Shining light on the front lines of pathogen eradication

Far UV is a light that refers to a separate wavelength band in the ultraviolet spectrum at 222 nanometers. It targets the nitrogenous bases in the DNA of the pathogen and structural parts that have higher absorbance for this wavelength. The higher energy photons can either break bonds in these bases or change bond links preventing the organism from replicating. Far UV will break the peptide bonds or the disulfide bonds in the microorganism’s structure proteins that will further assist in killing the microorganism in less than one second.

Far UV, while in use, is a light that continuously disinfects air and surfaces from viruses, bacteria, and fungi in occupied spaces. This is essential for the prevention of the emerging threats such as of COVID-19, Influenza and other infectious diseases in which potentially infected humans.  Far-UV is another layer of protection along with effective diagnostics, vaccines, and therapies, the elimination of pathogens in occupied spaces is a critical element for the eradication of disease. Far-UV technology is an essential and highly effective addition to existing sanitation practices, as part of a multi layered approach to prevention of the spread of existing and emerging infectious diseases.

Far-UV is safe and effective in killing bacteria, viruses, mold or fungi. We are not aware of any pathogen that Far-UV light has not been able to successfully kill. Efficacy data is available specifically assessing 222nm Far-UV light against organisms such as foodborne illnesses caused by E. coli and Salmonella, hospital-acquired infections (HAI) caused by Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) or C. diff, influenza A (H1N1), adenoviruses, and coronaviruses including SARS-CoV-2 (the pathogen that causes COVID-19). The rapidly growing list is available upon request and will be published soon by the International Ultraviolet Association (IUVA).

Far-UV is at least 10-1,000 times less harmful than the UVC radiation to both eyes and skin.  Conventional UVC can cause DNA damage to humans when absorbed into the skin and eyes. Far-UV is safe for humans and pets because it does not penetrate live skin tissue or into the tear layer of eyes.

Research has been conducted by companies on many types of surfaces such as plastics, steel, wood, paper, countertops, clothing, paint, and food.  Testing has shown that there was no significant material degradation.  Tests have been conducted on the effects of Far- UV light in the cockpits of aircraft and only minor discoloration of some plastics have been observed.