UV light has been used to for disinfection for decades, but with the recent rapid spread of COVID-19, testing and usage of UV light has become more widely accepted.
UV light can be both natural and artificial including:
- Sunlight (UVA and UVB)
- Solar simulators
- LEDs
- Pulsed Xenon sources
- Excimer lamps
- Mercury lamps
Short-wave light below 280 nm (UVC and FAR UV) emitted from the sun are absorbed in our atmosphere before reaching the earth’s surface. Short-wave UV light was first discovered as an effective way to kill germs over 140 years ago.
The primary wavelengths used to inactivate viruses, mold, mildew and other bacteria and pathogens range from 200 – 280 nm, with a peak effectiveness near 265 nm. UV light penetrates the walls of the pathogens and alters its DNA so it cannot reproduce. This process renders the pathogen ‘inactive.’
Selecting a UV meter can be challenging, but ILT is always happy to help. The meter /sensor should be carefully selected to ensure a proper match to both the light source and the specifics of the application.
Watch our latest video Application overview!
Browse our collection of UV Light Meters: UVC Light Meters & Detectors