Far-UVC Light

What is Far-UVC light?

Far-UVC light represents a cutting-edge approach to decontamination, operating within the 200-230 nm wavelength range. At 222 nm, it effectively inactivates microorganisms while remaining safe for applications within occupied spaces when applied within regulatory limits. Far-UVC can neutralize pathogens such as coronavirus, influenza virus, MRSA, and Candida auris, enhancing environmental safety. The germicidal efficacy and favorable safety profile of Far-UVC light have been validated by numerous peer-reviewed scientific publications [1][2][3].

Cleanrooms and healthcare facilities are among the most beneficial application areas for Far-UVC, as these areas require the highest hygiene standards.

In cleanrooms, Far-UVC inactivates microorganisms and prevents costly excursions. Utilizing Far-UVC in the highest-grade cleanrooms helps manufacturers of sterile products comply with stringent hygiene protocols such as Annex 1.

In healthcare facilities, Far-UVC effectively inactivates pathogens in the air and on surfaces, potentially reducing the risk of disease transmission and hospital-acquired infections (HAIs). Far-UVC can be installed directly in occupied spaces such as operating rooms or patient rooms, providing continuous decontamination throughout the day. Far-UVC offers an extra layer of protection, inactivating pathogens between cleaning sessions and enhancing safety for both staff and patients [2][4].

Sources:

1. Nature - Far-UVC light (222 nm) efficiently and safely inactivates airborne pathogens

2. Nature - 222 nm far-UVC light markedly reduces the level of infectious airborne pathogens

3. Columbia University Irving Medical Center - New Type of Ultraviolet Light Makes Indoor Air as Safe as Outdoors

4. Nature - Far-UVC (222 nm) efficiently inactivates an airborne pathogen in a room-sized chamber

5. Wiley - Assessing the safety of new germicidal far-UVC technologies

6. PubMed - The impact of far-UVC radiation (200-230 nm) on pathogens, cells, skin, and eyes 

What is a UV222 lamp

The UV222 lamp from UV Medico is a filtered Far-UVC lamp emitting light at 222 nm

UV222  emits Far-UVC light with a favorable safety profile for use in occupied spaces when utilizing appropriate doses and patented safety filter technology.

Safe for use in occupied spaces

• Numerous independent research projects have demonstrated that Far-UV light at 222 nm, when applied in the correct doses, can inactivate pathogens while minimally penetrating the outer layers of human skin and eyes. 

Complies with all regulatory limits

• UV222 emits Far-UVC light that complies with local, European, and global safety guidelines.

The technology behind Far-UVC

UV Medico’s Far-UVC lamp consists of a tube filled with krypton chloride gas. This gas has the unique property of emitting UVC-light at 222 nm when a discharge is applied to it. When the lamp is turned on, electricity creates a discharge that excites the gas and after a short period, Far-UVC light at 222 nm is emitted.

A Far-UVC lamp without a filter emits light in a narrow band around a 222 nm peak, but also releases secondary emissions around 235 nm and 250 nm. These extra wavelengths are known as side-bands or side-emissions. These wavelengths harm humans, but the unique and patented safety filter in UV222 blocks them before they are emitted into the surrounding environment.

The safety filter technology in the UV222 lamp is a thin filter that allows the light around 222 nm to pass through and blocks all other unwanted radiation. It works in a similar way to sunglasses with UV protection, blocking the UV radiation from passing through and entering the environment, making the light from UV222 safe when applied in correct doses within regulatory limits.

Why Far-UVC light leads to a safer world

Far-UVC in Aseptic Filling Lines

UV Medico's Far-UVC technology offers cutting-edge solutions for aseptic manufacturing, particularly enhancing aseptic filling lines. Integrating Far-UVC systems into existing facilities ensures continuous decontamination of air and surfaces, maintaining an ultra-clean environment crucial for product integrity and patient safety. Key applications include:

Vertex 222 creates a microbe-safe zone around aseptic couplings to filling-line inlets, significantly reducing contamination risks and protecting batch integrity.

