Part of a Larger Category: UV Light
As shown in our “What is Ultraviolet Light?” FAQ, UV light is composed of 3 subcategories: UV-A, UV-B, and UV-C. Germicidal ultraviolet light is the wavelength range called UV-C, between 100 and 280 nanometers (nm). This range is germicidal because it destroys certain cellular components of disease-causing microorganisms, rendering them harmless.
| UV Type | Wavelength Range (nanometers) |
|---|---|
| UV-A | 315–400 nm |
| UV-B | 280–315 nm |
| UV-C | 100–280 nm |
How Germicidal Ultraviolet Light Works
While various UV-C wavelengths are harnessed by germicidal UV lamps on the market, those sold by Atlantic Ultraviolet Corporation® produce 95% of their rays at 254 nm (see Table A). This specific wavelength, being within the range of maximum germicidal effectiveness, has been shown to damage the nucleic acid of harmful bacteria, viruses, and mold (Table B).
Table A
Table B
How Microorganisms are Destroyed
Step 1: Formation of Covalent Bonds
UV-C rays (254 nm) form covalent bonds between certain adjacent bases in the microorganism’s DNA.
Step 2: Replication Prevented
The formation of these bonds prevents the DNA from being unzipped for replication.
Step 3: Microorganisms Die
The microorganisms — whether bacteria, viruses, or mold spores — are unable to reproduce. When they try to replicate, they die.
How Close Must Germicidal UV Light Be to the Microorganisms?
It should be noted that UV-C wavelengths at or around 254 nm are effective when microorganisms are directly exposed — whether in an enclosed chamber, an unoccupied area, or an upper portion of a room. Read our FAQs on how UV water purifiers work and how UV air and surface models work. While wavelengths between about 200 and 300 nm are strongly absorbed by nucleic acids, occupied areas have sometimes utilized the “far UV” range (200–235 nm) produced by certain lamps. Since these intensities do not penetrate as deeply into human skin as 254 nm lamps, they are believed to be safer when distanced properly from people.
Learn More & Shop UV Disinfection
Ultraviolet.com is your source for learning about germicidal ultraviolet technology and its many uses for water, liquid, air, and surfaces. Browse the following pages for more information.
Shop at AtlanticUltraviolet.com
- Shop UV-C Water & Liquid Disinfectionopen_in_new
- Shop UV-C Air & Surface Disinfectionopen_in_new
- Shop STER-L-RAY® Germicidal UV Lampsopen_in_new
- Shop Safety Productsopen_in_new
Contact Us
- Call (631) 273-0500, Monday – Friday 7am to 6pm EST
- Email Sales@AtlanticUV.com
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