Are UV Sterilization Lamps Effective?

UV sterilization is now growing popular and being accepted increasingly for disinfecting. This procedure of sterilizing has been in practice since the mid-20s. But with the advancement of technology, the usage of UV rays for disinfecting places and materials has changed significantly.

Most people now use UV sterilization lamps that are small in size and last for a long time. This makes it convenient and easy to use for disinfecting almost every substance and at any place. These lamps are capable of purifying water, air, vegetables, fruits, surfaces, surgical utensils, and many other things.

Now, the fact is, not all UV rays are effective in killing microorganisms. Thus, you must know that there are three types of UV and only one UV is useful for killing all kinds of germs. The three types of UV are UVA, UVB, and UVC. Among these three, the UVC is the most powerful UV which is capable of destroying all sorts of germs and microorganisms. The wavelength of UVC is 100-280 nm. While making a purchase, check out the wavelength range and make sure that it falls between 100- 280 nm.

How Effective Are UV Lamps?

UV sterilization lamps (หลอด UVC ฆ่าเชื้อ, which is the term in Thai) are extremely useful in killing almost all sorts of germs including bacteria, virus, molds, yeasts, microbiota, etc. It is proven that UV with 254 nm can destroy all food pathogens. The effectiveness depends on the wavelength of the UV lamp that you are choosing. Also, as the sizes and shapes of the microorganisms differ, a high wavelength of UV is required.

Thus, the correct wavelength of the UV lamp is effective in killing microorganisms and sterilizing them.

How Does It Work?

The working procedure of destroying germs is simple. The UV ray breaks down all the DNA, RNA, and proteins destroying the structure of the microorganism and preventing them from multiplying. Thus, the reproduction process is interrupted and the infection can no longer spread.

However, the distance of the lamp from the microorganism is a factor that determines how the microorganisms can be damaged.

PROS

• UV lamps can effectively destroy germs without using any chemicals and are super convenient to use.
• All kinds of microorganisms are destroyed with UV lamps.

CONS

• However, UVC is extremely harmful to the human body. Thus protective shields are used. Avoid direct exposure to UVC.
• UV light should not be blocked with objects. Only direct exposure to the UVC would kill the microorganisms effectively.