Far-UVC light, a new type of ultraviolet light, is emerging as a potential game-changer in preventing the spread of airborne diseases. Unlike conventional UV light used for sterilizing spaces when unoccupied, Far-UVC operates at a wavelength that is not harmful to people.
This innovation could play a crucial role in preventing future pandemics by reducing the transmission of diseases like COVID-19 and influenza.
Insights from Dr. David Brenner
Dr. David Brenner, the Director of the Center for Radiological Research at Columbia University, highlights the advantages of Far-UVC light over traditional UV methods. According to Dr. Brenner, this technology uses a wavelength that does not penetrate the skin or eyes, making it safe for continuous use in occupied spaces.
Key Findings from Recent Research
Dr. Brenner and his team conducted research showing that Far-UVC light can kill 98% of indoor airborne microbes in less than five minutes. This rapid effectiveness suggests that Far-UVC could significantly reduce the transmission of airborne viruses, including emerging variants of SARS-CoV-2 and other infectious agents.
“We know there are going to be new variants that haven’t reached us yet, and the nice thing about Far-UVC is it should be effective against every type of virus,” says Dr. Brenner. One of the key benefits of Far-UVC light is that viruses and bacteria cannot develop resistance to it, unlike with vaccines and antibiotics.
Advantages of Far-UVC Technology
Far-UVC light operates at a wavelength of 222 nm, which is filtered by a special optical bandpass filter to exclude harmful UV wavelengths. This makes it a safe and effective option for disinfecting indoor environments without posing risks to human health.
Key Benefits Include:
- Safety: Far-UVC light does not cause sunburn, skin cancer, or cataracts. It is absorbed only by the dead outer layer of skin cells and does not penetrate deeper tissues.
- Effective Sterilization: UV light at this wavelength destroys the DNA and RNA of viruses and bacteria, effectively inactivating them.
- Versatility: Far-UVC technology can be installed in high locations, such as ceilings, to continuously disinfect air and surfaces in spaces like schools, hospitals, offices, and more.
Applications of Care222® Technology
Ushio’s Care222® technology, featuring a mercury-free UV excimer lamp and a special bandpass filter, exemplifies the potential of Far-UVC light. This technology provides a practical solution for:
- Healthcare Facilities: Reducing infection rates in hospitals, dental offices, and medical rooms.
- Public Spaces: Enhancing safety in schools, stadiums, offices, and other high-traffic areas.
- General Use: Offering continuous disinfection in environments where people are present, such as elevators and classrooms.
The Future of Far-UVC Light
As awareness of airborne pathogens and their transmission increases, Far-UVC light is poised to become an integral part of infection control strategies. Its ability to provide continuous disinfection in occupied spaces while being safe for humans makes it a valuable addition to traditional methods like filtration and ventilation.
For more information about Ushio’s Care222® technology and its applications, visit www.care222.com.
My Lumens Artemis Far UVC Disinfection Devices equipped with Care222 module(filtered far uvc 222nm technology) developed by Ushio.
• Does not cause sunburn, skin cancer or cataracts
Ultraviolet rays with a wavelength of 222 nm are absorbed by the cornea of the stratum corneum of dead cells, so they do not cause damage such as sunburn, skin cancer, and cataracts.
• Virus suppression / sterilization
Ultraviolet rays with a wavelength of 222 nm destroy the DNA / RNA structure of viruses and cells, and suppress and sterilize them.
• Continuously disinfecting in occupied space but not harmful to skin and eyes of people, which could be used in dental offices, medical rooms, high-end offices, elevators, hospitals, class rooms, etc.
Care for you, Safe for you, and Protect you!
