How Do Ultraviolet Lamps Kill Bacteria?

Ultraviolet (UV) lamps harness the power of ultraviolet radiation which is a proven disinfectant and deodorizer. Ultraviolet, or beyond violet, is electromagnetic energy which is actually invisible to the human eye.  UV light is measured in wavelengths, referred to as nanometers (nm),  and falls into three basic categories of UVA, UVB and UVC light.

UVC radiation when emitted at precisely 254 nm is proven to be highly effective at eliminating bacteria, viruses, mold spores, fungi, mildew, harmful microorganisms and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). UVC germicidal lamps are proven to instantly eradicate these harmful contaminants in many surface, water and air purification systems.

When UVC wavelengths emitted at 254 nm are exposed to these harmful microorganisms, the UV radiation instantly penetrates the DNA of these living cells and alters the DNA so they cannot replicate. Harmful microorganisms that cannot replicate are considered to be harmless. UV radiation emitted at 185 nm produces ozone which is proven to oxidize, sanitize and deodorize foul odors.

LightSources Offers UVC Germicidal Lamp Solutions

The LightSources Group is recognized worldwide as an authority on UV lamp design and engineering for a multitude of industries including UVC germicidal applications. UVC germicidal lamps are typically low pressure, Mercury lamps which are engineered to emit precisely 254 nm of UVC radiation while producing a Mercury arc. These powerful germicidal lamps contain a blend of gases such as Neon and Argon or custom blends.

The LightSources Group is experienced in designing custom phosphor blends to reach the desired wavelength emission. Germicidal lamp bodies are typically manufactured in fused quartz designed to emit 185 nm and 254 nm, a quartz and titanium blend which blocks out 185 nm to prevent ozone production or a soft glass lamp body.

LightSources also offers surface sterilization lamps which emit 222 nm and are Mercury free. This UVC germicidal lamp warm-up instantly with 100% effectiveness without requiring the typical warm-up time of other UVC germicidal lamps.  The Excimer series is highly effective for surface sterilization and can be found in many commercial, industrial and residential applications.

The LightSources Group delivers high-tech lamp solutions with cutting-edge, UV technology. We are dedicated to delivering long-lasting high quality and cost-efficient OEM oriented solutions. Contact us to learn more about our wide selection of lamp products and with any questions on UVC germicidal lamps.