UV222 Booth and UV222 Step-On systems prevent gowned personnel from introducing microbial contamination into Grade A and B cleanrooms, addressing a major source of contamination.

UV222 Linear is designed to enhance microbial control along aseptic filling lines, continuously killing bacteria and spore-forming microorganisms, and seamlessly integrating with existing laminar airflow systems in ceilings for operational productivity.

These technologies underscore UV Medico's commitment to leveraging advanced solutions to improve cleanroom conditions, ensuring the safety and quality of pharmaceutical products in aseptic filling lines.

Read more about it here

What is the difference between UVA, UVB and UVC

The ultraviolet (UV) radiation spectrum is divided into three primary regions - UVA, UVB, and UVC - each defined by its range of wavelengths and potential health and environmental effects. When “Far-UVC” is referred to, it is the wavelength range at the lower end of the UVC spectrum. Here is an overview of each wavelength range and how they differ:

UVA

• Wavelength range: Typically includes wavelengths from 315 nm to 400 nm. UVA light is the closest to visible light in the UV spectrum and makes up approximately 95% of the UV radiation from the sun that reaches the earth’s surface.

• Effects: UVA penetrates the skin more deeply than UVB and UVC and is primarily associated with skin ageing effects and may contribute to some types of skin cancer after prolonged exposure[1].

UVB

• Wavelength range: Typically includes wavelengths from 280 nm to 315 nm. UVB is the middle range of the UV spectrum and makes up approximately 5% of the UV radiation from the sun that reaches the earth’s surface.

• Effects: UVB affects the outer layer of skin (epidermis) and is responsible for sunburns. Although it represents a smaller percentage of the UV radiation that reaches earth's surface compared to UVA, its potential for causing skin cancer is significantly higher due to its energy being sufficient to cause direct DNA damage[1].

UVC

• Wavelength range: Typically includes wavelengths from 100 nm to 280 nm, with Far-UVC defined as the range between 200-230 nm. UVC is blocked by the atmosphere and does not reach the earth's surface.

• Effects: UVC inactivates microorganisms by damaging their DNA, but can also be harmful to humans [1][2]. The exception is Far-UVC, which is also highly absorbed by proteins, minimizing the penetration into human tissues. This characteristic makes Far-UVC a promising decontamination technology that can be used in occupied spaces.

In summary, the main differences between UVA, UVB, UVC and Far-UVC are their wavelengths and their biological effects. UVA is the least damaging to DNA and is primarily associated with aging, UVB is more energetic and harmful, can cause sunburn and increase the risk of cancer, UVC is a known germicide, and Far-UVC is both germicidal and safe for using in occupied spaces.

Sources:

1. Differences Between UVA, UVB & UVC Rays | UPMC HealthBeat

2. Radiation: Ultraviolet (UV) radiation - World Health Organization (WHO)

222 nm vs 254 nm

The primary differences between 222 nm far-UVC light and 254 nm UVC light pertain to their germicidal effectiveness and safety profile.

1. Germicidal Efficiency:

   • 254 nm UVC Light: This wavelength is traditionally used for germicidal purposes because it is highly effective at inactivating microorganisms, such as bacteria and viruses, by damaging their DNA or RNA. UV light at 254 nm is a common choice in disinfection technology typically used in various sanitary applications.

   • 222 nm Far-UVC Light: Far-UVC light has also been shown to be efficient at killing microorganisms and is comparable to conventional germicidal UV light in effectiveness. However, it has the added advantage of being less harmful to human skin and eyes with growing evidence demonstrating it can safely be used in occupied spaces, when applied in correct doses 12.

2. Safety for Human Exposure:

   • 254 nm UVC Light: It is harmful to human tissues and can cause skin burns and eye injuries if direct exposure occurs. Consequently, UV lights at this wavelength must be used in controlled environments or when no humans are present.

