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Introduction of Ultraviolet

Ultraviolet rays have shorter wavelengths than visible light. A wavelength, the distance between the crests of two waves, is often measured in units called nanometers. A nanometer (nm) is a billionth of a meter, or about 1/25,000,000 inch. Wavelengths of visible light range from about 400 to 700 nm. Ultraviolet wavelengths range from about 1 to 400 nm and are beyond the range of visible light.

Ultraviolet rays with wavelengths shorter than 300 nm are extremely effective in killing bacteria and viruses. The most effective sterilizing range for UV is within the C bandwidth (UVC). This range is called the germicidal bandwidth. UVC has been used in hospitals for decades to sterilize surgical instruments, water, and the air in operating rooms. Many food and drug companies use germicidal

lamps to disinfect various types of products and their containers.
The cleaning mechanism of UV is a photochemical process. The contaminants that pollute our homes are almost entirely based upon organic or carbon-based compounds. These compounds breakdown when exposed to high intensity UV at 240 to 290 nm. Short-wave ultraviolet light can destroy DNA in living microorganisms and breakdown organic material found in indoor air. UVC's effectiveness is directly related to intensity and exposure time. 

UV rays must strike the contaminants directly in order to penetrate the microorganism and break down its molecular bonds. This bond breakage translates into cellular or genetic damage with the germs rendered harmless by robbing them of the ability to reproduce. 

 

Anthrax Sterilization with UV-C

Because of the recent threat of Anthrax and the numerous related deaths stemming from suspicious letters, American Ultraviolet Company has received many inquiries about the nature and effectiveness of UV-C.

Anthrax is a spore and can be reduced with the use of ultraviolet 254 lamps and fixtures. In fact, when used correctly, these UV-C fixtures will reduce up to 99% of airborne mold, bacteria and other microorganisms including Anthrax spores. 
However, to effectively minimize the danger using ultraviolet light, the Anthrax spores must not be mixed with any other substance. Additionally, the spores must come in direct contact with the UV light.

Ultraviolet fixtures housed within a building's air ducts would prove quite effective in destroying up to 99% of the threat posed by airborne Anthrax. However, UV light cannot penetrate surfaces and would, therefore, not be an effective countermeasure against Anthrax contained in a package or letter.

Ultraviolet Germicidal Irradiation