New Study Highlights UV222 Lamp in Safe Pathogen Inactivation

A recent study presented at the 1st International Online Conference on Photonics in October 2024 has reinforced the importance of selecting the right Far-UVC sources for pathogen inactivation while ensuring human safety. This research compared multiple Far-UVC sources, including filtered and unfiltered KrCl lamps, Far-UVC LEDs, and conventional mercury vapor lamps, assessing their intensity stability, antimicrobial efficiency, and potential health risks. The findings strongly support the use of filtered KrCl lamps as a reliable and safe solution for continuous decontamination in occupied spaces.

Read the entire study here

UV Medico as an Industry Reference

At UV Medico, we were not aware that our lamps were being used in this study, but we are proud to be recognized as a reference point in the industry. Our dedication to developing scientifically validated, human-safe decontamination solutions aligns with the latest research findings. We actively collaborate with researchers, industry experts, and policymakers to ensure that the adoption of Far-UVC technology meets the highest standards of safety and efficacy.

Key Findings: Filtered KrCl Lamps Lead the Way

1. Superior Intensity Stability

The study measured the long-term intensity stability of various Far-UVC sources over 100 hours. The two filtered 222 nm KrCl lamps, including UV Medico's UV222 lamp, demonstrated remarkable stability, achieving steady-state intensity within just 30 minutes. Other sources, including unfiltered KrCl lamps and Far-UVC LEDs, exhibited fluctuations even after 100 hours, raising concerns about their reliability in maintaining consistent pathogen inactivation levels. This stability is crucial for real-world applications where maintaining a continuous and effective level of decontamination is paramount.

2. Consistent Antimicrobial Effectiveness

The study confirms that filtered KrCl lamps can reliably deliver this consistent performance, making them a preferred choice for use in hospitals, cleanrooms, and public spaces where decontamination is critical. All tested Far-UVC sources exhibited similar antimicrobial efficiency, reinforcing Far-UVC’s powerful germicidal properties. However, achieving a consistent and effective dose over time is crucial, highlighting the importance of intensity stability in practical applications. 

3. Prioritizing Human Safety

The study calculated the potential hazard to human eyes and skin using current ACGIH exposure guidelines. The results showed that filtered KrCl lamps had the lowest risk, with hazard levels 25 times lower than traditional 254 nm mercury lamps. Unfiltered KrCl lamps and Far-UVC LEDs exhibited significantly higher human risk due to their longer-wavelength emissions above 240 nm. This finding further supports the notion that proper filtering is essential to ensuring the safe deployment of Far-UVC solutions in environments where people are present.

Expanding the Applications of Far-UVC Technology

With the continued validation of Far-UVC’s efficacy and safety, new opportunities for deployment are emerging. Healthcare facilities, cleanrooms, public transportation, and commercial buildings can all benefit from the ability to provide continuous decontamination without disrupting daily operations. The ability to reduce airborne and surface pathogens in real-time presents a transformative solution for infection control and public health safety.

Moreover, as the global conversation on hygiene and disease prevention continues to evolve, industries such as food processing, hospitality, and retail are increasingly considering Far-UVC as a valuable addition to their sanitation protocols. By investing in high-quality, filtered KrCl lamps, organizations can ensure that they are implementing solutions that prioritize both effectiveness and the well-being of their employees and customers.

A Future Built on Science and Safety

This research affirms that filtered KrCl lamps, such as UV Medico’s UV222, represent the safest and most stable choice for real-world pathogen inactivation. We remain dedicated to developing innovative solutions backed by rigorous scientific validation, ensuring that businesses, healthcare institutions, and cleanroom environments have access to the best possible Far-UVC technology.

We are honored to be part of the global conversation on Far-UVC safety and effectiveness and look forward to continuing our contributions to research and industry advancements. Through ongoing partnerships, product development, and educational initiatives, we aim to drive the responsible adoption of this groundbreaking technology.