What kind of UV light to kill bacteria?

What kind of UV light to kill bacteria?

Killing bacteria with UV light requires the use of germicidal wavelengths of 185-254 nanometers (nm).

Is the UV light harmful to the human body?

“Far-UVC light has a very limited range and cannot penetrate through the outer dead-cell layer of human skin or the tear layer in the eye, so it’s not a human health hazard,” Dr. Brenner noted. “But because viruses and bacteria are much smaller than human cells, far-UVC light can reach their DNA and kill them.”

How much UV light do you need to kill E coli?

For the average home owner, the target pathogens typically require low UV dosages to be eradicated. As an example, E coli requires a UV dose of 6 mJ/cm² for a 4-log or 99.99% kill. Currently, you can find equipment on the market with one of three different UV dose levels: 16, 30, or 40 mJ/cm².

How does ultraviolet ( UV ) damage affect bacterial cells?

UV causes breaks in bacterial DNA, which in turn cause the bacterial SOS response, which stops many cellular activities and up-regulates DNA repair enzymes. If the UV damage is minimal the cells can recover when they enter more friendly environments, but if the damage is significant they will never reproduce again.

Can you use UV light to kill bacteria?

UV Filtration – Sterilization light to kill harmful bacteria. And keep in mind that many people cannot use this method, without first filtering and softening the water due to “Shielding” concerns. In addition, beware of companies who will let you add this UV technology when you have hard water.

What kind of Light kills viruses and bacteria?

UVC light is part of the ultraviolet light spectrum and emits a high frequency of UV light that makes it extremely effective at killing bacteria, viruses, mold and other pathogens.

For the average home owner, the target pathogens typically require low UV dosages to be eradicated. As an example, E coli requires a UV dose of 6 mJ/cm² for a 4-log or 99.99% kill. Currently, you can find equipment on the market with one of three different UV dose levels: 16, 30, or 40 mJ/cm².

How does UV light kill beneficial bacteria in a pond?

The bacteria must pass directly in front of the UV lights or they aren’t affected. Most filters pull water in so a constant flow is passing beneath the lights. Any bacteria floating freely in the pond water are eventually exposed to the UV wavelengths and destroyed.