According to foreign media reports, researchers at Hiroshima University in Japan have proven that ultraviolet wavelengths that can be safely used around humans can also kill the new coronavirus. This newly published study shows for the first time that far ultraviolet (Far-UVC) with a wavelength of 222nm is particularly effective for SARS-CoV-2, not just for structurally similar coronaviruses.
It’s no secret that certain wavelengths of light can kill microorganisms. It’s like these lights are used in public baths and airplane tests to quickly “clean” surfaces. However, the wavelength of light commonly used in photo-sterilization is 254nm. Although this is useful for inactivating certain viruses, it is dangerous to human eyes and skin.
The risk to humans caused by this light restricts its use in public places during working hours. However, more and more evidence shows that the safer 222nm wavelength is also effective against many pathogens, and this light does not pose a threat to human vision and skin.
This latest study proves that Far-UVC light can effectively inactivate the SARS-CoV-2 virus that caused the pandemic, which makes Far-UVC light a promising solution for cleaning public surfaces. This kind of lighting system will be particularly useful for hospitals, where it is difficult to completely vacate a room for germicidal lamps.
Researchers said that it takes only 30 seconds to kill 99.7% of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Since light of this wavelength will not penetrate the protective layer of human tissues, it will not cause harm to human vision or skin, which makes it more attractive and safer than the commonly used 254nm sterilizing ultraviolet light.