An Intro into Ultraviolet Germicidal Irradiation (UVGI)
The OctaClean 300 and 1300
What is UV light?
With the current COVID-19 pandemic affecting almost every corner of the world, a simple google search of “UV light” will yield hundreds of news articles touting the use of different products and their ability to kill the novel coronavirus. But what is ultraviolet light? UV light is a naturally occurring form of electromagnetic radiation that is present in sunlight in three forms (UV-A, UV-B, & UV-C) based on the light’s wavelength. Ultraviolet light makes up about 10% of the total light produced by the sun but only about 1/3 of that light reaches the earth’s surface, according to the National Toxicology Program (NTP). Sunburns and sun tans are attributable to mid-length UVB light (280-315 nanometers [nm]) but for air purification and surface disinfection, usually shorter-length, UVC light (100-280nm) is used.
A Brief History of UVGI
While ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) is not yet widely used in commercial and residential applications, the disinfectant properties of ultraviolet light have been known for over 140 years. Beginning with Downes and Blunt’s research in 1877, the two discovered that sunlight had antimicrobial effects, especially at shorter wavelengths. Research continued through the early 1900’s with a greater emphasis put on studying the disinfectant ability of different wavelengths of UV-light, which includes UV-A, UV-B, and UV-C wavelengths and the invention of the UV quartz lamp in 1904. Because of this research it was determined that UV-C light was the most biologically active radiation and could destroy the DNA in harmful microorganisms such as mold, bacteria, and viruses.
How we use UVGI
Ultraviolet technology is a non-chemical approach to disinfection which utilizes germicidal lamps that are designed and calculated to produce a certain dosage of UV light. In this method of disinfection, nothing is added which makes this process simple, inexpensive and requires very low maintenance. At PureUV we provide ultraviolet light systems that kill 99.9% of bacteria, viruses, and mold. The process is food safe and chemical free. Our mobile room sterilizers may be placed in any room that needs air and surface disinfection. The UV lamps can disinfect a room in just minutes. Residential and commercial clients can also install a PureUV ventilation system within their current HVAC system, eliminating bacteria, mold, and viruses that pass through the system itself. This process prevents those toxins from entering the coils of the HVAC system which will prolong the life of your system, potentially passing thousands of dollars worth of savings to you.
Reach out to our team today to learn about our services or set up an appointment. We offer 24/7 service and are here to accommodate your needs and keep you and your customers safe.