   • 222 nm Far-UVC Light: Far-UVC light's lower penetration ability makes it safe for regular human exposure when applied within regulatory limits, even at doses that inactivate viruses and bacteria in the air and on surfaces. This opens up possibilities for using Far-UVC light in public or occupied spaces to control pathogens without posing a significant health risk to humans 12.

Sources:

1. From "Nature" Article about 222 nm far-UVC light efficiently and safely inactivating airborne pathogens. Available at: Nature.com ↩ ↩2

2. From "Atophort" news addressing the differences between UV-C 254nm and Far-UVC 222nm. Available at: Atophort.com ↩ ↩2

Candida auris and Far-UVC

Recent research indicates that Far-UVC technology is highly effective against Candida auris (C. auris), a multidrug-resistant yeast posing a significant healthcare challenge. Far-UVC light was able to inactivate 99% of C. auris on various medical equipment surfaces within 45 minutes without manual intervention. This breakthrough suggests Far-UVC can improve hospital hygiene by offering continuous decontamination in occupied spaces. UV Medico provides Far-UVC solutions, including UV222 Downlight, UV222 Linear, and Vertex 222, aimed at combating C. auris in healthcare settings and enhancing overall infection control.

Far-UVC and Mold

Molds have the troubling ability to invade any moist area, from the corners of our homes to the confines of hospital rooms, degrading the air we breathe with airborne spores. These spores are far from harmless; they can instigate severe asthma and allergies in healthy people and, in the context of a hospital, present a critical risk to those patients already at their most vulnerable.

At UV Medico, our latest research delved into the effectiveness of Far-UVC light at 222 nm (UV222) in combating these pervasive spore-producing molds. Our results showed that even minimal, intermittent exposure to UV222 is powerful enough to stop mold growth in its tracks, reflecting a practical application in everyday environments. This highlights the potential of UV222 to significantly improve indoor air quality and reduce the risk of dangerous fungal infections.

What are the benefits of Far-UVC

The benefits of far-UVC light, particularly around the 222 nm wavelength, have become increasingly notable for their potential in creating safer indoor environments without harming human health. Recent studies have highlighted several key advantages:

1. Can be used in occupied spaces:

   Research from David Brenner's lab at Columbia University's Center for Radiological Research indicates that Far-UVC light does not cause damage in a 3-dimensional model of human skin. Moreover, in experiments with hairless mice exposed to Far-UVC light for 8 hours a day over 15 months, there were no signs of skin damage. These findings suggest that Far-UVC light could be safely employed in occupied spaces, making it a viable option for continuous disinfection in presence of people[1].

2. Efficiency in Inactivating Airborne Pathogens:

   A study published in "Nature" demonstrates that far-UVC light (222 nm) is efficient at inactivating airborne pathogens, including coronaviruses, without the need for higher, potentially harmful exposures. This efficacy, alongside the safety data, supports the idea that far-UVC lighting systems could be feasibly and safely introduced into public and private spaces to drastically reduce pathogen transmission through the air[2].

3. Real-World Application:

   Research by Columbia researchers has shown that Far-UVC light can inactivate more than 99% of airborne viruses in occupied indoor settings, such as workplaces. This demonstrates far-UVC's real-life applicability and potential to significantly lower airborne virus concentrations, thereby reducing the risk of disease transmission among people in such environments[3].

4. Protection Against Airborne Transmission of Diseases:

   Innovations in UV air disinfection technology, including Far-UVC, are recognized for their potential to reduce airborne transmission of diseases like COVID-19 and influenza. This is particularly relevant in combating pandemics and seasonal outbreaks, enhancing health protection in various settings[4].

These benefits point towards a broader acceptance and implementation of far-UVC technology, especially as a preventative measure against the spread of airborne diseases in indoor environments. The technology holds promise for creating spaces that are both safe and continuously decontaminated.

