm have been found to be optimal for killing pathogens, which is why our technology is calibrated to this wavelength.
The energy from the UVC rays is absorbed by RNA and DNA within pathogens which damages their molecular structures and kills them (see figures. 1 and 2).
Under laboratory conditions UVC has been shown to be effective against bacteriophages on surfaces and in air against influenza, adenovirus serotype and MHV coronavirus. It has also been shown to be harmful to humans too, which is why safety procedures must be adhered to when operating UVC disinfection technology.
Sources:
1. Tseng, C. C. and Li, C. S. (2007) ‘Inactivation of viruses on surfaces by ultraviolet germicidal irradiation’, Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, 4(6), pp. 400–405.
2. McDevitt, J. J., Rudnick, S. N. and Radonovich, L. J. (2012) ‘Aerosol susceptibility of influenza virus to UV-C light’, Applied and Environmental Microbiology, 78(6), pp. 1666–1669.
3. Walker, C. M. and Ko, G. (2007) ‘Effect of ultraviolet germicidal irradiation on viral aerosols’, Environmental Science and Technology, 41(15), pp. 5460–5465.
“The energy from the UVC rays is absorbed by RNA and DNA within pathogens which damages their molecular structures and kills them.”
Make an enquiry
If you’d like more information about the NeutraViolet™ UVC AS 450, AS 750 or our UVC AHU technology, please use the enquiry button below and we’ll contact you.