Ultraviolet-C (UV-C) light is effective at disinfecting surfaces and air by inactivating microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and mold. UV-C light has a wavelength range of 200 to 280 nanometers, and within this range, it has germicidal properties. It works by disrupting the DNA and RNA of microorganisms, preventing them from reproducing and rendering them harmless.

Ultraviolet (UV) light is a form of electromagnetic radiation with shorter wavelengths than visible light. UV light is divided into different categories based on wavelength: UV-A, UV-B, and UV-C. UV-C light, with wavelengths between 200 and 280 nanometers, is particularly effective at killing bacteria, viruses, and fungi because it has germicidal properties. UV-C light works by damaging the genetic material (DNA or RNA) of microorganisms, preventing them from replicating and causing infections. The most common mechanism involves the formation of thymine or cytosine dimers in the DNA, where adjacent thymine or cytosine bases bond together. This damage disrupts the normal functioning of the genetic material, leading to the death or inactivation of the microorganism. Here's a more detailed explanation of how UV-C light affects different microorganisms: Bacteria: UV-C light penetrates the bacterial cell wall and disrupts the DNA inside. When the DNA absorbs UV-C energy, it forms covalent bonds between adjacent thymine bases, creating thymine dimers. This disrupts the DNA structure and prevents the bacteria from replicating, rendering them unable to cause infections. Viruses: UV-C light can inactivate viruses by damaging their genetic material. Since viruses rely on host cells to replicate, preventing the replication of their genetic material effectively neutralizes them. UV-C light is effective against a wide range of viruses, including influenza, coronaviruses, and other pathogens. Fungi: UV-C light can inhibit the growth and reproduction of fungi by damaging their DNA. This prevents fungal spores from germinating and forming new organisms. UV-C light is commonly used for disinfecting surfaces, air, and water in environments where fungal contamination is a concern.

UV-C light destroys viruses, bacteria, protozoa, fungi, yeasts, and algae. Interestingly, UV-C does not penetrate proteins such as the keratin in our skin, nails & hair or the elastin in our lungs. GDW Fulfillment systems are designed with safety in mind. We recommend UV-C-coated protective glasses, a long-sleeved shirt, and gloves if using the hand-held Anthem One Cube. Our ceiling Air filtration systems are completely enclosed and can be used in an occupied room without being exposed to UV-C light. Our high-touch Adapt unit automatically shuts off when detecting human action near the unit. No additional caution measures are needed. If you are exposed to direct germicidal light, it can burn the top surface of your skin. If your eyes are exposed, your eyes can feel dry or gritty. At no time do germicidal lamps cause any permanent damage.

The average bacteria will be inactivated in seconds or minutes depending on three important aspects of ultraviolet light. This is important to understand when calculating the pathogen kill time for your space. One aspect is the intensity or killing power of the source of UV-C, the second is the distance from that source, and the third is the time exposed to the source. Now let's get nerdy. The inverse square law applies to germicidal ultraviolet energy as it does to visible light: the intensity decreases as the distance from the lamps increases. For example, a high-intensity output will eliminate pathogens faster than a low-intensity output covering the same distance. However, add in time. The low-intensity UV-C light source can destroy as many pathogens as the high-intensity light given enough time exposure. Let's consider distance. The light source intensity or killing power decreases with longer distances. Does that mean the light is not going to disinfect the complete distance of a room? No. The further the distance from the UV-C light source, the longer exposure time is needed to eliminate pathogens.

UVGI stands for Ultraviolet Germicidal Irradiation. It's a disinfection method that uses ultraviolet (UV) light to kill or inactive microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and molds. UVGI is commonly used in air purifiers, water treatment, and other applications to improve indoor air quality and reduce the spread of infectious diseases.