Sources:

1. New Type of Ultraviolet Light Makes Indoor Air as Safe as Outdoors

2. Far-UVC light (222 nm) efficiently and safely inactivates airborne pathogens

3. Columbia Study Proves Far-UVC Light Nearly Eradicates Airborne Viruses in Workspaces

4. New UV air disinfection technology could help protect against health...

Does Far-UVC create Ozone

Far-UVC lamps generate ozone, but the amounts are very low and below the limits for health concerns.

Real-world measurements of indoor ozone levels in a hotel room and in an office have confirmed these negligible levels, even in poorly ventilated rooms. The study can be accessed here: Wiley Online Library. Therefore, the UV222 lamps comply with recommended ozone levels and can safely be used indoors.

What is Filtered Far-UVC

Filtered Far-UVC refers to a specific approach in utilizing ultraviolet C (UVC) light, specifically at single wavelengths like 222 nm, that has been engineered to minimize or eliminate wavelengths longer than 230 nm through filtration. This is achieved by using specialized excimer lamps designed to produce UVC light, with a filtration system in place to ensure that only the desired, safer spectrum of UVC light is emitted. The goal of filtered Far-UVC light is to inactivate airborne pathogens, including viruses and bacteria, without inducing biological damage to human skin or eyes. The utilization of this technology represents a promising method for disinfecting air in occupied spaces efficiently and safely[1][2].

Given its ability to eliminate pathogens while posing minimal risk to human health, filtered Far-UVC light is being explored as a revolutionary disinfection technology. It could potentially play a critical role in reducing the transmission of diseases such as COVID-19 and influenza in public and private spaces[3]. This specific spectrum of UVC light (around 222 nm) is of particular interest because it has the capability to inactivate microbes effectively with only minimal penetration of the outer, dead layer of human skin or the outer tear layer of the eye, thus mitigating concerns associated with traditional UVC light exposure

Far-UVC lights for home use

At present, UV Medico doesn’t offer a product specifically designed for home environments. While our lamps are technically capable of operating in residential settings, they are primarily engineered with Healthcare and Cleanroom applications in mind.

However, the market does offer alternatives tailored for home use. As highlighted in our "Technology" section, it’s important to note that not all Far-UVC lighting is created equal, and many products intended for home use may pose safety risks to humans because of the wavelength of light.

A significant concern revolves around lamps containing mercury—these are not only hazardous but often ineffective for safe home use. We strongly advise ensuring any Far-UVC lamp you consider for your home is rated at 222 nm, steering clear of models rated above 230 nm that currently dominate the market.

Feel free to reach out, if you have concerns about Far-UVC lamps for home use.

Other uses of Far-UVC

Far-UVC light, particularly around the wavelength of 222 nm, has shown promise beyond its primary application for disinfection due to its ability to inactivate airborne pathogens without harming exposed human tissues. Here are several potential uses for Far-UVC.

Airborne Infection Mitigation in Occupied Spaces:

Far-UVC technology offers efficient air disinfection in spaces where people are present, effectively reducing the transmission risk of airborne infections such as COVID-19 and influenza. This application is significant in environments like hospitals, schools, public transport, and other crowded indoor settings.

Disease Transmission Reduction:

There's confidence in Far-UVC's ability to lower the spread of diseases, backed by historical precedents with germicidal UV (GUV) applications. However, further real-world evaluations are needed to fully leverage Far-UVC's potential in public and private environments to reduce disease transmission effectively.

Surface Disinfection:

Beyond air disinfection, Far-UVC can be used for sanitizing surfaces in real time. This application can be particularly valuable in public spaces such as restrooms, supermarkets, and restaurants, where high-touch surfaces are common.

While the primary focus of Far-UVC technology has been on its ability to mitigate airborne pathogens safely, these additional applications underline the broader potential of Far-UVC in public health, safety, and environmental quality. Ongoing research and development will likely continue to expand the use cases for this promising technology.