UV-C radiation is known for its disinfectant property. UV-C radiation has effectively reduced the spread of bacteria, such as tuberculosis. It has become a potent tool to fight infectious germs. Now, owing to the fear of infections from the contaminated surfaces, a clutch of disinfection devices has come up, all claiming to kill pathogens in a few minutes. However, many people are still not convinced and have questions about this device. So, here are a few points that can answer your questions about the UV disinfection box.

1. LEDs with “Violet/Purple” light is not always UV-C LED

Ultraviolet light (UV) gets its name from the “violet” colour it produces in the visible portion of the spectrum. It is well known that UVC has substantial germicidal and anti-bacterial effects. But not all the LED with “violet” light is UV-C LED. There are three types of UV wavelength categories: UV-A, UV-B and UV-C.

Each UV LED emitters with unique applications, which is much dependent on wavelength and output power. UV-A LEDs have been widely used in daily applications, the power output requirements for these fields are shallow, and the actual wavelengths used are in the 390nm-420nm range. This technology is the least expensive of all UV products and widely appeared in the flashlight market. The UVC and much of the UVB spectrums of light are primarily used for germicidal and sterilisation purposes. The wavelength ranges (approx. 250nm–300nm) are an effective area, eliminating microorganisms by destroying nucleic acids and disrupting their DNA. And as a result, this property is found to be effective against COVID-19. The UV-C light (around 265nm) has the most potent bactericidal effect. Since the lower in wavelength, typically the higher the LED cost, so when you are searching for one UV-C LED sterilisation light, you should know the wavelength of assembled LEDs first. It relates to both price and germicidal effects. Only the LEDs, including 100nm – 280nm wavelength can be used for sterilisation.

2. High radiation intensity of UV-C light better for germicidal

The effectiveness of UV light sterilisation depends on the intensity of the radiation. UV-C LED is still not strong enough, and it cannot replace the medical sterilisation ultraviolet mercury lamp. The high power-consuming mercury lamps ask for high driving working voltage, so most UV-C lights are operated by 100-240 Volt AC power and needs work at home. Small size UVC LED can be matched with different applications, with high portability, it began to play a role in the sterilisation of general daily use. Also, it needs to be accomplished with high working voltage for the best effectiveness of UV-C light.

3. UV-C LEDs should not be blocked

UV radiation needs to fall directly on a surface to be fully effective. If light waves are blocked by dirt or obstacles, then areas will not be disinfected. So, to get the best disinfection effect, when put UV-C LEDs inside the product, there should no lens or cover above the light.

4. Hidden UV-C lighting features for protection

UV-C light could be harmful to the eyes and skin. UV devices warning labels on the products can be helpful. Thus UV-C exposure also can be reduced through product safety design considerations and controls.

How Minionlabs can help with UV technology?

UV Saaph is a portable device that can sanitise everything and anything instantly within four minutes. The model is designed in such a way that the light energy from UV-C lamps are exposed to the object placed inside the box at 360-degree, ensuring complete disinfection. This device has been independently assessed and compliant with the requirement of the ISO 15858:2016.