Ultra Violet (UV) light is a naturally occurring and
has a shorter wavelength than visible light. The UV spectrum
is divided into A, B, C components. UV-A light tans the skin
while the shorter wavelength UV-B and UV-C light are dangerous
for biological materials. UV-C is the part from the UV spectrum
with the shortest wavelength. All bacteria and virus have their
DNA destroyed in a UV-C filter system.
UV light is used in fluorescent inspection processes to make
working life easier for quality control engineers, forensic scientists,
fire officers and auction houses to name but a few. Under UV
black light hairline cracks can be detected in aircraft structures,
automotive steering systems and many other critical components.
In the field of forensics UV black lights help unearth vital
evidence at crime scenes and plays an important role in identifying
the causes of fires. UV blacklights are used as a means of revealing
imperfections and evidences of restoration in art works, an important
aspect of authentication for valuation and sale.
The special effects industry uses UV to produce stunning visual
effects as if by magic. Festival tented environments use UV responsive
drapes, pop concerts use multi image 'trompe l'oeil' backdrops
illuminated by UV and night clubs use UV blacklights to make
white clothes glow in the dark.
Microbiologists are employing UV-C germicidal lamps within engineering
control measures to reduce infection caused by airborne transmission
of bacterial pathogens within closed environments. In addition,
some of the water we drink has been sterilized using UV-C light,
as well as a wide variety of food, drinks and medical supplies
packaging.
In recent years UV light curing of materials has emerged as perhaps
the most exciting and versatile material technology. These single
component, solvent-free material systems cure almost instantaneously
on exposure to UV light with efficient use of energy. They offer
unrivaled and unique process advantages in times of stringent
legislation changes restricting the use of many solvents. UV-A,
UV-B and UV-C light sources are employed depending upon the type
of material to be processed, IE: adhesives, resins, coatings
or inks..
Ultra Violet is subdivided into three distinct wavelengths
in increasing order of photon energy.
• UV-A 400nm-315nm: Often referred to as 'black light', this is the longest wavelength
region and lowest energy, it represents the largest portion of natural UV light.
• UV-B 315nm-280nm: Partially blocked by the ozone layer this is the most aggressive
component of natural UV light and largely responsible for sunburn (erythema).
• UV-C 280nm-100nm: Only generally encountered from artificial light sources
since
it is totally absorbed by the earth's atmosphere.
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view UV-C kill rates
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