The history of UVC disinfection
The science behind UVC disinfection technology is long established, but its adoption around the world is less so common.
Experiments as early as 1878 first revealed the potential of short-wavelength light to sterilise bacteria. Since then further experiments established more conclusively that it is UVC light (100-280nm) in particular that can kill all microorganisms (bacteria, archaea, fungi, algae, protozoa, and viruses) if given appropriate levels of exposure.
During the 1970s UVC technology first emerged as a disinfection solution in the treatment of water in the US. Since then, its application as a safe and assured method of disinfection has grown to incorporate water, air and surfaces.
In light of the Covid-19 pandemic, governments and organisations around the world are now beginning to embrace UVC technology to assist in disinfecting public health facilities and combat transmission risk.
UVC OVER 150 YEARS
1878: Arthur Downes and Thomas P. Blunt publish a paper describing the sterilisation of bacteria when exposed to short-wavelength light
1930s: Scientific testing confirms the effects of UVC radiation on pathogens with the effect of ultraviolet radiation on DNA established in the 1960s
1970s: USA widely adopts technology for water treatment
1980s: Widely adopted by cruise ships for water treatment
1990s: Air and surface disinfection technology commercialised
2000s: Technology adapted and used in dentistry
2010s: Technology adapted for room sterilisation pre-Covid pandemic, but now being adopted for use in hospitals.
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