Who Uses UV Light Sterilization
Ultraviolet radiation is used to kill microorganisms, molds and fungus in various environmental applications. UV sterilization is used for air-purification systems, water purification, aquarium and pond maintenance, laboratory hygiene and food and beverage protection.
When to Use UV Light Sterilization
UV treatment generally takes place only inside a specialized UV exposure chamber. It is useful for targeted elimination of microorganisms in air and water. UV sterilization leaves no residual chemical or radiation in the air or water and is harmless to untargeted animals and plants. UV works well with waterborne pathogens. Water should be filtered prior to UV exposure to improve penetration and the sterilization effect. Sterilized microorganisms remain in the air or water.
Where to Use UV Light Sterilization
UV sterilization works well in applications where you want to clean up large quantities of microorganisms in air or water in aquariums, ponds, laboratories and clean rooms without leaving liquid or aerosol chemical residue behind.
How UV Light Sterilization Works
Ultraviolet light kills microorganisms by damaging the DNA. UV radiation disrupts the chemical bonds that hold the atoms of DNA together in the microorganism. If the damage is severe enough, the bacteria cannot repair the damage and will die. Longer exposure to UV light is necessary to ensure complete kill-off of all microorganisms. Unlike chemical treatments, UV-treated air or water does not resist re-contamination.
Why Use UV Light Sterilization
Ultraviolet light penetrates the cells, but does not alter the water, air or food being treated. Nothing is added to the medium except energy. Dead bugs also are not removed from the sterilized medium. Nor are organic or inorganic particles in the water or air. Some organisms, like certain molds, are not as affected by UV radiation. UV radiation is indicated in situations where chemical residue after sterilization is not acceptable
Tags: Light Sterilization, chemical residue, Light Sterilization Ultraviolet, microorganisms water, Sterilization Ultraviolet, Ultraviolet light