The science behind what makes UV-C an effective disinfectant
The disinfection power of UV-C has been known for over a century, but it’s only been utilized in certain industries, like healthcare and sanitation. Now, with the world facing a global pandemic, UV-C is getting renewed attention. Its use case is essentially limitless: any space, home, or business can benefit from the disinfection power of UV-C. But what exactly is UV-C light and how is it so effective at killing pathogens?
Nature’s most potent wavelength
Ultraviolet light comes in three forms: UV-A, UV-B, and UV-C. We’re exposed to UV-A and UV-B, the common type of radiation that causes sunburns. UV-C, on the other hand, is blocked by the ozone layer, and never reaches the earth’s surface. As a result, microorganisms haven't adapted to exposure, making UV-C a particularly effective disinfectant.
How does UV-C disinfect?
While UV-C light doesn’t reach the earth’s surface naturally, we’ve still been able to harness its power synthetically through ultraviolet germicidal irradiation. Essentially, UV-C wavelengths between 200 and 300 nanometers are used to destroy nucleic acid and disrupt the DNA of microorganisms, rendering them incapable of reproducing. As a result, UV-C disinfects anything it comes in contact with, whether in the air or on surfaces. With no byproducts or use of harsh chemicals, UV-C disinfection is an environmentally-friendly and chemical-free method to prevent the spread of harmful pathogens.
