Why disinfects ultraviolet?
All microorganisms contain, among other things, nucleic acid (the DNA and RNA), which contains the genetic information of the cell. Because the nucleic acids absorb the incident radiation energy, a photochemical process is triggered which damages the reproduction apparatus of microorganisms and inactivates germs. This takes place, among other things, via a frequently occurring “dimer bond” of the thymine building blocks. This happens in a fraction of a second..
No resistance against UV possible!
Popularly said: bacteria, viruses, yeast and moulds have no chance against ultraviolet. Because additional resistance cannot be acquired according to scientific knowledge. Most pathogenic germs are even particularly sensitive to UV rays. This is an important advantage of physical disinfection, as it also works, for example, when germs have already acquired resistance to conventional disinfection measures (alcohol, antibiotics, etc.). At this point we would like to point out the MRSA problem, with which many medical facilities have reached the limits of the disinfection and prevention measures practiced so far.
This circumstance of physical disinfection works for all microorganisms, no matter whether it is about frequently occurring E.Coli bacteria, vecal germs, TBC, SARS, anthrax or legionella. However, a sufficient UV dose is essential – and requires appropriate equipment development.
No confusion with gamma- and X-rays
As invisible radiation, sunlight also contains ultraviolet and this, like visible light, only works on the surface. Therefore it is also called “soft” radiation. In contrast, there are many short-wave emitters (below 100 nm), such as “hard” X-rays and gamma rays. “Hard” because they can penetrate solid matter and cause severe damage to the human organism. This is impossible with ultraviolet. For this reason there can be no confusion or comparison.