100 Years of data - Far-UVC Impact on Pathogens, Cells, Skin, and Eyes

The coronavirus pandemic requires new disinfection approaches, especially for airborne viruses. The 254 nm emission of low-pressure vacuum lamps is known for its antimicrobial effect, but unfortunately, this radiation is also harmful to human cells. Some researchers published reports that short-wavelength ultraviolet light in the spectral region of 200–230 nm (far-UVC) should inactivate pathogens without harming human cells, which might be very helpful in many applications.

Methods

A literature search on the impact of far-UVC radiation on pathogens, cells, skin, and eyes was performed and median log-reduction doses for different pathogens and wavelengths were calculated. Observed damage to cells, ski,n and eyes was collected and presented in standardized form.

Results

More than 100 papers on far-UVC disinfection, published within the last 100 years, were found. Far-UVC radiation, especially the 222 nm emission of KrCl excimer lamps, exhibits strong antimicrobial properties. The average necessary log-reduction doses are 1.3 times higher than with 254 nm irradiation. A dose of 100 mJ/cm2 reduces all pathogens by several orders of magnitude without harming human cells, if optical filters block emissions above 230 nm.

Conclusion

The approach is very promising, especially for temporary applications, but the data is still sparse. Investigations with high far-UVC doses over a longer period have not yet been carried out, and there is no positive study on the impact of this radiation on human eyes. Additionally, far-UVC sources are unavailable in larger quantities. Therefore, this is not a short-term solution for the pandemic but may be suitable for future technological approaches for decontamination in rooms in the presence of people or for antisepsis.

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